Alpine FIS

SNSC creates a fun learning environment that challenges the athlete both physically and mentally. It is our desire and responsibility to instill sportsmanship as a foundation from which our athletes can build towards achieving their personal best.
TECHNICAL GOALS
Technical aspects will focus fundamental skills, and dynamic movement. The technical goals will differ for every athlete

COMPETITIONS
Racers will still attend some US Ski & Snowboard races in Vermont (VT Cup and GTS) and Eastern US throughout the year, but the main focus of racers on this team will be regional and national FIS races (Divisional FIS, Eastern Cup and Nor-Am).  FIS athletes should be prepared to travel anywhere in Eastern US and Canada on a regular basis. They may also have opportunities to travel to the Western US and Europe.

METHODOLOGY
The following provides overview highlights of the Program’s curriculum. Should a more detailed curriculum be desired, please contact the Head Coach.

• Conditioning: Summer and Fall training focusing on anaerobic endurance and strength.
• Freeskiing: As much as humanly possible. (15%-20% of on-snow time)
• Freeskiing drills: The early season will focus on Freeskiing Drills before we get into gates, then throughout the season as needed on an individual basis. We believe fundamental skills are important and must be a focus early in the season during these drill sessions.
• Gate drills: Will be used frequently throughout the season. (5%-10%)
• Speed skills: jumping, tucking, and gliding.
• Gate training: Will occur almost daily. (80%-85% on snow time)
• Video analysis: Will occur as needed. The athlete will watch video of themselves, however, the need for the athlete to develop the ability to feel their skiing, and not become dependent on video is critical.
• Mental skills training: Daily. Any athlete in any sport who wishes to be the best they can be needs to spend time with mental skill training. Imagery, focus, and especially attitude will be addressed daily.

Race Schedules / Rules / Entry Fees
Please visit: www.vara.org and www.ussa.org for all race schedules, rules, and entry fees.
Coaches’ Travel Expenses
Coaches’ travel expenses (room and meals) are to be shared equally by all athlete families attending any given race. Normally, single day trips to NVC races do not produce coaches travel expenses.

Communications/Questions
Questions regarding the program should be addressed first to the Coaches, then the Head Coach, and lastly the Executive Director. Updated information is available on SNSC website www.snscsvt.com, Facebook, and group emails are common pathways. General office questions can be directed to 644-1177.

Parent Involvement On-and-Off Hill:

• Parent orientation meeting and year end awards:
• Race days: There is always the need for a parent or two helping at races. Similarly, assistance transporting jackets and warm-ups from the race start to finish area is always appreciated.

       Other Expectations:      

• Athlete on-hill assistance requirements: If asked, all athletes are expected to assist coaches and staff in setting up, maintaining, and tearing down training courses.
• On-snow sessions in excess of applicable program: Should an athlete’s participation in on-snow sessions be in excess of the program days signed up for, then the athlete will be asked to re-register and pay for (on a pro-rated basis) the appropriate number of program days.

Athlete Expectations

• Have Fun!!!
• Try, do the best you can, it is all you can do
• Represent SNSC in the utmost manner at all times on and off skis (act appropriately and respectfully to all mountain staff, guests, and other mountain racers/coaches while a member of SNSC)
• Arrive on time for Training and Races, and be on snow or on the lift on time, when instructed by coach
• Inspect course thoroughly during training and races individually or with other athletes, discuss what you inspected with your coach before training or racing
• Be prepared for training sessions and Races (have all your equipment for all weather conditions with you at all times)
• Have proper equipment for training (race specific for race training, Freeski equipment for freeskiing)
• Have three pairs of skis minimum (at least one pair for Slalom (SL), at least one for Giant Slalom (GS), and a pair for freeskiing)
• Have the proper SL protection (Shin Guards, Pole Guards, chin bar)
• Have a proper GS helmet
• Respect your coaches – (don’t talk while they are talking unless you have a question)
• Listen to your coaches at all times
• Focus during drills or training
• Come to training and races with tuned and waxed skis (should be tuning and waxing your own skis)
• Use proper radio etiquette
• Watch ALL World Cup Ski Races
• Attend dryland training when not conflicting with other athletic activates
• Complete other off-season workouts as instructed by coach
• Play one or two other sports/athletic activities during the year

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
SL skis, GS skis, SG skis, (DH skis and some SG’s are loaned out for $40 from the club’s speed stock.) Helmets, protective gear (shin guards, pole guards, forearm guards)
Equipment preparation, maintenance. All athletes will be trained in race ski preparation, and they shall be responsible for maintaining their own equipment.