Development Team

Coaches: Callie Anderson, Christiana Reimertz, Nora Eammons, Tova Orth, additional coaches TBD

Welcome to the Development Team, a full-season adventure designed to give young skiers (ages 6-13) a thrilling introduction to the worlds of Alpine Ski Racing and Freeriding. This program is perfect for kids who are already confident on intermediate runs and are ready to take their skills to the next level in a fun, challenging, and supportive environment.

The program meets at 8:45 am uphill from the ski racks behind the Day Lodge. We ski from 8:45 am - 3 pm with an hour break for lunch at 11:30 am. The season begins with Christmas Camp December 27 and 28, 2024 The final day will be March 15th. Full training schedule coming soon!

What to Expect:

  • Racing & Freeride Basics: This is where it all begins! We’ll dive into the foundations of Alpine Ski Racing, teaching your child how to carve precise turns, navigate gates, and pick up speed while staying in control. Alongside racing techniques, they’ll also be introduced to Freeriding, learning how to handle more varied terrain like moguls, steeps, and off-piste challenges.

  • Skill Progression: Over the course of the season, young skiers will build their skills week-by-week. Coaches will focus on improving balance, edging, speed control, and dynamic movements, so participants can confidently tackle both groomed courses and more technical terrain.

  • Race Course Practice: Throughout the season, we’ll set up mini-race courses that allow participants to get a feel for real competition, working on racing lines, timing, and strategy—all while keeping things light-hearted and fun. It's not about winning, it’s about improving and pushing their limits!

  • Freeride Fun: We’ll explore different parts of the mountain, from wide-open bowls to bump runs and natural features, helping skiers develop the versatility needed to handle anything the mountain throws their way. Participants will work on line choice, terrain awareness, and confidence in varied snow conditions.

Program Highlights:

  • Weekly Training: Each session will be packed with exciting challenges, from navigating a slalom course to shredding down a bumpy run. Every week is a chance to push their abilities a little further, with professional guidance from expert coaches who know how to make learning fun.

  • Balanced Approach: The Development Team focuses on both racing and freeriding, giving young athletes the best of both worlds. Whether they want to carve gates like a pro or explore the mountain with style, this program covers it all!

  • Team Spirit: Skiing is more fun with friends! The Development Team fosters a sense of camaraderie, where participants encourage each other, share high-fives after a challenging run, and build lasting friendships.

Key Skills They’ll Learn:

  • Carving & Racing Technique: Learn to master the art of carving turns with precision and speed.

  • Terrain Mastery: Handle bumps, steeps, and variable conditions with confidence and flow.

  • Gate Running: Get the hang of navigating slalom and giant slalom courses.

  • Confidence Building: Develop the mental toughness to take on new challenges, both in racing and freeriding.

Program Perks:

  • Timed Fun Races: Skiers will participate in fun races where they can measure their progress and celebrate their personal achievements. Everyone gets the chance to feel the thrill of the race!

  • Coaching from Experts: Our professional coaches are skilled in both racing and freeriding, providing personalized feedback and tips to help each skier improve at their own pace.

  • Season Pass! The program includes a season pass valued at $25 for ages 6 - 8 and $379 for ages 9 - 13.

Program Tuition: $1,500*

*Tuition includes a season pass (valued at $25 ages 8 and under or $379 ages 9 - 13). It does not include race entry fees or travel.

Program registration is limited; please register now.

We are committed to providing each athlete with the most effective learning and skill development pathway. To ensure they have the best environment for success, please note that we may adjust group placements during the season as needed.

Development Team Requirements

Athletes must be between the ages of 6-11and be able to:

● Have previous formal or informal training

● Comfortably get on and off the lift without assistance

● Ski down a blue run in control (Such as Grouse or Cascade)

● Listen and follow directions from an adult

● Be separated from parents comfortably

● Manage equipment independently (Goggles, skis, boots, helmet, poles)

● Ski with poles

● Make large and small turns

Parent Requirements

● Make sure child has snacks in pockets

● Make sure your child has the appropriate gear on for the weather conditions

● Parents are encouraged to ski with their athletes at least twice before the devo season begins