Adventure • Leadership Camaraderie • Excellence
Improve your Fun-Derstanding at a Western Division education or certification event. See page 13 for this season’s Event Guide.
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President’s Message By Carl Underkoffler, PSIA/AASI-West President This past season was certainly an interesting year in the snowsports industry. Favorable snow conditions proved again that “snow trumps the economy” U. S. Skier/ Snowboarder visits set an all-time record of 60.54 million (National Ski Area Association) driven by an exceptionally strong late season. Indeed, nearly 50,000 visits were recorded on the Fourth of July! Certainly Western Division resorts contributed to those strong numbers. In the West we also saw a huge interest by new instructors in joining our profession. Over 775 new members joined our Division last season, bringing the our total membership to 3315. There are many factors The Edge is a publication of the The that led to this Western Division of Professional Ski increase, including Instructors of America (PSIA-W) and changing Visa laws the American Association of Snowfor visiting instrucboard Instructors (AASI-W) covering tors, as well as ecoCalifornia and Nevada. We are one nomic conditions of nine divisions that make up the that have made our American Snowsports Education profession look a lot Association (ASEA). more attractive. PSIA was founded in 1961 to To these new develop a standardized system members we give for teaching and to unify instruca hearty welcome. tors throughout the country in the While we are all disciplines of: Alpine, Nordic, Snowaware of the chalboarding, Adaptive. lenges of earning a living as a ski or The Edge is published two times snowboard instrucannually. The opinions expressed tor, we also get in this publication are those of the to experience the authors, and are not the policies ‘psychic income’ and opinions of PSIA/AASI of early morning Western Division. corduroy, private powder stashes and For advertising submissions and those last runs of information, contact our office: the day as the sun is PSIA/AASI Western Division setting. Our ‘office’ 9709 Highway 267, Suite B, is never the same Truckee, CA. 96161 two days in a row. phone (530) 587-7642 The challenge to fax (530) 587-4273 think on our feet admin@psia-w.org and adjust lesson For all membership inquiries, check plans to match the out our website at www.psia-w.org variety of students or contact our office for additional we experience is exinformation. tremely rewarding.
edge
Cover photo: PSIAW Tech Team member Kim Mann. Photo by Terry Peters.
With you, our new and returning members firmly in mind, we are constantly striving to earn your membership dollars. Western Division’s dues remain the lowest in the country at $ 35 a year (National Dues is currently $50 for a total of $85). I hope you have all had a chance to visit the new website, www. psia-w.org. This will continue to be the main portal for conducting your business with the division and we hope that the improvements will make a difference. Our office staff strives to provide the services you desire (including this publication) at the lowest possible cost. We are always looking for ways to provide new benefits to our membership. Check out the PSIA West deal with the Calstar air ambulance service, only $ 30 a year. Our members who venture into the backcountry will certainly recognize the value there. For our members who like to attend a lot of our education events, we have simplified our “Season Pass” program. Go to three education events and the next one is FREE. No pre-planning or special form is needed, once you have completed the three events, just call the office and ask for your free one. (See page 6 for complete details.). For a complete list of the benefits of membership, including discounts at resorts, promo offers on equipment and Choice Hotels discounts, visit www. psia-w.org and click on ‘Benefits’. Financially the division is healthy and we carry a reserve sufficient to overcome potential lean times. Our annual report is also available for viewing on the website. On behalf of our hard working Board, I would like to thank you all for your faith in us. We hope to see you at one of our events this season. To get the details, just keep reading.
Carl
President Underkoffler (far left standing) hard at work at the April membership meeting in Mammoth.
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Benefits of Membership PSIA/AASI Certification is recognized nationally and internationally by snowsports school directors and resorts. We have over 50 years experience providing premier education events, customized training, and certification standards for over 30,000 instructors located in nine divisions from Alaska to the East Coast. National Benefits: • 32 Degrees – The Journal of Professional Snowsports Instruction contains cutting edge articles on technique, teaching, and keeping you in touch with the rest of the industry. •
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Movement Matrix – A giant online video library that covers everything from certification standards to tailoring your technique based on terrain and snow conditions. Online Forum – So you can stay in touch with the other 30,000 members sharing the same passion for snowsports.
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Technical & Teaching Manuals – Specifically customized for instructors to help prepare you for everything from teaching levels 1-9 to certification and beyond.
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National Academy / Rider’s Rally – Premier events that feature extensive curriculum designed to keep pace with the rapidly changing snowsport industry. Special on and off-hill seminars with an assortment of guest speakers.
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Exclusive Equipment & Gear Offers – Available from 40+ Suppliers across the country.
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Accessories Catalog – Accessible online and sent to you annually this catalog contains a listing of all the professional
deals, manuals, educational resources, and an assortment of customized clothing with our PSIA/AASI logos. •
Subaru VIP Program - if you need a new vehicle this offer has a potential savings that would cover more than 30 years of membership dues at current prices.
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GAP – Accidental medical and professional liability insurance.
Western Division Benefits: • The Edge – The Journal of Western Snowsports Instruction keeping you p to speed with what’s happening in our division! •
Discount Resort Tickets – Available at most resorts throughout the Western division.
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Professional discounts – Available from regional and national reps on most major brands and suppliers.
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Online Education Materials & Certification Guides – Customized materials to prepare for certification events and general education resources in 4 disciplines.
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Certification - in Alpine, Adaptive, Nordic and Snowboard disciplines.
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Accreditations – in specialty areas such as Freestyle, Children’s, and Seniors.
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Instructor Training & Continuing Education – led by some of our countries finest skiers, riders, and teachers. Our division offers over 150 events throughout the season.
PSIA/AASI members get great deals on top gear and clothing. Photo courtesy of Terry Peters.
National dues increasing next summer. To continue to provide these benefits and deliver value to our members, the National Association is implementing an $11 dues increase for 2012/13. Western Division members currently pay dues of $85 of which $50 is the National Dues component.
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Membership Voices in Motion By Heidi Ettlinger - Publicity & Advisory Chair This season the Publicity and Advisory Committee will launch a Public & Industry Relations campaign driven by concerns raised at the April 2011 General Membership Meeting. Members requested the association expand its role in the recruitment and retention of our guests, promote our profession including helping guests recognize and understand our logos, and to collectively increase our efforts to improve beginner retention. The three strategic steps we have planned include presenting at the largest snowsport festivals throughout California including the Sacramento and Los Angeles Ski Dazzle events and SnowJam in San Diego. We hope to connect in person with thousands of snowsport enthusiasts and increase their awareness of professional instruction. In January we will provide regional support to resorts participating in “Learn a Snowsport Month” and throughout the year we will build a contact network with California/Nevada
associations and clubs that promote snowsports to gain opportunities for presenting more information about our association, professional instruction, and membership. Listed below are links to partners of PSIA/AASI that support growing the snowsport industry, increasing the exposure of professional snowsport instructors, and promoting the Go With A Pro campaign. Our national and divisional organizations work closely with these programs and recognize the importance of tackling these complex issues.
Please take the time to familiarize yourself with these resources. 1. The Model for Growth: http://www.nsaa.org/nsaa/marketing/Model-For-Growth.asp “In May 2000, The Model for Growth was introduced as a method for critically analyzing the future of the ski/snowboard industry. You’ll recall that the initial value of the Model was its ability to identify and quantify the impacts of various obstacles that needed to be overcome to grow the sport-unfavorable demographic trends, time poverty, increased alternative leisure activities and an overweight population. Companies have responded by developing a variety of ‘hardware’ methods to combat these issues: stateof-the-art learning centers, ticket, lesson and equipment deals, increased attention to beginner equipment, and employee incentives.” Retrieved from: nsaa.org
Date: Jan. 29-31, 2012 Location: Squaw Valley Questions on agenda, lodging, special requests: Contact Heidi Ettlinger at heidiettlinger@yahoo.com
2. The Conversion Cup Challenge: http://www.nsaa.org/nsaa/ press/1011/conversion-finalists. asp “NSAA is calling on all member ski areas to convert, convert, convert! With this, NSAA has developed the Conversion Cup Challenge, a friendly competition among member ski areas that more closely aligns with the industry’s goals outlined in the Growth Model. What is conversion? Conversion is simply the process of turning beginner skiers and riders into repeat customers, and ultimately lifelong enthusiasts of the sport. As outlined in NSAA’s Growth Model, conversion is not a short-term process but rather a long-term transformation. Yet the current demographics make it clear: Time is not on the industry’s side. Research shows that if we do not improve conversion rates, our overall visitation figures could decrease by 2.5 percent per season. Following this scenario, by the 2020/21 season, our total skier and snowboarder visits could be just above 40 million, a level that hasn’t been realized since the dismal 1980/81 season. With this, NSAA’s newly created Conversion Cup Challenge is designed as a fun way to pique competition among member ski areas and recognize those who make significant efforts to boost skier and snowboarder conversion rates.” Retrieved from: nsaa.org
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Voices in Motion (cont’d) 3. Winter Feels Good Campaign: http://www.snowlink.com/winterfeelsgoodhomepage.aspx “WFG is a public awareness campaign that promotes the health, fitness and social aspects – and benefits – of snow sports participation. It combines media relations with community outreach to increase participation in snow sports and to address the lack of physical activity in the United States, particularly among youth. By highlighting the health, fitness and social benefits of snow sports, WFG moves beyond traditional industry marketing efforts. It educates and inspires youth through key influencers, including teachers and parents, and through creative connections with education, community and government groups.” Retrieved from: snowlink.com
4. Snowsports Industries America: http://www.snowsports.org/SuppliersServiceProviders/ResearchSurveys/SnowSportsMarketIntelligenceReport/ “The Snow Sports Market Intelligence Report is the most comprehensive report on snow sports sales, participation, and overall trends available in the snow sports market. It
gives an unprecedented quantitative review of the most recent snow sports season-everything from detailed retail data in all product categories listed below, to the number of persons in the U.S. who participate in each snow sports discipline.” Retrieved from snowsports.org
5. Interski 2011: http://make.tv/pressezone/ show/63296 2011 Interski lecture from Sweden on “What differs the best instructors from the good.” This keynote lecture covers incredible information on how to move away from a predefined progression and embrace the will-skill-hill approach. It highlights how to incorporate the knowledge of senior instructors and package the essential skills needed by new instructors http://make.tv/pressezone/show/63299 2011 Interski lecture from Canada on: “The Re-socialization of the North American Ski Experience.” This keynote lecture is a comprehensive overview of how resorts can capitalize on increasing their revenue while improving the guest experience. It covers a historical perspective of overall participation and the value of snowsport instructors up through modern times. 6. PSIA-W Publicity & Advisory Chair: heidiettlinger@yahoo.com Please feel free to contact me for more detailed information on our national public relations, industry relations, consumer promotion, divisional initiatives, and gearingto.com a program developed to specifically address beginner retention.
7. 32 Degrees, The Journal of Professional Snowsports Instruction Spring 2011 Enhanced Services, Programs Drive PSIA-AASI Prosperity by Ed Younglove, PSIA-AASI Treasurer, pages 64-65. Remember, as an instructor you will spend the longest period of time with the guest over any other employee at the resort, including all other industry associates. You will have the opportunity to request the beginners, escort someone back to the rental shop for a better boot fit, or simply to time a break at the most scenic area of your resort. David Ingemie, the president of Snowsport Industries America was recently quoted by SNEWS as saying, “For this season, all indications on preseason sales are good. From firsthand experience, I can’t believe how much new stuff is walking out the door. Also that it is happening this early in the year. I think people are pumped with excitement for freeskiing, and also for snowboarding again. And there’s definitely a better understanding of the need to update your equipment. I was on the golf course with a woman who found out I work in the industry and she said she just bought a new pair of skis and boots. She said, “I switch my skis every three years.” And the conversation I keep hearing is how people can’t wait to get on the hill.” Clearly there’s an opportunity to maximize this wave of enthusiasm and that should be what we do best! If you would like to volunteer for taskforce and committee work on a national or divisional level please go to education@thesnowpros.org along with making your interests known to the Western committee chairs and the board at http://psia-w.org/about/ organization-chart-contact-us/.
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Heritage
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By Ted Pitcher Nic Fiore Award 2012
Nic Fiore
The Heritage Committee is pleased to announce that nominations for the 2012 Nic Fiore Award are now open. Our congratulations go out to all the nominees for the inaugural Nic Fiore Award last spring. As one of the selectors, I was impressed with the years of dedicated service that all the nominees have given to the membership and their respective ski schools. The Heritage committee selected Ernie Gray for the award. As part of the award, we prepared a DVD presentation for the banquet. The first part included a history of Nic’s contributions to PSIA/AASI-W. The second part was a history of Ernie’s contributions. We had twenty five copies of the DVD available for the membership. Many of the folks that picked up a copy of the DVD made a voluntary contribution to the scholarship fund. On behalf of our members that will benefit from your generosity, thank you. Nic served our Division from its very inception over 50 years ago. He donated countless hours of his time over decades to help build PSIA/AASI-W into the organization it is today.
The Nic Fiore Award is designed to recognize a long time, hard working member who has given much service to many Division members, but whose work may not be that well known to our general Membership. Unlike the honorary Membership Award that is bestowed by the Board of Directors, the Nic Fiore Award is a “grass roots” award. Nominations for this award will come from you, the Members. If you know a member that you would like to nominate for the Nic Fiore Award, tell us why. Please submit your nomination in writing, 1000 words or less to the PSIA/AASI-W Office by February 15th (see the back panel of this publication for email/ mailing information.). Give us the history, background and service that your “unsung hero” has performed for PSIA/AASI-W over the years and tell us why you feel they should be recognized. The Heritage/Senior Committee will review all submissions and announce the recipient of the Nic Fiore Award. So come on Nordic, Tele, Snowboard, Adaptive and Alpine instructors. This is a great opportunity for you to help our Division to recognize the hard work and services of our unsung heroes. Send in your nominations now!
Ted Pitcher
New Discount... for clinic junkies!!
New this year we are offering a simpler way of rewarding our members who attend multiple education events. Buy three, get one free. That’s all there is to it. Once you have paid for and attended 3 education events in a season, simply call or email our office and we will sign you up for a fourth at no charge. If you want more, buy three more, get another on free, etc. Fine print: applies to any education event of our calendar (including Mini-Academy with the National D-team). Does not apply to Spring Convention, Accreditations or exams.
To request your free Education event, email events@psia-w.org or call (530) 587-7642.
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By Dan Stormer
Adaptive
Marcus Haile Memorial Adaptive Scholarship Available this Season Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Instructors will now have a new financial resource for support in their quest for training and certification. The Marcus Haile Memorial Adaptive Scholarship will award scholarships to support training in Adaptive snowsports and will be available to all adaptive instructors in PSIA/AASI-W. Marcus and Lynne Haile and their two children, Cavan and Marta have been instrumental in the development of Adaptive snowsports in Southern California. Marcus passed away this past Spring and is greatly missed by family and friends. While never a paid or certified Adaptive instructor, Marcus’ contributions can be measured in the accomplishments of the entire Haile family. Lynne Haile has directed the Adaptive program at Mt High for over 30 years. She started the Pierce College Disabled Ski Program in 1976 through the school’s Physical Education Department. Each weekend a bus would leave from Pierce College in Los Angeles and head to Mountain High with on average ten Adaptive skiers and about thirty instructors/guides. The instructors were primarily students who received college credit for participation. The Pierce College Program was one of the original Adaptive programs and was recognized by PSIA. Many of the guides and instructors have continued and become certified. In addition to Lynne, one of her students from Pierce still teaches in Mt High’s Adaptive program. Lynne retired from Pierce College in 1998 and moved the Adaptive Program completely to Mt High. From the time it came to Mt High to the present, the
Program, under Lynne’s direction, has expanded both facilities and staff with many PSIA/AASI trained and certified instructors. Mountain High has also been a leader in integrating snowboarding into the Adaptive realm. Growing up in this environment, it was inevitable that Lynne and Marcus’ children would become involved in teaching Adaptive students. Marta worked for seven years teaching Adaptive skiing through the Mountain High Adaptive Program, then, went on to work at Breckenridge, and Alpine Meadows. Three of those years she was the Women’s Program Coordinator and a Snowsports School Supervisor for Alpine Meadows. She has since gone on to work in Occupational Therapy in which she helps people with disabilities in a variety of settings. Marta has been a member of PSIA for over twenty years and is Level III Certified. Similarly, Cavan has taught Alpine skiing at Breckenridge, Alpine Meadows and Keystone, as well as Adaptive at Mountain High and Arizona Ski Bowl. He is Alpine Level III Certified, as well as certified in Snowboard Instruction. He has competed in both Freestyle and Extreme Skiing. Lynne holds an Adaptive Level II Certification, Alpine Level II Certification, and Seniors Level II Certification. She has worked on the Adaptive Tech Team and was on the Adaptive Committee for many years. For those who knew him, it is not surprising that Marcus’ support allowed Adaptive snowsports to greatly benefit from the incredible talents of this family. This Scholarship will keep alive the memory of this wonderful
Lynne & Marcus Haile
man and recognize the benefits Adaptive Skiing and Snowboarding has received from his support. Each year several scholarships will be given out in the name of Marcus Haile for instructors who desire to further their knowledge, training, and/or certifications. For those people seeking information, please contact Lynne Haile at Mountain High, (760) 316-7861. Scholarships for training events will become available this season. As this is the first year, an application form is being developed and will be available at the start of the season.
Dan Stormer Dan is an instructor and trainer at Mountain High. He is on the Adaptive Tech Team and is Adaptive L3 Certified, as well as Alpine L2, Seniors L2 and Children’s L2.
Marcus and Lynne Haile and their two children, Cavan and Marta have been instrumental in the development of Adaptive snowsports in Southern California. Marcus passed away this past Spring and is greatly missed by family and friends.
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Nordic Skiing, the Original Snow Sport By Aaron Pearlman Recently, when I was out Telemark skiing, a young snowboarder asked me, “Dude, when was that “new type” of Free Heel skiing invented, and why?” As a lifelong winter sport enthusiast, imagine my surprise to his question. Well, I thank this young snow rider for the inspiration to write a brief article about the evolution of snow sports and also to encourage some of you strictly downhill riders to get out there
This pictograph drawing in Norway dates back to 2500 BC.
During this early epoch of skiing, bindings were used to secure the toe, or ball of the foot to the ski and leather straps were used to center the heel however no attempt was made to hold the heel down. This allowed the skier to stride uphill as well as to ski downhill. held in Plumas County, CA. During this early epoch of skiing, bindings were used to secure the toe, or ball of the foot to the ski and leather straps were used to center the heel however no attempt was made to hold the heel down. This allowed the skier to stride uphill as well as to ski downhill. In about 1920, the Open Christie, named after the Norwegian village of Christiania, evolves as a downhill turning technique which succeeded the Telemark turn. Along came the invention of the ski lift and no longer was it necessary to ski uphill in order to get a downhill run. With dedicated down-hill
and try some Nordic Skiing, the original winter sport. “If you don’t know your past, you don’t know your future”. Ziggy Marley The roots of skiing date back as far as 5,000 years or more with archeological finds dating to 4,500 years old from Sweden. A pictograph drawing at Rodoy, Norway depicting a skier on the hunt dates back to 2500 BC and the famous Hoting Ski was unearthed from a peat bog near Hoting, Sweden and carbon dated to at least 2,500 years old. Skiing back then was utilitarian in nature, used for locomotion over snow covered terrain unlike the recreational sports of today. Downhill skiing and ski jumping became popular first in the 1850s with the influence of Sondre Nordheim who lived in Telemark, Norway. Sondre also developed skis with side-cut for turning and thus began an era of Telemark downhill skiing. This was a change from the traditional method of turning at the time which was to carry a single large staff and drag it in the snow on one side in order to create enough drag to turn the skis. From here, skiing evolved rapidly and many downhill skiing techniques were established. In 1856, a Norwegian named John “Snowshoe” Thompson delivered mail across the Sierra Mountains between Placerville and Genoa on 10-foot long skis which he called Norwegian The 21st century has brought only minor changes in Snowshoes. In 1870 a downhill ski race was Telemark ski fashion.
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By Aaron Pearlman
Snowshoe Thompson ripping it up in the Sierra Backcountry. Reprinted courtesy of the Western SkiSport Museum.
skiing and increased speeds, it was no longer important to have a free-heel to stride uphill so heel retention systems were created. It wasn’t until 1935, only about 75 years ago, when the Kandahar Cable Binding was invented, which used a cable and clip system to keep the heel down on the ski. Perhaps some of you can remember when we were skiing on some of the relics that you see hanging around on the walls of ski lodges or log cabins or shredding our gloves on rope toes or getting dragged by T-bars. It was not that long ago when we were freezing our fingers off, trying to lace up the double leather boots and then snapping down the “Bear Trap” bindings on wooden skis. I recently mounted my first pair of wooden skis and leather boots on the wall of my own home for decoration. Within a reasonable margin of error, snowboarding was introduced in the 1970’s-80’s and did not gain popularity or become legal at most ski areas until the 1990’s. Hence to say in terms of winter recreation, snowboarding is brand new. As a winter recreation enthusiast, I have enjoyed many varieties of snow sports. I am not embarrassed to report I even managed a small fleet of snow bikes for rental. Even they are fun to ride if your friends don’t see you. But as I became accomplished at many winter sports, Nordic skiing continued to challenge me. Nordic skiing, in my opinion, is the most skillful and challenging way to navigate snow. “Try it with half a binding.” With recent advances in skiing technology more people are being drawn into the Nordic sports. Boots
Nordic Skiing (cont’d)
with greater support, bindings that offer more control, lighter equipment and specialty skis (ie: greater sidecut, powder, park-pipe, etc.) are all making it easier to enjoy the sport. I meet many new parents who are utilizing Tele gear for a greater personal challenge while skiing the green runs with the youngsters. So, if you are looking for a fun challenge or a break from your profession on snow, try Nordic Skiing and take a step back in time to the roots of skiing. There is a whole world out there for you to experience. Whether you’re exploring a nearby Cross Country trail system on Skating or Striding equipment, going back country touring or winter camping, bagging a killer backcountry peak with skins and Tele bindings or trying your first Telemark turns at your home resort, Nordic skiing is a whole lot of fun and a great challenge for anyone who has passion for winter sports, “Free your heel and . . .”
Aaron Pearlman Telemark Director PSIA-W
Snowshoe Thompson. Reprinted courtesy of the Western SkiSport Museum.
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Extension, A Critical Component of L3 Skiing By Mark Spieler When I ask most Instructors or exam candidates “Why do we extend?” I usually get answers like, “to change edges” or “it makes it easier to move into the turn” or “an extension flattens the skis.” While accurate, these answers miss the most important advantage. Extension moves the hips forward and up over the feet to re-center a skier’s balance. Although most instructors instinctively extend to start most turns, if you can learn to make this move effectively you will see improvements in the ski/snow interaction that a strong and well placed extension can provide. Alternatively, lack of a proper extension severely limits a skier’s ability to show proper skiing movements and is a tough weakness to overcome in an exam format. In order to extend effectively you need to start at the end of the old turn, completing the turn in a correct fore/aft position over the foot and in an adequately countered position to create a platform from which to move actively into the new turn.
With the advent of the shaped ski, many Instructors explored finishing the turn in a more “square”, (facing the ski tips), type of position. This put us into a stronger position to resist the downward forces we feel in medium and longer turns and allowed us to more easily “activate” the inside half of our bodies to complement the turn completion. Unfortunately, but not unexpectedly, many skiers have taken this a bit too far resulting in an undisciplined or even over rotated upper body and inside half, effectively weakening our ability to balance over the old outside ski and move into the new turn. To move forward into the new turn you must finish the old turn in a place on your foot where you can move back to the front of the ski without too much effort. At the end of the turn I move to a position on my foot anywhere from the forward to middle of my arch depending upon the turn radius, speed, snow condition and steepness. Where this place is for you, however, depends on your body type, your attempts to either absorb or create pressure and also your boot/ski set up. In terms of lateral balance, be aware of the position of your inside hand and hip as you complete your turns. Try to feel a slight but progressive advancement of your inside hand/hip Mike Hafer Showing a strong inside half, setting himself up for a strong initiation into forward and the new turn. Photo courtesy of Terry Peters.
down the hill through the very end of your turn (relative to the turn size, pitch, speed and snow conditions). This should make it relatively easy to create a strong platform on the outside ski with good edge bite all the way through the turn finish. You know you are good if you can lift the inside ski and balance solely on the outside foot. In other words don’t’ lose your countered position! Neither should you over exaggerate your counter resulting in a loss of shin contact with the front of your inside boot or an upper body over countered down the hill. From a correctly countered position at the end of the old turn you can then use an extension of your legs with an emphasis on your new outside leg to re-center yourself as you move forward into the new turn. It is very important to smoothly and evenly extend all of your joints from the foot/ankle (plantar flexion) through the knee to your hip. This strong, even extension gives you the ability to correctly perform tasks like hop turns, leapers, skating etc., allows you to maintain ski tip/snow contact in bumps and make dynamic pressuring movements in more carved turns. This move is similar to a full running step. In skiing there is a refined lateral component making this more like a running step as you would execute while changing direction. So your foot is rolling as you extend through it, (from the little toe side to the big toe side) completing the extension somewhere on the ball of your foot or possibly even your big toe. You know you have moved forward enough when you can feel the new outside ski tip engaging on its own and moving in the direction of your new turn with only a slight rotational guiding from
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By Mark Spieler
your foot and leg, (like your big toe pushing on the side of the boot). You may be surprised at how far forward you end up on your foot to make this happen. It may very well feel like you are briefly on your toes as you complete your turn initiation in more dynamic situations. Practice a form of this movement in all of your demos from the Wedge turn on up through Dynamic Short and Medium Radius turns. It is a big part of doing your demonstrations correctly. An extension originating in the foot and ankle sets you up to use leg rotation as your main turning power, allows you to use your lower legs to engage and release your skis and will enhance a tall stance with a correct range of motion to your flexion as the turn progresses. You will use all of these movements more dramatically as you ski or demonstrate at higher speeds and with increased edge angles. By moving forward while rolling and extending the foot and ankle to the ball of the foot, or even the big toe in more carved and dynamic turns, the skier can actively pressure the front of the ski to create strong edge engagement during the first half of the turn. This allows for speed control and shaping of the top of the turn, a critical component of Level 3 skiing. Don’t forget about your inside foot! Mimic the movement of your outside foot/ankle during the turn initiation. It will be easier to maintain balance and turn both legs if you maintain good contact on the front of the new inside boot. Learning to ski on one ski allows you to focus on proper inside ski/ankle position while turning on the outside edge of the single ski. Lack of proper extension is a tough weakness to overcome in an exam format. For example, one of the most common errors observed in Hop Turn performance during
Extension (cont’d)
Level 3 Skiing Modules is a weak Sports in Reno (and a member of extension coming primarily from our Alpine Tech Team) may be well the hips and knees, (as opposed to worth the time and cost to improve all the way through the ankle and your stance. I may also make you toes). The skier that understands a better instructor as you learn to how to extend through the whole spot alignment problems with your leg is the one who likely be able students. to perform exam tasks correctly as This movement pattern is the Skiing Module progresses. nothing new. In fact it is as old It is vitally important that as as the hills. I remember Dave you extend you maintain balance Mannetter teaching me how this over the outside ski. It is impossiworked, on straight skis, back in ble to pressure that ski early in the 1994! (not that you’re as old as the turn if you are not balanced. Avoid hills, Dave!). It is just good solid lengthening the entire outside of ski technique. Nothing fancy but your body with the new outside effective. And a great movement leg. As you extend your legs your pattern to own! new outside hand should stay relatively stable and move forward as opposed to be being thrown higher. Allowing your new outside hand to lift too high will tip your shoulders into the new turn, taking pressure off of the new outside ski tip. To feel the full effect this movement can have on your skiing it is necessary Notice how both of Mike’s skis are at the same angle, because he has good contact to be properly on the inside boot. Photo courtesy of Terry Peters. aligned in your boots and skis both laterally and in terms of your boot ramp angle, binding delta and forward lean. You need to able to pressure your whole ski in a balanced but not overly flexed position at the finish of the turn and then be able to extend toward the front of your ski without excessive movement. If you think you have any issues here, an alignment expert like Bud Heishman at Snowind
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You Can Be an Athlete This Winter By Chris Fellows, Director NASTC As director of the North American Ski Training Center and father of 3 active kids, I don’t have large chunks of time to spend in the gym. Sound familiar? We all suffer from not having enough time in the day! However my skiing performance and fitness is important to me. By staying healthy and fit through out the season, I can provide my clients with solid skiing instruction and demonstrations and I can keep the wheels from coming off the cart midseason due to overuse injuries, bad alignment, or illness due to lack of recovery time. Thanks in advance for reading. The following tips keep me moving athletically throughout the ski season, and help prevent injury. 1. Exercise fads come and go, make a commitment to keep fit and make exercise a part of your daily routine. 2. Posture good or bad can effect your athleticism, pay attention to your sitting, standing, walking and exercising posture. Poor posture will result in poor performance. Good posture will help you perform like an athlete. 3. Focus on a strong core for stability and flexible hips for skiing mobility. Limited range of movement and weak core muscles can over stress connective tissue. This will limit your performance and body durability. 4. Change up your work out intensity. Mix up your high intensity days with low intensity days and don’t skimp on the sleep for total body recovery. 5. Ski athletes focus on total body work outs. The best weight training program for ski athletes is NOT the muscle specific routines of bodybuilders, but instead sessions that work out the whole body. 6. Keep you aerobic engine active through out the winter. You aerobic levels will slowly dwindle if
you forget to get a run in, XC ski or backcountry climb regularly. Your aerobic fitness is the furnace that fires your athletic abilities, without it you are running on fumes. 7. In the winter cold weather tells your body to pack on fat for survival Don’t let it go too far. Eat fresh vegetables and fruits and don’t over do the carbo heavy foods. Diabetes runs in my family and I saw the damaging effects of the disease. From a young age I have tried to eat healthy and exercise regularly. 8. The biggest technological breakthroughs in sports in the next decade will include advancements in human performance through food. This will come in the form of body enhancement foods or super foods. Like the tobacco industry 15 years ago the food industry will be under the microscope over the next 20 years and will be expected to clean up its act. Athletes are ahead of the game and are adjusting their diets to exclude starches, sugars, industrial
additives, pesticides and dyes. Athletes diets are rich in nutrients and proteins, like raw locally grown fruits and vegetables, nut, whole grains, yogurt and smaller portions of meat. 9. Energize your self with the youth! Work out with people younger than you. My kids force me out of my comfort zone. “Daddy try this trick on the tramp. Dad race me to that pole and shimmy to the top. Lets see who wins.” Younger partners will make you rise to a higher level of performance. 10. When crunched for time, up the intensity of your work out. Skip rope fast for ten minutes or do 100 split squats for a personal best time, high intensity work outs will force the issue and teach your body to adjust to high power out put. Skiing is high power out put. Good luck and we hope to see you on the snow this season!
Chris Fellows, chris@skiNASTC.com
The North American Ski Training Center welcomes our fellow ski instructors to the 2011-2012 season! Dates: January 26-27, 2012 Alpine Meadows NASTC Ski Improvement Academy $150.00 for Two Days Since 1994 we have helped instructors pass their exams and achieve higher levels of certification. Supplement your training this year with an improvement clinic based on what YOU need to pass your Level 2 or 3. This total immersion camp will help transition your skiing to the highest standard. You’ll be led by PSIA past and current Alpine Team members. This 2 day clinic will be filled with on snow drills and exercises, personal technique/tactics analysis, video analysis, indoor tech talks, and an optional group dinner.
Activate Your Ambitions with a Selection of over 150 Education & Certification Events! Descriptions for over 150 Education & Certification Events Recommended Training Materials Professional Development Events for Everyone • Adaptive • Alpine • Children’s • Nordic • Senior’s • Snowboard
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General Information Event Registration Details signing up: View the Event Calendar online at www. psia-w.org. To sign up you will be re-directed to the national site www.thesnowpros.org for event Registration. If you have difficulty registering online, you can downlaod an “event application” (available on psiaw.org, under ‘Forms and Application’ or request from the office.) We do not take phone registration. Your registration must be received 2 weeks prior to the events to guarantee your spot. A late registration fee of $20.00 will be assessed for sign ups less than two weeks from the event. EMAIL VERIFICATION: We will email a confirmation of your registration, updates and changes to all participants with a valid email address. Make sure we have your email and that you
PSIA-AASI Western Division Education Foundation For more information on how to obtain a scholarship from our Education Foundation, please visit psia-w.org and open the Education Foundation page. There are three different types of scholarships available, each has their own criteria and application process. All applications must be received by February 1, 2012 (no exceptions). SATO Scholarship Membership Scholarship Sodergren Scholarship
have not ‘blocked’ email from the National database. WAITING LIST: Our goal is to serve all members who sign up for clinics. If a clinic is full, you may still sign up and be placed on a Waiting List. If it is possible for us to accommodate you, we will email or contact you by phone. A fee of $20.00 will be charged for late sign up. CANCELLATION POLICY: Registration fees are not refunded for last minute cancellations. To avoid paying fees, cancel at least 10 business days prior to the event. **Western Division reserves the right to cancel any event if it lacks registration by the published date. All fees will be returned. CERTIFICATION GUIDELINES: Exam requirements, study materials and “Certification Guides” can be downloaded at www.psia-w.org listed in Education materials under each discipline. This is the best source for more information on preparation materials and recommended training. MEETING TIME & LOCATION: All education events and exam modules begin at 8:30 a.m., unless otherwise indicated on your confirmation. In most cases, the meeting area is in the resort base lodge (look for event signage at the area.) When there is more than one base lodge for the resort, you will receive an email confirmation of the event meeting place.
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Types of Membership REGISTERED $85 Annual Dues (Includes Division & National Fees) New members working toward Level I certification. Affiliation with a snowsports school.
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General Information ELIGIBILITY: Applicants must be at least 16 years old. REQUIREMENTS: Registered Members are working toward their Level I Certification. *If you are not actively employed at a snowsport school you can only take your Level I Certification. If you pass you must complete at least 20 hrs. of teaching (verified by your school director) before receiving your Level I pin. If you do not complete 20 hrs of teaching you will only receive a certificate of completion. BENEFITS: You receive divisional and national benefits and can take Education and Level 1 Certification Events in any of the nine PSIA/AASI divisions. See Member Services at psia-w.org. ELIGIBILITY: Applicants must be at least 16 years old & certified.
CERTIFIED $85 Annual Dues (Includes Division & National Fees) Our most common membership.
MEMBER REINSTATEMENT For members who have let their annual dues lapse.
REQUIREMENTS: You are required to take (1) educational event every year or (2) educational events every 2 years. *Education requirements are mandatory for maintaining your certification. CERTIFICATION: You can take certification events. Level I (must be 16 yrs. old) Level II (must be 18 yrs. old & employed at a snowsports school) Level III (must be employed at snowsports school) BENEFITS: You receive divisional and national benefits and can take Education and Certification Events in any of the nine PSIA/AASI divisions. See Member Services at psia-w.org. ELIGIBILITY: Members who had let their annual dues lapse - and would like to resume “membership” status. Members whose membership has lapsed for over 10 years should contact the office for instructions. Members whose membership lapsed under 10 years ago can fill out a reinstatement form on www.psia-w.org, click on ‘Recertifying you Membership.’ REQUIREMENTS: Back Dues Fees ($35 for each year lapsed - max. of $140) Current Dues ($85) Education requirements to be fulfilled the same year as reinstatement - (1) day if you are Level I Certified or (2) days if you are Level II or III Certified. BENEFITS: You receive divisional and national benefits and can attend Education Events in any of the nine PSIA/AASI divisions. See Member Services at psia-w.org.
HOW TO JOIN & BECOME A MEMBER OF PSIA/AASI-W To become a Registered Member of PSIA/AASI-W you need to be at least 16 years old. You do not need to be affiliated with a snowsports school but we highly recommend you contact one of our PSIA/AASI Member Snow Sports Schools for an instructor’s position and join a Learn to be an Instructor or New Hire training program. See our “Become a Member” page at psia-w.org for a detailed explanation of member benefits. From this page you can register online or complete the membership form to fax or mail back to our office in Truckee, CA. Once you have paid for your Registration Membership, you can take Educational Events through PSIA/AASI-W. If you become a Registered Member you can take the Level I Certification Module (if you are actively working at a snowsport school) or the Level I Certification Module for New Instructors (if you are not actively instructing at a snowsport school.)
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Adaptive Education & Certification Program This year the Adaptive Committee will continue the Level 1 In-House program so that members can sign up for a multi week program to become certified in one adaptive discipline. This is the last year that previous Level 1 certifications will be grandfathered in that discipline for Level 2. The Level 2 Teach and Technical Modules will remain one day events in Cog / VI, Mono / Bi, or 3T / 4T / SU. This allows Level 2 candidates to achieve Level 2 with three days of Teach and Technical plus the Skiing / Riding module. Once again, if you have a pass in Alpine Skiing or Snowboard Riding, it will count forever for Adaptive. We are encouraging members to sign up for Adaptive Clinics which are offered in all regions to gain some knowledge to help deal with students with disabilities. Again this year, we are offering education and certification events throughout the division so that members can fulfill education requirements and achieve certification within a reasonable distance from home. The minimum group size for most events is 3 members, but we will continue to offer all certification events the week after Convention even if there is only one candidate. The L1/2 Certification Guide 2009, and the L1/2 Workbook 2010 are the latest education and study materials and are available on the website. Thanks to all who work with people with disabilities. Please see the Committee and Tech Team information on the website and don’t hesitate to call or email if you have questions.
Glen Smith
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Adaptive Education & Certification Program LEVEL 2 GRANDFATHERING NOTE The 2011/12 season will be the last opportunity for candidates who have previously passed a discipline or module teaching and technical exam at Level 1 to count for Level 2. In their last Level 2 teach and technical module, they will be asked to demonstrate assists at the Level 2 standard for the discipline or disciplines they passed at Level 1. Beginning in the 2012/13 season, Level 2 passes will be required for all teaching and technical modules. ___________________________________________________ ADAPTIVE RESORT TRAINER TRAINING Dec. 16 Location: Heavenly Jan. 24 Location: Bear Mountain (USARC) This one-day training course is required for resort trainers to lead an In-House L1 Adaptive Validation. Participants must be L2 or above Adaptive Certified and must be selected by their home ski school. ___________________________________________________ ADAPTIVE TECH TEAM TRAINING Dec. 16 Location: Heavenly Jan. 24 Location: Bear Mountain (USARC) This is a one day training course for members of the Adaptive Tech Team. Participants must be L2 Adaptive and L2 Alpine or Snowboard or L3 Adaptive and must be selected by the Adaptive Committee. ______________________________________________ ADAPTIVE EDUCATION CLINICS Jan. 22-23 Socal Winter Session Location: Snow Summit Feb. 26 Location: Mammoth Mar. 12 Location: Heavenly These clinics will be tailored to the needs of the members.The group leader will give instruction and feedback on any subjects requested by the participants with the primary goal being preparation for the Level 1,2,3 exams. __________________________________ ADAPTIVE LEVEL 1 IN-HOUSE VALIDATION (SKI OR SNOWBOARD) Week of Mar. 19-25 Level 1 (Scheduled by the home resort.) This is a one day clinic/exam where you will be coached and tested on your skiing/riding and teaching/technical ability in one of the disciplines (VI, etc.) at L1 standard. Candidates must have participated in a multiple week training program conducted at their home area by a qualified in-house trainer.
You will be coached and tested on teaching skiers/riders through open stance parallel/L4 riding. You will also be coached and tested on your functional skiing/riding as it relates to adaptive teaching and assists for your discipline. Successful candidates will display an understanding of the disabilities and the medications you may encounter with skiers/riders under these categories. Candidates will perform free skiing/ riding, demonstrations, and tasks. Adaptive L1 skiing/riding requirements/standards are the same as Alpine or Snowboard L1 skiing/riding standards. For a complete event description, see www.psia-w.org, Adaptive page. ___________________________________________________ ADAPTIVE LEVEL 1, 2, 3 SKIING/RIDING MODULE (SKI OR SNOWBOARD) Level 1, 2, 3 Mar 19 Location: Bear Mountain (USARC) Level 1, 2, 3 Mar.26 Location: Heavenly Level 1, 2, 3 April 16 Location: Alpine Meadows This is a one day module for Levels 1, 2 and a two-day module for Level 3. You will be coached and tested on your skiing/riding ability. Candidates will perform free skiing/riding, demonstrations, and tasks. Adaptive L 1, 2 and 3 skiing/riding requirements/standards are the same as Alpine or Snowboard L 1, 2 and 3 skiing/riding standards. Passing this exam, or the Alpine or Snowboard skiing/riding module in the appropriate discipline is required as well as one day of the Adaptive L1 Teaching and Technical exam in order to achieve Adaptive L1 Certification. For a complete event description, see www.psia-w.org, Adaptive page.
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Adaptive Education & Certification Program ADAPTIVE LEVEL 1/2 TEACHING AND TECHNICAL MODULE (SKI OR SNOWBOARD) COGNITIVE / VISUAL IMPAIRMENT OR BI-SKI / MONO-SKI OR 3 TRK./4 TRK. (SKI) OR STAND UP (SNOWBOARD) Level 1,2 Mar. 19-25* Location: Bear Mountain (USARC) Level 1,2 Mar.26-31* Location: Heavenly *exact dates of each TT module will be determined by convenience to most attendees. Apr. 16 Level 1,2 (Cog/VI/) Location: Alpine Meadows Apr. 17 Level 1,2 (MS/BS) Location: Alpine Meadows Apr. 18 Level 1,2 (3T/4T/SU) Location: Alpine Meadows This is a one day module. Candidates will be coached and tested on their ability to teach skiers/riders of one module (Cognitive / Visual Impairment etc.) Candidates will be given teaching scenarios to perform on the snow. You will be coached and tested on teaching skiers/riders through beginning wedge christie/level 4 riding for L1 or open parallel/ level 5 riding for L2. You will also be coached and tested on your functional skiing/riding as it relates to adaptive teaching for this module including, guiding and assists appropriate for this module. Successful candidates will display an understanding of the disabilities and the medications they may encounter with skiers/riders in this module. Candidates who want to take only one discipline for L1 (Cognitive etc.) may do so, but will stay with the group for the entire day. Candidates are required to bring an Adaptive L1/2 Workbook, completed in the discipline which they taking, and be familiar with the alpine or snowboard level 1/2 workbook or have a level 1 alpine or snowboard teaching certification. Passing one
discipline in this exam as well as one day of the Adaptive L1 skiing/riding exam (or passing the L1 Alpine or Snowboard Skiing/riding module) constitutes an Adaptive L1 Certification. Passing all three level 2 adaptive teaching/technical modules and a one day Adaptive level 2 skiing/riding module (or passing a L2 alpine/snowboard skiing/riding module) constitutes a level 2 adaptive certification. For a complete event description, see www.psia-w.org, Adaptive page. ____________________________________________________ ADAPTIVE LEVEL 3 TEACHING/ TECHNICAL MODULE (SKI OR SNOWBOARD) Apr. 16 Level 3 (Cog/VI/) Location: Alpine Meadows Apr. 17 Level 3 (MS/BS) Location: Alpine Meadows Apr. 18 Level 3 (3T/4T/SU) Location: Alpine Meadows This is a three day module where you will be coached and tested on your ability to teach students of all levels under all disciplines. You will also be coached and tested on your functional skiing/riding as it relates to adaptive teaching. Successful candidates will display an understanding of the disabilities and the medications you may encounter with skiers/ riders under these categories including multiple disabilities. There is no partial pass, all disciplines must be successfully completed. Passing this exam as well as one day of the Adaptive L3 skiing/riding exam (or passing the L3 Alpine or Snowboard Skiing/riding module) constitutes an Adaptive L3 Certification. For a complete event description, see www.psia-w.org, Adaptive section.
Fun Facts US population growth and the Snowsports industry (Source: National Ski Areas Association Journal, Nov. 2011 issue) e
As of April 2010, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated the U.S. population to be 308.7 million people, up 9.7 percent from the estimated 281.4 million residents reported in the 2000 Census, and up 24.1 percent from the 1990 Census.
e
Taking a broader view, the U.S. has more than quadrupled in size since 1900. Equally astonishing, an additional 60 million consumers have entered the market place since 1990.
e
The population is aging. The median age in the U.S. is now 37.2 years, the highest recorded in 220 years of data collection. This is up from the median age of 35.3 years reported in 2000.
e e e
Nevada led the nation in both population growth over the period (35%) and also percentage change in active skiers/snowboarders from 2000 to 2010 (38%).
California’s population grew by 10% while the active participant base grew by a healthy 19 %. That is good news for this region, as we are attracting new participants to the sport at a higher rate than the population is growing.
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Alpine Events Anticipation… With the first snow covering the peaks and a few lucky friends having already hiked for some early season powder turns, one can’t help but anticipate the upcoming season. What does that mean to you? Whether it’s ramping up your pre-season conditioning, getting new boots fitted, or buying new long underwear, we are all turning our thoughts to snow. On our end here at PSIA-W we are finalizing the calendar for the season, reviewing and producing educational materials and all in all trying to put everything in place for a great season of education and exams for you, the members. Elianne Furtney, Alpine Chair. Photo courtesy of I looked up the word anticipation in Wiktionary and in Aaron Rosen. addition to “considering something beforehand,” found the following definition: “The eagerness associated with waiting for something to occur.” Not only does this perfectly describe the feelings any devoted skier feels this time of year, but it got me thinking about anticipation in the old ATS glossary sense of anticipation/release, whereby a countered position at the end of the turn works in concert with an edge release to produce a smooth, effortless turn entry. I love the idea of readying myself with “eagerness” for every turn! Of course this time of year, I am still trying to squeeze in a few mountain bike rides and I am stuck once again by the parallels between biking and skiing. When you anticipate a turn, you are “looking forward” to your next turn. But are you actually looking forward? Often we coach our students to look as far down the hill as possible to stay balanced and ready for whatever comes up next. This summer, while biking on tight singletrack it was often impossible to see more than 10-15 feet through the trees. Despite the lack of range I found that if I concentrated on turning my chin to follow the corner, my eyes would automatically refocus as soon as the next section of trail came into view. Suddenly I was somehow looking ahead farther than seemed possible and thus was able to better anticipate the next turn! In skiing, too often we forget that the head can actually turn independently of the shoulders (maybe it’s the neck gaiters?). As you get back on your skis this winter play with the idea of keeping your head on a swivel, constantly looking through each turn, eagerly anticipating the next! Anticipation has many interpretations when it comes to skiing. We speak of physical anticipation – a countered position with eyes looking down the hill, and mental anticipation – a state of readiness for what is to come. Are you ready? If you haven’t already, now is the time to set goals for the season and make an action plan so winter doesn’t surprise you like a cat road in flat light!
Elianne Furtney, Alpine Chair
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Alpine Events Premier Mulit-Day Events Fall Rally Dec. 11-12 Location: Alpine Meadows This discounted 2-day event (with an option of 1 day only) is open to the entire membership as an opportunity to get an early season tune-up. Come prepared to have fun, hone your skiing skills, and receive updates on divisional and national materials. ____________________________________________________ Mini Academy Jan. 11-12 Location: Squaw Valley Come ski with the best instructors in the nation! Take advantage of this opportunity to ski with the National Demonstration Team Members while skiing varied terrain and receiving top notch coaching. Challenge yourself, sharpen your skills, learn about other PSIA divisions, all while having lots of fun! Open to all members. This event is made possible by a grant from the ASEA Education Foundation with additional sponsorship assistance from Subaru of America. ____________________________________________________ So Cal Winter Session Jan 22-23 Location: Snow Summit This 2-day event (with an option of 1 day only) is open to the entire membership as an opportunity to get an early season tune-up. Come prepared to have fun, hone your skiing skills, and receive updates on divisional and national materials. Open to all members. ____________________________________________________ PSIA-W Women’s Summit Jan. 29 – 31 Location: Squaw Valley Top women clinic leaders from the Western Division will provide insight, knowledge, inspiration and a whole lotta fun for participants of all ability levels. The program includes am/pm clinics to customize each day with different terrain and ski pacing options. Clinic selection will include everything from ski improvement to building women’s programs at your home resort. The Women’s Summit will provide (optional) indoor
Date: Jan. 29-31 Location: Squaw Valley Questions on agenda, lodging, special requests: Contact Heidi Ettlinger at heidiettlinger@ yahoo.com
presentations, guest speakers, goodie bags, new friends, and surprises! Check the online event descriptions page for a complete agenda. If you have questions or special requests please contact Heidi Ettlinger (heidiettlinger@yahoo.com).
Professional Development Events Build Your Technical FoundatioN November 12 Location: Heavenly (Indoor Clinic) This indoor clinic will build your knowledge of biomechanics, turn mechanics, and movement analysis with fun and stimulating presentations! It will include a comprehensive overview of the technical aspects of contemporary skiing and how to apply this to your own training. Come prepared for a highly interactive multi-media approach to honing your knowledge. ____________________________________________________ Foot and Lower Leg Biomechanics Nov. 14 Location: Sky Tavern Clinicians: Bud Heishman and Jim Schaffner This indoor clinic is staffed by industry pros who will present fundamental information for understanding foot and lower leg biomechanics. The following areas will be covered: · Movements and function of the foot, ankle, and lower leg specific to skiing. · Assessment of the attendee’s feet and lower legs for boot fit considerations. · How to understand the ultimate goal of footbed and boot modifications. · How to understand boot fitting and alignment issues to improve your and your students skiing potential. ____________________________________________________ Build Your Technical Foundation (indoors & on snow) December 3 Location: Heavenly This clinic will start indoors with a multi-media presentation of biomechanics, turn mechanics, and a comprehensive overview of the technical aspects of contemporary skiing. After lunch we’ll experiment on snow with exercises that illustrate how to apply this knowledge to your own training. ____________________________________________________ Professional Portfolio Camp December 14 Location: Alpine Meadows This clinic is designed for entry level through experienced instructors to build their career as snowsport professionals (on and off the snow). Training will include how to develop key networking opportunities, skiing & communication skill improvement, and locating regional and international jobs offers. All participants will receive a comprehensive individual assessment of their current resume with recommendations. ____________________________________________________
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Alpine Events Interski & the Industry January 8 Location: Heavenly Come join us for a fun filled day on-snow reviewing the highlights of Interski 2011. We’ll also bring you up to date on the latest innovations in equipment design, snowsport growth initiatives, industry trends and the ever expanding role of PSIA. A video capturing the best of Interski will wrap-up the day with plenty of time for Q & A. ____________________________________________________ Understanding Boot Alignment Jan. 10 Location: Mt Rose Feb. 14 Location: Homewood Clinician: Bud Heishman Improve your understanding of the effects of predetermined angles equipment places on a skier’s stance. You will be different fore/aft and lateral set-ups on five pairs of identically prepared skis as well as having the opportunity to observe how these changes affect a skier’s movement and stance. You will learn to differentiate between technique and equipment caused skiing movements, improving your effectiveness as a ski instructor! ____________________________________________________ Racing Fundamentals Jan. 19 Location: Sierra at Tahoe Turn it up a notch by improving your technical free skiing and racing skills. This clinic will focus on self improvement in the gates through skill and tactics. All levels of race experience are welcome. Helmet and goggles are required! Video will be taken weather permitting. ____________________________________________________ All Mountain Adventure Jan 25 Location: Mammoth March 7 Location: Squaw Valley Are you ready to charge? This clinic will focus on skill development and tactics for exceptional steep and mogul skiing. Coaching will highlight specific feedback on personal performance and may be used as training for certification. Expect to be skiing on challenging terrain at a faster pace. ____________________________________________________ Skiing Detectives-Level 2/3 Movement Analysis Jan. 30 Level 3 Location: Heavenly Jan. 31 Level 2 Location: Heavenly March 12 Level 2 Location: Mammoth March 13 Level 3 Location: Mammoth What do you see when you watch somebody ski down the hill? What is the most efficient progression to get them to the next level? This clinic is specific to improving movement analysis, understanding cause and effect and then developing a progression from those observations. This is a great clinic to take as preparation for the Level 2/3 teach module. ____________________________________________________
USSA offers discounts to instructors. The U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) Sport Education department would like to invite all PSIA members to attend their Level 100 coaching clinics for 2011-2012. The USSA clinic schedule is available at: http://www.ussa.org/magnoliaPublic/ussa/en/ formembers/coaches/clinics.html, with registration starting October 3, 2011. As a professional consideration, PSIA Level 3 instructors are welcome to attend at USSA member prices by entering in their PSIA division and certification number in the notes section of the USSA registration along with the code “psia1012”.
Level 2 Demos Understood Feb. 2 Location: Northstar If you are preparing for the Level 2 ski exam, or trying to better understand the how and why of the Level 2 demos this is a great clinic to take. Weather permitting your clinician will use video analysis to understand the ins and outs of the demos. We will discuss what they are, how to perform them, and when to apply them in different conditions. ____________________________________________________ Level 3 Demos Understood Feb. 3 Location: Heavenly If you are preparing for the Level 3 ski exam, or trying to better understand the how and why of the Level 2 demos this is a great clinic to take. Weather permitting your clinician will use video analysis to understand the ins and outs of the demos. We will discuss what they are, how to perform them, and when to apply them in different conditions. ____________________________________________________ Fill Your Tool Box Feb. 5 Location: Mt Baldy This is a teaching focused clinic. Your clinician will give you new “tools” to use, and teach you when, where, why and how to use them. You will get to try out new ideas as you explore the mountain. This is a great clinic to take if you are thinking of taking a teach module, or if you are feeling like you need to expand your teaching horizons. ____________________________________________________ Level 1/Level 2 Skiing and Teaching Training Feb. 12 Location: Snow Valley A complete overview of the skills and knowledge required for both the level 1 and Level 2 exams. The day will include skiing, demos, tasks, on-hill teaching, and technical understanding. This is a great event if you have successfully petitioned to do your Level 1 and Level 2 exam this season. ____________________________________________________
2011-12
E V E N T S
Register online and check for updates or changes at www.psia-w.org.
Spring Convention
Event Location Northstar
Date Event Cost 4/13-15 Spring Convention tba Adaptive Events Event Date Event Location Cost 12/16 Adaptive Resort Trainer Alpine Meadows $50 1/22-23 So Cal Winter Session Snow Summit $50/day 1/24 Adaptive Resort Trainer Snow Summit $50 2/26 L1,2,3 Prep clinic Mammoth $65 3/12 L1,2,3 Prep clinic Heavenly $65 3/19-25 In-House Validations various $90 3/19 L1,2,3 Ski, Ride Module Bear Mountain $70-90 3/19-25 L1,2 Teach/Tech Modules Bear Mountain $70-80 3/26-31 L1,2,3 Teach/Tech Modules Heavenly $70-80 3/26 L1,2,3 Ski/Ride Modules Heavenly $70-90 4/16 L1,2,3 Ski/Ride Modules Alpine Meadows $70-90 4/16 L1,2,3 Cog/VI Teach/Tech Alpine Meadows $70-90 4/17 L1-3 MS/BS TT Module Alpine Meadows $70-90 4/18 L1-3 3T/4T/SU Module Alpine Meadows $70-90 Alpine & Senior Events Event Date Event Location Cost 11/12 Building Your Technical Foundation Heavenly $50 11/14 Foot and Lower Leg Biomechanics Sky Tavern $50 12/3 Building Your Technical Foundation Heavenly $50 12/4-9 Alp L1 New Instructor 6-Day Heavenly $420 12/11-12 Fall Rally Alpine Meadows $50/day 12/11-12 Resort Trainer #1 Alpine Meadows $100 12/14 Professional Portfolio Camp Alpine Meadows $65 1/4-5 Resort Trainer #2 Mammoth $100 1/8 L1/L2 Prep Training LVSSR $65 1/8 Interski and the Industry Heavenly $65 1/9 SR Intro to Teaching Seniors Mt. High $65 1/10 Understanding Boot Alignment Mt. Rose $65 1/11-12 Mini Academy w/ National D-Team Squaw Valley $140 1/11 Alp L2 Ski prep Homewood $65 1/12 Alp L2 Teach prep Homewood $65 1/18-19 Alp L3 Teach prep Alpine Meadows $130 1/19 Racing Fundamentals Sierra at Tahoe $65 1/22-23 SoCal Winter Session Snow Summit $50/day 1/22-23 Resort Trainer # 3 Snow Summit $100 1/23-24 Alp Freestyle Specialist 1 Bear Mountain $140 1/23-24 Alp L2 Ski Module Mammoth $160 1/24-26 Alp L1 Module Sierra at Tahoe $210 1/25 All Mountain Adventure Mammoth $65
Event Date Event Location Cost 1/26-27 SR Senior Specialist L1 Mt. High $140 1/29-31 PSIA-W Women’s Summit, one, two or three days Squaw Valley $65/day 1/30 Alp Intro to Park and Pipe Boreal $65 1/30 Skiing Detectives-L3 Movement Analysis Heavenly $65 1/31 Skiing Detectives-L2 Movement Analysis Heavenly $65 1/31-2/2 Alp L3 Teaching Module Alpine Meadows $270 2/2 Alp L2 Demos Understood Northstar $65 2/3 Alp L3 Demos Understood Heavenly $65 2/5 Fill your Toolbox Mt. Baldy $65 2/6-7 Alp L3 Ski Prep Squaw Valley $130 2/6-8 Alp L2 Teaching Module Diamond Peak $240 2/7 SR Intro to Teaching Seniors Northstar $65 2/8-10 Alp L1 Module Mammoth $210 2/9 Tech Team Tryouts Squaw Valley $65 2/9-10 Resort Trainer # 4 Northstar $100 2/12 L1/L2 Skiing/Teaching Training Snow Valley $65 2/13 Alp L2 Ski prep Mammoth $65 2/13 Teaching in Spanish Heavenly $65 2/14 Understanding Boot Alignment Homewood $65 2/14 Alp L2 Teaching Prep Mammoth $65 2/16 Teaching Ideas for Intermediate students Sierra at Tahoe $65 2/17 Teaching Ideas for Advanced students Sierra at Tahoe $65 2/20 Alp L2 Ski Prep Snow Summit $65 2/26-28 Alp L1 Module Bear Mountain $210 2/27 “The Move” Secrets of Dynamic Skiing Alpine Meadows $65 2/27 SR Intro to Teaching Seniors Mt. High $65 2/28 Tech Team Tryouts Mammoth $65 3/1-2 Alp L3 Ski Module Squaw Valley $180 3/2 Don’t Get Piste Off-Intro to Crud and Bumps Sugar Bowl $65 3/4-5 SR Senior Specialist L1 Snow Valley $140 3/5-6 Alp L2 Ski Module Heavenly $160 3/5-6 SR Senior Specialist L1 Sugar Bowl $140 3/7 All Mountain Adventure Squaw Valley $65 3/7-9 Alp L1 Module Homewood $210 3/11-12 Alp L2 Ski Module Snow Summit $160 3/11-12 SR Senior Mastery of Skiing Bear Mountain $130 3/12 Skiing Detectives- L2 Movement Analysis Mammoth $65 3/13 Skiing Detectives- L3 Movement Analysis Mammoth $65 3/14 Alp L2 Ski prep Alpine Meadows $65 3/15 Alp L2 Teaching Prep Alpine Meadows $65
C A L E N D A R Register online and check for updates or changes at www.psia-w.org.
Date 3/18 3/18-20 3/19-20 3/19-21 3/22-23 3/22-23 3/26-27 3/26-28 3/26-28 3/29-30 4/1-3 4/2 4/9 4/9-10 4/10 4/14-15 4/14-15 4/16-18 4/16-17 4/16-17 4/16-18 4/16-18 5/7-9
Event Alp L2 Teaching Prep SR Senior Specialist L2 SR Senior Mastery of Skiing Alp L3 Teaching Module Alp Freestyle Specialist 1 Alp L3 Ski Module Alp L2 Ski Module Alp L2 Teaching Module SR Senior Specialist L2 SR Senior Specialist L1 Alp L2 Teaching Module Carve your Heart Out Alp L2 Skiing Prep Alp L3 Teaching Prep Alp L2 Teaching Prep SR Senior Specialist L1 SR Senior Mastery of Skiing Alp L1 Module Alp L2 Ski Module Alp L3 Ski Module Alp L2 Teach Module Alp L3 Teach Module Race Camp
Children’s Events Date 1/13 1/23-24 1/25-27 2/1 2/7-9 2/27-28 3/5-7 3/8-9 3/14-15 4/14-15
Event Tricks for Teaching Children Children’s Specialist L1 Children’s Specialst L2 Children’s Supervisor and Trainer event Children’s Specialist L2 Children’s Specialist L1 Children’s Specialist L2 Children’s Specialist L1 Children’s Specialist L1 Children’s Specialist L1-Conv
Nordic Events Date Event 12/15-17 Nordic Fall Symposium 12/16 L1 XC Prep 12/16 L1 Telemark Prep 1/10 L1 XC Prep 1/11 L2/3 XC Prep 1/30 L1 Telemark exam 1/31-2/1 L2 Telemark Prep 2/2-3 L3 Telemark Prep
Event Location Snow Summit Snow Summit Heavenly Heavenly Northstar Mammoth Mt. Rose Sierra at Tahoe Diamond Peak Mt. High Snow Summit Northstar Squaw Valley Squaw Valley Squaw Valley Northstar-Conv Northstar-Conv Squaw Valley Squaw Valley Squaw Valley Squaw Valley Squaw Valley Mammoth
Cost $65 $210 $130 $270 $140 $180 $160 $240 $210 $140 $240 $65 $65 $130 $65 tba tba $210 $160 $180 $240 $270 tba
Event Location Squaw Valley Snow Summit Snow Summit
Cost $65 $140 $210
Northstar Alpine Meadows Snow Valley Mammoth Mammoth Northstar Northstar
$65 $210 $140 $210 $140 $140
Event Location Cost Sugar Bowl/ ASC $195 Auburn Ski Club $70 Sugar Bowl $70 Tahoe Donner $70 Tahoe Donner 80-90 Sierra at Tahoe $70 Alpine Meadows $160 Squaw Valley $180
Date Event 2/4 L1 Telemark Prep 3/5 L1 Telemark Exam 3/6-7 L2 Telemark Exam 3/8-9 L3 Telemark Exam 3/20 L1 XC Exam 3/21 L2/3 XC Exam
Event Location China Peak Alpine Meadows Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows Tahoe Donner Tahoe Donner
Cost $70 $70 $160 $180 $70 80-90
Snowboarding Events
Event Date Event Location 12/4-9 SB L1 Module, 6 day Squaw Valley 12/11-12 SB Resort Trainer # 1 Alpine Meadows 1/10-12 SB L1 Module, 3 day Heavenly 1/20 SB Divisional Trainer Prep 1 Mammoth 1/22-23 SoCal Winter session Snow Summit 1/22-23 SoCal SB Resort Trainer Snow Summit 1/25 SB L2 & L3 Cert. Training Alpine Meadows 1/26-27 SB Intro to Freestyle Northstar 1/30-31 SB L2 Ride Module Northstar 2/3 SB Steeps Riding Kirkwood 2/6-7 SB Freestyle L1 Mammoth 2/6-8 SB L1 Module Mammoth 2/13-14 SB L2 Ride Module Mammoth 2/13-14 SB L3 Ride Module Mammoth 2/16 SB L2 Teach Training Northstar 2/27 SB Advanced Riding Dev. Squaw Valley 2/29-3/2 SB L2 Teach Module Northstar 3/1-2 SB Freestyle L1 Bear Mountain 3/5-6 SB L2 Ride Module Squaw Valley 3/5-6 SB L3 Ride Module Squaw Valley 3/7 SB Divisional Trainer Prep # 2 Squaw Valley 3/8-9 SB L2 Ride Module Bear Mountain 3/12 SB Half Pipe & Freestyle Coaching Boreal 3/13 SB MA: Progression Building Alpine Meadows 3/14-16 SB Freestyle L2 Northstar 3/16-18 SB L1 Module, 3 day Snow Valley 3/16 SB L2 & L3 Teach Training Squaw Valley 3/19-20 SB Freestyle L1 Northstar 3/21-23 SB L2 Teach Module Mammoth 3/21-23 SB L3 Teach Module Mammoth 3/24 SB Women’s Development Day Squaw Valley 3/26-27 SB Divisional Trainer Exam Squaw Valley 3/28-30 SB L2 Teach Module Snow Summit 4/3-7 National Rider Rally Copper 4/9 SB L2 & L3 Teach Training Northstar 4/13-15 Spring Convention Northstar 4/13-14 SB Freestyle Specialist L1 Northstar 4/16-18 SB L1 Module Squaw Valley 4/16-18 SB L2 Teach Module Squaw Valley 4/16-18 SB L3 Teach Module Squaw Valley
Cost $420 $100 $210 $70 $50/day $100 $65 $130 $160 $65 $130 $210 $160 $180 $65 $65 $240 $140 $160 $180 $70 $160 $65 $65 $210 $210 $65 $140 $240 $270 $50 $140 $240 $65 $140 $210 $240 $270
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Alpine Events Teaching in Spanish Feb. 13 Location: Heavenly This clinic is designed to translate common skiing language into Spanish. Come prepared to either develop your current Spanish abilities or start with the basics. Learn how to better communicate with your Spanish speaking students and have more fun! ____________________________________________________ Teaching Ideas for Intermediate Students Feb. 16 Location: Sierra at Tahoe This clinic is focused on teaching ideas for ATS level 4-7 students. It will develop ideas of what movement patterns need to be developed and where to develop them, while exploring fun and exciting ways to get them there. This clinic is great for anybody taking their Level 2 teach module or if you are looking for new teaching ideas. ____________________________________________________ Teaching Ideas for Advanced Students Feb. 17 Location: Sierra at Tahoe This clinic is focused on teaching ideas for ATS level 7-9 students. It will develop ideas of what movement patterns need to be developed and where to develop them, while exploring fun and exciting ways to get them there. This clinic is great for anybody taking their Level 3 teach module or if you are looking for new teaching ideas. ____________________________________________________ “The Move”, Secrets of Dynamic Skiing Feb. 27 Location: Alpine Meadows This clinic focuses on the accurate and precise mechanics that are required to create the desired turn-shape for the type of snow, pitch and terrain. You will also explore the finishing phase of the turn and how that will allow you to maximize your ability to rip into the new turn and throughout it. A great clinic if you are taking your Level 3 ski! ____________________________________________________ Don’t Get “Piste” Off-Intro to Crud and Bumps March 2 Location: Sugar Bowl This clinic will develop both techniques and tactics needed for skiing off piste, bumps and variable conditions. You will ski a variety of terrain to best learn how and when to use these movements. This is a perfect clinic for anybody nervous about the bump portion of the Level 2 skiing module. ____________________________________________________ Carve Your Heart Out April 2 Location: Northstar This clinic will focus on modern techniques for carving on groomed terrain. You will learn about ski design and performance and how you need to utilize them for maximum performance. ____________________________________________________
Level 2 Ski Prep Jan. 11 Location: Homewood Feb. 13 Location: Mammoth Feb. 20 Location: Snow Summit March 14 Location: Alpine Meadows April 9 Location: Squaw Valley This clinic is for anybody who is thinking of doing their Level 2 ski certification. If you just want a little extra training, a better understanding of the process and standard, or are not sure if you are ready yet this is a great event to attend. Demos, tasks, and free skiing standards will all be covered along with personal feedback. ____________________________________________________ Level 2 Teach Prep Jan. 12 Location: Homewood Feb. 14 Location: Mammoth March 15 Location: Alpine Meadows March 18 Location: Snow Summit April 10 Location: Squaw Valley This clinic is for anybody who is thinking of doing their Level 2 teaching certification. If you just want a little extra training, a better understanding of the process and standard, or are not sure if you are ready yet this is a great event to attend. On-hill teaching presentations, teaching methodology and movement analysis will be covered along with personal feedback. ____________________________________________________ Level 3 Ski Prep Feb. 6-7 Location: Squaw Valley This clinic is for anybody who is thinking of doing their Level 3 ski certification. If you just want a little extra training, a better understanding of the process and standard, or are not sure if you are ready yet this is a great event to attend. Demos, tasks, and free skiing standards will all be covered along with personal feedback. Must sign up for both days. ____________________________________________________
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Alpine Events Level 3 Teach Prep Jan 18-19 Location: Alpine Meadows April 9-10 Location: Squaw Valley This clinic is for anybody who is thinking of doing their Level 3 teaching certification. If you just want a little extra training, a better understanding of the process and standard, or are not sure if you are ready yet this is a great event to attend. On-hill teaching presentations, teaching methodology and movement analysis will be covered along with personal feedback. Must sign up for both days. ___________________________________________________ Level 1/ Level 2 Prep Training Jan. 8 Location: Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort A complete overview of the skills and knowledge required for both the level I and Level II exams. The day will include skiing, demos, tasks, on-hill teaching, and technical understanding. This is a great event if you have successfully petitioned to do your level I and level II exam this season. _____________________________________________ Alpine Freestyle Level 1 Jan. 23-24 Location: Bear Mtn. March 22-23 Location: Northstar This 2-day event is for current Level I instructors wishing to teach guests free ride maneuvers on terrain and park features. This event will focus on assessing the skills needed to teach and demonstrate in both the park and pipe. The candidate will be assessed on 360s, Grabs, Rail Slides and Pipe Riding. It is a pass/fail format, with the candidates being required to accomplish all aspects of the minimum course requirements, both teaching and demonstrating. Candidates are expected to understand and incorporate concepts such as, speed, P.O.P., S.A.S.C., ATML, trajectory finding tools and overall park and pipe safety and etiquette. Prerequisites: Must be a Certified Level I Instructor, current with membership and actively working in a snowsports school. Participants must complete the “Free Ride Written Test.” Helmets and twin tip skis required. ______________________________________________ Alpine Race Camp May 7-9 Location: Mammoth NEW this season. This is a 3-day event that will focus on racing fundamentals and tactics. It is designed for everyone, even those who have never had experience in gates. Participants will be grouped according to similarities in skill, pace and goals. The camp will include slalom and giant slalom practice. Participants can expect to run through a variety of drills, tactically set courses and full length courses. The camp will also include directed free-skiing, video analysis and off-hill activities. The focus of the camp will be on developing participants’ technical skills toward greater precision and accuracy, learning racing tactics and strategies and increasing confidence in the race course.
Certification Modules Level 1, New Instructors, 6 Day Certification Module Dec. 4-9 Location: Heavenly This 6 day program is for people who are not actively teaching at a snowsport school, but would like to become a Certified Instructor. The course involves skiing, teaching, movement analysis, and technical knowledge which meets our National Level 1 Certification Standards. Successful candidates receive a certificate of completion and then have 2 years to complete the 20 hours of teaching required to become a Certified Level 1 instructor. Prerequisites: · Participants must be at least 16 years old, and a registered member of PSIA/AASI-W. · Participants must be capable of linking parallel turns on blue intermediate terrain. · Participants must read the Western Division Level 1 Study and Certification Guide, complete the Level 1 workbook in advance of the course. Study guides and other resources can be found at www.psia-w.org under “Alpine-Education Materials”. ____________________________________________________ Level 1 In-House Training and Certification To be scheduled by host resorts The In-House Training Program allows members who are actively instructing at a resort to train for their Level 1 Certification with an In-House Trainer. After the study sessions and on-hill trainings have been completed and signed off by the trainer there is a validation by a PSIA-W examiner to assure that the National Level 1 Standards are meet. Successful candidates receive their Level 1 Certification. Training and validation dates are set by the Resort Trainer.
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Alpine Events Necessary Steps: · Check to see if your Snowsports School offers an In-House program · Find out who your coordinates your resort training and let them know you are interested in joining an In-House Level 1 Certification program. · Become a registered member of PSIA-W by FEBRUARY 1st · Download the Level 1 In-House Portfolio, Alpine Level 1 Study and Certification Guide and The Level 1 Workbook (on the www.psia-w.org website. Click on “Alpine” and then on “InHouse Level 1 Certification”) · Attend all study sessions and on hill trainings for your InHouse Program · Once you have completed your portfolio and training, your trainer will schedule a validation clinic with a PSIA/AASI-W Examiner. · You must pay the $ 90 validation fee TWO WEEKS prior to the validation clinic. You can pay online at www.psia-w.org, click on ‘Event Calendar’ page. Select the Discipline (Alpine, Snowboard, Adaptive, etc.) and the Session (your resort.) Prerequisites: · Participants must be at least 16 years old, and a registered member of PSIA/AASI-W.
Alignment Camp by: Snowind Sports/Synergy Coaching This 2 day camp offers participants the opportunity to explore equipment’s affect on their skiing performance and the chance to have personal alignment assessed, and if desired, modifications made the first evening of the camp (additional costs for foot beds or equipment modifications performed). Camp includes two days on snow, indoor sessions, stance assessment, tech talks, coaching. Costs: $150 for PSIA/W members Dates: Dec. 6-7 Mt. Rose Jan. 24-25 Mammoth
Sign up through www.snowind.com or Snowind on Facebook or call: 775-771-2737.
· Participants must be capable of linking parallel turns on blue intermediate terrain. · Participants are also strongly encouraged to purchase educational materials, the PSIA Alpine Technical Manual 2nd Edition and the Core Concepts for Snowsports Instructors are highly recommended. The National Website also has several handbooks with teaching progressions, and children’s specific manuals available on the National website at www. thesnowpros.org ____________________________________________________ Level 1 Certification Module Jan. 24-26 Location: Sierra at Tahoe Feb. 8-10 Location: Mammoth Feb. 26-28 Location: Bear Mountain March 7-9 Location: Homewood April 16-18 Location: Squaw Valley Please read the Western Division Level 1 Certification Guide for detailed information (found at www.psia-w.org website under “Alpine” then under “Education Materials”) This 3 day program is for people who are actively teaching at a Snowsport School. The course involves skiing, teaching, movement analysis, and technical knowledge which meets our National Level 1 Certification Standards. Prerequisites: · Participants must be at least 16 years old, and a registered member of PSIA/AASI-W. · Participants must have 20 hours of teaching at a Snowsports School. · Participants must be capable of linking parallel turns on blue intermediate terrain. · Participants must read the Western Division Level 1 Study and Certification Guide, complete the Level 1 workbook in advance of the course. Study guides and other resources can be found at www.psia-w.org under “Alpine-Education Materials”. ____________________________________________________
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Alpine Events Level 2 Ski Certification Module Jan. 23-24 Location: Mammoth March 5-6 Location: Heavenly March 11-12 Location: Snow Summit March 26-27 Location: Mt. Rose April 16-17 Location: Squaw Valley Please read the Western Division Level 2 Certification Guide for detailed information (found at www.psia-w.org website under “Alpine” then under “Education Materials”) This 2 day Level 2 Certification Module includes a skiing assessment, feedback and coaching from the examiner to meet the National Level 2 Standards. Level 2 certified instructors have the skills to make short, medium and long radius turns on blue and groomed black terrain with minimal skidding. Skill application and accuracy may vary with terrain and snow conditions. Demonstrations and tasks need to illustrate accurate movement patterns. Scoring for this event is a pass/ fail. Essential elements of all skiing maneuvers must appear regularly at a satisfactory level to pass. Prerequisites: · Must be a Certified Level 1 Instructor, current with membership, education credits and actively working in a snowsports school. · Participants must read the Western Division Level 2 Certification Guide and the national Level 2 Study Guide (located on the website under “Alpine” then under “Education Materials”). · Participants are also strongly encouraged to purchase educational materials, the PSIA Alpine Technical Manual 2nd Edition and the Core Concepts for Snowsports Instructors are highly recommended. The National Website also has several handbooks with teaching progressions, and children’s specific manuals available at www.thesnowpros.org ____________________________________________________ Level 2 Teaching Certification Module Feb. 6-8 Location: Diamond Peak March 26-28 Location: Sierra at Tahoe April 1-3 Location: Snow Summit April 16-18 Location: Squaw Valley Please read the Western Division Level 2 Certification Guide for detailed information (found at www.psia-w.org website under “Alpine” then under “Education Materials”) This 3 day Level 2 Certification Module includes a teaching assessment, feedback and coaching from the examiner to meet the National Level 2 Standards. Candidates will be evaluated on their use of the Teaching Model, ability to communicate, use of methodology, “tools”, tasks, drills, exercises, and overall presence. Candidates will be asked to teach adult and children ATS levels 1-7. Scoring for this event is a pass/fail. Essential elements of all teaching and demonstrations must appear regularly at a satisfactory level to pass. Prerequisites: · Candidates must have passed the Level 2 Skiing Module within the last season
Resort Trainer Series. Make your Training Program better. This year we will be putting additional emphasis on supporting the people who do the heavy lifting for the Division, our resort trainers. We hope to provide Tech Team type training and support for resort trainers, to help them improve their ski school training programs and become stronger clinicians. By better supporting our resort trainers, we hope to help the entire membership come to our certification events with the best possible preparation. The Resort Trainer Series is a two day event with attendance both days strongly suggested. The first day will focus primarily on organizing and planning a season-long training program with the main focus on level I in house certification. This training is also a requirement to run a level I in house certification program for your ski school. Day two will focus on training programs for the higher levels of certification (Levels 2,3). We will also explore areas of candidate weakness in last season’s exam modules, and how to train away those weaknesses. Who can come? Open to Level 2/3 instructors who perform a training role at their home resort. Also recommended for Level 3 instructors who are planning on trying out for Tech Team. Curriculum: 1. Level 2 and level 3 skiing and teaching standards, based on the PSIA/AASI national updated written standards available on the national website. What your candidates can expect from the skiing and teaching module format for level 2 and level 3. 2. How to tailor your training to the knowledge and skill level of level 2 and level 3. 3. Using video to develop movement analysis skills, turn mechanics understanding, and expert skiing skills for level 2 and level 3. 4. Ways to train and coach your instructors to true expert skiing in both technique and tactics for terrain and snow conditions. 5. Nuts and bolts drills to develop level 2 and level 3 tasks, demos and expert skiing skills. 6. How to augment your program with effective indoor sessions. 7. How to help your level 2 and level 3 candidates take professional responsibility for their own skiing and teaching improvement. 8. How to test your instructors to be sure they are prepared to be successful at the exam modules. 9. In addition to working on L 2 and L 3 skiing standards, demos and tasks, we will coach your own personal skiing, including your strengths, needs, turn mechanics and tactics for terrain and snow conditions. RTS clinics are considered good training for those interested in Tech Team tryouts. Bring your questions, ideas and goals for your training program with you. We’ll help you get your training year off to a good start.
Resort trainer series dates: Dec. 11-12 Resort Trainer Series #1 Location: Alpine Meadows Jan. 4-5 Resort Trainers Series #2 Location: Mammoth Jan. 22-23 Resort Trainers Series #3 Location: Snow Summit Feb. 9-10 Resort Trainers Series #4 Location: Northstar
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Alpine Events · Participants are also strongly encouraged to purchase educational materials, the PSIA Alpine Technical Manual 2nd Edition and the Core Concepts for Snowsports Instructors are highly recommended. The National Website also has several handbooks with teaching progressions, and children’s specific manuals available at www.thesnowpros.org _____________________________________________
· Candidates must have completed the Level 2 Workbook (located on the website under “Alpine” then under “Education Materials”), and hand the completed workbook in the first morning of the module. ___________________________________________________ Level 3 Skiing Certification Module March 1-2 Location: Squaw Valley March 22-23 Location: Mammoth April 16-17 Location: Squaw Valley Please read the Western Division Level 3 Certification Guide for detailed information (found at www.psia-w.org website under “Alpine” then under “Education Materials”) This 2 day Level 2 Certification Module includes a skiing assessment, feedback and coaching from the examiner to meet the National Level 3 Standards. Level 3 instructors have the ability to make short, medium, and long radius turns with the appropriate blending of skills. Demonstrations and tasks need to illustrate accurate movement patterns. Certified Level 3 instructors can ski any slope, with any snow condition which is skied by the public and can o so successfully and dynamically. Candidates must demonstrate strong leg action, a quiet upper body, and powerful use of ski design. Scoring for this event is a pass/fail. Essential elements of all skiing maneuvers must appear regularly at a satisfactory level to pass. Prerequisites: · Must be a Certified Level 2 Instructor, current with membership, education credits and actively working in a snowsports school. · Participants must read the Western Division Level 3 Certification Guide and the national Level 3 Study Guide (located on the website under “Alpine” then under “Education Materials”).
Level 3 Teaching Certification Module Jan. 31-Feb. 2 Location: Alpine Meadows March 19-21 Location: Heavenly April 16-18 Location: Squaw Valley Please read the Western Division Level 3 Certification Guide for detailed information (found at www.psiaw.org website under “Alpine” then under “Education Materials”) This 3 day Level 3 Certification Module includes a teaching assessment, feedback and coaching from the examiner to meet the National Level 3 Standards. Candidates will be evaluated on their use of the Teaching Model, ability to communicate, use of methodology, “tools”, tasks, drills, exercises, and overall presence. Candidates will be asked to teach adult and children ATS levels 1-9. Scoring for this event is a pass/fail. Essential elements of all teaching and demonstrations must appear regularly at a satisfactory level to pass. Prerequisites: · Candidates must have passed the Level 3 Skiing Module within the last season · Candidates must have completed the Level 3 Workbook (located on the website under “Alpine” then under “Education Materials”), and hand the completed workbook in the first morning of the module ___________________________________________________ Alpine Tech Team Tryouts Feb. 9 Location: Squaw Valley Feb. 28 Location: Mammoth A.M. Skiing assessment - Be prepared to show the following: demos and tasks for Certification Levels 1-3, dynamic skiing on-piste and in technical off-piste terrain. Candidates who meet the skiing requirement will be invited to present during the afternoon clinic skills assessment. Others may audit. Be prepared to perform movement analysis on your coparticipants and present a coaching tip to the group. Prerequisite: Please submit 2 weeks prior to the event an article suitable for publishing in “The Edge” and a letter of intent describing why you are applying for a position on the Technical Team.
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Children’s Events I am pleased to step into the position of PSIA/AASI-W children’s chair. Creating memorable, lasting experiences and turning children into lifetime snow sports enthusiasts is a rewarding and integral part of what we do as professionals. The upcoming season offers a variety of events at locations that will hopefully inspire all of our Western Division members to attend. The In-House program has been very Children’s Chair, Dan Ray. successful and will continue to make it convenient and accessible for instructors at every mountain to become active in the children’s program. The In-House program will continue to grow and spread the fun and knowledge the CS1 offers. The children’s program is continuing to adapt and change in order to allow for greater success and national standardization across all nine regions. These standards and changes can be found on the PSIA national website as well as our regional website. I look forward to continuing to institute a national standard in the Western Division and building upon the quality that the children’s program has come to represent.
Dan Ray Children’s Chair
Photo by Heidi Ettlinger.
Creating, memorable, lasting experiences. Photo by Heidi Ettlinger.
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Children’s Events Tricks for Teaching Children Jan. 13 Location: Squaw Valley Did the holidays drain your bag of tricks for teaching kids? This clinic is designed to give you some new ideas and ways to used them so that your bag of tricks can become bottomless. Learn how to use spider webbing and gain some ideas for working with kids that are struggling. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Children’s Supervisors and Trainers Event Feb. 1 Location: Northstar This event is designed for Children’s Supervisors, Coordinators and Trainers. You will do an in-depth discussion of child behavior, how it affects group lessons, parents’ behaviors, how to effectively deal with parents and special needs children in group lessons. Anybody participating in the Resort Trainers Series can join this clinic, and it is mandatory for anyone doing an in-house Children’s Specialist 1. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Children’s Specialist 2 Jan 25-27 Location: Snow Summit Feb. 7-9 Location: Alpine Meadows March 5-7 Location: Mammoth This is a 3 day event that assists instructors in designing and implementing creative, appropriate and movement oriented lesson plans for children 4-14. These lesson plans are focused at the high intermediate through expert level of the selected discipline. The idea is for the participants to demonstrate their ability to understand and use teaching principles provided in the Children’s Manual and other materials to develop polished and creative lesson plans. Each participant gives a full presentation lasting 45 minutes, with follow up feedback from the group on the last day of the course. Participants should have an in depth understanding of the CAP Model utilizing previous lesson experiences. Real vs. Ideal movement patterns at higher skill levels will be reviewed. Creative and experimental lesson planning will be emphasized. This course is very interactive Prerequisites: • Must be a Certified Level 2 or 3 Instructor (Alpine, Snowboard, Nordic, Adaptive), current with membership and actively working in a snowsports school. • Must have completed the Children’s Specialist 1* • Must complete the CS 2 Workbook (found at www.psia-w.org website under “Children” then under “Education Materials”) and deliver to the clinician on the first day of the event.
* (Level 2-3 certified instructors in any discipline may petition for special permission to skip the CS1 requirement. Exceptions will be considered on a ‘case by case’ basis.) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Children’s Specialist 1 Jan. 23-24 Location: Snow Summit Feb 27-28 Location: Snow Valley March 8-9 Location: Mammoth March 14-15 Location: Northstar April 14-15 Location: Convention This is a 2-day event that explores the CAP model (how kids think, move, and feel) and teaching progressions for children in different age zones. We will also explore children’s movement patterns “kids moveology”, and work on your own skiing/riding skills and improvement. On day 2 we cover building kid friendly teaching progressions with the Play Drill Adventure Summary method as well as focus on your own skiing/riding development. We’ll finish the day with informal group teaching presentations. This is a pass/fail event. Prerequisites: • Must be a Certified Level 1 Instructor, current with membership and actively working in a snowsports school. • Must download and complete the CS1 Workbook (found at www.psia-w.org website under “Children” then under “Education Materials”) it is handed in the first day of the event. • Read the Children’s Instruction Manual, second edition published 2008 (use to complete workbook, available at www. thesnowpros.org in the Accessories Catalog), the Children’s Instruction Manual, 1st edition, and the Alpine Entry Level Guide for Children’s Instruction (available on the National website).
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Nordic Certification & Events We will be starting off the 2011/12 season like a typhoon with our premier event, the Nordic Fall Symposium December 15 – 17, 2011 at Sugar Bowl. Kick off your ski season with some fun-filled frolicking in the home of cold, deep early season snow. Join the western gang of freeheelers for telemark clinics at Sugar Bowl, and cross country sessions at Auburn Ski Club and Royal Gorge. Ski hard, then go to bed early – NOT! Nordic Committee Chair Urmas Franosch. The festivities begin with an après ski social Thursday Dec. 15, 4:00 to ?? at the Oakland Ski Club lodge just under the gondola. Join us for music and general merriment provided by the Free Heel String Band (that includes you, if you can bring an instrument or carry a tune). Lodging at the OSC is $52 per night, plus $11 parking fee (snow removal) and includes a hearty breakfast and home cooked dinner. Those not spending the night can have dinner for $15. The folks at OSC will be hosting the Friday evening dinner/banquet which preceeds the Nordic membership meeting, and you guessed it – more music etc. We will get started around 6:00 pm. Go to http://oaklandskiclub.com for more information about the facility. But let’s not forget about the skiing! Event registration and telemark clinics will take place at the Judah Lodge in Sugar Bowl. Registration starts at 8:00 am, with clinic groups pulling out at 9:00. Cross country clinics will start at 9:30 to allow for travel. It will be possible to track ski in the morning, then tele in the afternoon, or vice versa. Telemark clinicians will include familiar virtuosos as well as some new talent: Eric Berlow, Geoff Clarke, Walter Edberg, Urmas Franosch, Kal Incendy, Jason Layh, Aaron Pearlman, Paul Petersen. Check the website, www.psia-w.org for information event updates on cross country clinicians and events updates and registration information. Nordic Committee reorganization: Over the summer our Nordic Committee elected new officers. I will serve as Committee Chair and Aaron Pearlman will take over as our Telemark Chief Examiner. Sally Jones will continue as our Cross Country Chief Examiner. Our hearty thanks to outgoing Chair Cedar Seeger and his efforts over the past seasons. I look forward to reconnecting with friends new and old at the Nordic Symposium. Come and share the stoke with the freeheel crew!
Urmas
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Nordic Fall Symposium to Take the Summit By Storm Clinic Topics Beg Intro to Telemark (Lets Get Started!) Part I Dec 15 pm Int Tracking Your Telemark Turns Dec 15 am Adv Advanced Mountain Tactics Dec 15 am Beg Intro to Telemark (Lets Get Started!) part II Dec 15 pm Int “You Want Some Feedback?” Dec 15 pm Adv Smoother Groomers (The Carve) Dec 15 pm Int Filling Up Your Coaching “Bag of Tricks” Dec 16 am Int/Adv Terrain and Conditions Dictate Skills and Position Int Coaching with Video Analysis Dec 16 pm Adv Advanced Mountain Tactics Dec 16 pm Int Intermediate Breakthroughs Dec 17 am Int/Adv “Switch” it Up for Better Balance Dec 17 am Int Moving onto Black Diamonds Dec 17 pm Adv “You Want Some Feedback?” Dec 17 pm
Check the website, www.psia-w.org for information on cross country clinicians and events. Go to the website for detailed up to date information and to register. Meet your friends and make some new o ones at the Nordic Symposium where you can tune up your skiing for the winter, and share the stoke with the freeheel crew!
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Nordic Certification & Events Level 2/3 Cross Country Prep Clinic Jan. 11 L2/3 XC Prep Location: Tahoe Donner This clinic is mandatory for those seeking certification. This one day event covers skiing maneuvers, tasks, and demonstrations, as well as hypothetical and movement analysis based teaching scenarios on snow. Comprehensive verbal feedback will be offered throughout the day. For more information please refer to the PSIA-W Cross Country Handbook downloadable free from psia-w.org. _______________________________________________ Level 2 and 3 Telemark Prep Clinics Jan. 31-Feb.1 L2 Telemark Prep Location: Alpine Meadows Feb. 2-3 L3 Telemark Prep Location: Squaw Valley These clinics are mandatory for those seeking certification. Each clinic consists of 2 days on snow. The first day will be spent covering skiing maneuvers, tasks and demonstrations. On day 2 participants will practice teaching skills in hypothetical and movement analysis based formats as well as with a volunteer student. Comprehensive verbal feedback will be offered throughout the clinic. For more information please refer to the PSIA-W Telemark Handbook downloadable free from psia-w.org. ____________________________________________________
Nordic Fall Symposium Dec. 15-17 Location: Sugar Bowl The Nordic fall symposium is THE big event of the season for cross country and Telemark instructors! A variety of skiing and teaching oriented topics will be offered for intermediate and advanced skiers, as well as level 1 and 2 exam prep clinics (see below for descriptions of these). An après ski social and banquet with general membership meeting round out the agenda. This is a great opportunity to tune up your skills for the season and become acquainted with your fellow Western division Nordic instructors. Check psia-w.org in mid November for a schedule of clinics. ______________________________________________ Level 1 Exam Prep Clinics (X-C and Telemark) Dec. 16 XC Prep Location: Auburn Ski Club Dec. 16 Telemark Prep Location: Sugar Bowl Jan. 10 XC Prep Location: Tahoe Donner Feb. 4 Telemark Prep Location: China Peak These clinics are mandatory for those seeking certification. The history, purpose, and philosophy of PSIA will be covered indoors the first hour. For the remainder of the day, skiing maneuvers, tasks and demonstrations will be covered on snow, as will hypothetical and movement analysis based teaching scenarios. Participants will be involved as teachers and students. Comprehensive verbal feedback will be offered throughout the day. For more information please refer to the PSIA-W Cross Country and Telemark Handbooks downloadable free from psia-w.org.
All Exams Jan. 30 L1 Telemark Exam Location: Sierra at Tahoe March 5 LI Telemark Exam Location: Alpine Meadows March 6-7 L2 Telemark Exam Location: Squaw Valley March 8-9 L3 Telemark Exam Location: Alpine Meadows March 20 L1 XC Exam Location: Tahoe Donner March 21 L2/3 XC Exam Location: Tahoe Donner Exam formats are identical to prep clinics with regard to number of days, and proportions devoted to skiing and teaching. Comprehensive verbal feedback will be offered throughout the exam. For more information please refer to the PSIA-W Cross Country and Telemark Handbooks downloadable free from psia-w.org.
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Senior Events Earlier this season I came across these great words of wisdom: “No coach regardless of age should give up the quest to be a better skier. We all reach a point where it’s unrealistic to think we can be faster racers. But we can still acquire new skills and become better skiers in a variety of ways. If you assume you have a hundred years to live, you get 1% older each year. Ski equipment gets 2% better each year. For all skiers a net gain is possible.” by Warren Witherell - From his book “The Athletic Skier” When Warren wrote these words, he was a ski coach in his late 50’s. Although his advice was directed to ski coaches, his words ring true for ski instructors as well. The best way to keep your enthusiasm and the fire in your belly for our sport is to keep learning, expanding your horizons and improving your skiing and teaching. We are all members of the PSIA/AASI Division that is on the cutting edge of Senior Skiing Development and Education. If you teach a lot of seniors (50 yrs+) or if you are a senior instructor, take advantage of our senior training and accreditation programs. Recommended reading for all the courses listed below is the Senior Handbook on the PSIA/AASI-W website at www.psia-w.org. For the Level I and Level II Accreditations complete the online test and bring it with you to the event. You can find our Senior Handbook on the PSIAW website at www.psia-w.org. Also check out the National Seniors skiing website at www. seniorsnowsports.org. See you on the snow, and whatever you do, KEEP SKIING!
Ted Pitcher
Ted Pitcher, Senior Chair. Photo courtesy of Aaron Rosen.
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Senior Events Level 1 Senior Specialist Accreditation Jan 26-27 Location: Mountain High March 4-5 Location: Snow Valley March 5-6 Location: Sugar Bowl March 29-30 Location: Mountain High April 14-15 Location: Northstar /Spring Convention This event is designed for Level 1 certified Alpine instructors. This two day event encompasses skiing improvement, video analysis and senior skiing and teaching models for beginning and intermediate senior skiers. Your teaching will be evaluated the afternoon of the second day (no skiing test). Successful candidates will receive our Senior Specialist Level 1 pin. ______________________________________________
Here’s a list of what’s coming up! Introduction to Teaching Seniors One day event. Jan 9 Location: Mountain High Feb 7 Location: Northstar Feb 27 Location: Mountain High This clinic is open to any member of any age, no certification required. This clinic will introduce you to the Teaching Model as applied to seniors and the Skiing Model as applied to seniors. In addition to learning about teaching seniors, you will be individually coached on your own personal skiing. ___________________________________________________ Level 2 Senior Specialist Accreditation March 18-20 Location: Snow Summit March 26-28 Location: Diamond Peak This senior event is the “grand daddy”! The first Senior Specialist Accreditation in the country. If you are a Level 2 or Level 3 certified instructor of any age, you are eligible to take this 3 day event encompassing skiing improvement, video analysis, skiing and teaching models for intermediate and advanced senior skiers. Your teaching will be evaluated on the third day. (There is no skiing test). Successful candidates will receive our Senior Specialist Level 2 Pin. ______________________________________________
Senior Mastery of Skiing, Skiing improvement- open to all members. Two day eventMarch 11-12 Location: Bear Mountain March 19-20 Location: Heavenly April 14-15 Location: Northstar / Spring Convention This is a popular two day skiing improvement event open to any member regardless of certification level. This fun educational event is aimed at senior instructors who want to ski longer, stronger and better. We will work with you to help you understand how good contemporary technique and equipment can improve your skiing, and help you ski more efficiently with less strain and effort. Groups will be divided by terrain and ability to make this an optimum learning experience for you. You will be individually coached and analyzed on video to help you become a better skier. It’s all about the skiing and all about the fun!
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Snowboarding Certification & Events Do you feel it? The buzz in the air is the winter fast approaching. This season many of our Division’s most talented are in the full swing of preparation and training to tryout for a new National Demo Team. The tryouts are an opportunity for these riders to push themselves to their full potential as instructors, but also generate an important energy for AASI Western Division as a whole. They drive us to improve our riding, strive to give the best clinics out on the hill, guide the progress of our fellow members, and create a stoke towards forming new personal relationships with fellow riders. The Western Demo Team is composed of Joshua Thompson-Bourrie, Chris Hargrave, Steve Bethell, Dustin DeNike, Jeb Scicluna, Seth Johns and myself, Doug Fagel, as well as current National Team Member Josh Spoelstra. The Western Snowboard Demo Team Coaches are Blair McLeod and Stu Rea. These members have shown the highest level of diversified riding and coaching abilities. As a Western Team Member they are committed to an on-going personal and professional training program that incorporates fitness with professional abilities. Keep an eye out for them at all our special events this season. Also, your school can take advantage of this expertise. Have your Director or Head Trainer contact them or any of the Tech Staff to schedule your Member Schools events!! Jump on the wagon and start your training for the season now! This season you will see the some exciting Ed events on the calendar; SoCal Winter Session, Resort Trainer Course, and Intro to Freestyle Courses are on the lineup to help you continue to work towards your next achievement. A number of Certification training events are scheduled throughout the year to help you succeed in your pursuit for that next level pin. The Specialist programs will give you a path to follow to develop your skills as a Children’s Educator, Freestyle Coach or Staff Trainer. Fellow snowboarder Chris Lange will once again coordinate our big event, Spring Convention, as he steps up the game once again to put on the best event in our Division’s history. Make sure to give him a shout if you see him for all the hard work he puts in year around for that special event. For all those new instructors out there, it is important to know that you must have 20 hours of snowboard teaching experience in order to achieve Level 1 Certification. If you want to sit a Level 1 Certification event and do not have your required teaching hours we will offer the Six-Day Level 1 Module for you to get your training early in the season. Make sure to get your hands on a copy of the AASI West Snowboard Certification Handbook, the best resource for training you and your fellow staff members for Certification advancement!
I hope you’re prepared for another epic season in the West! - Doug
Doug Fagel, Snowboard Chair.
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Snowboarding Certification & Events Educational Clinics Women’s Development Day Mar. 24 Location: Squaw Get ready to push yourself! It will be a ladies only event lead by the top female trainers in AASI West. This is a clinic designed to develop some tactics and skills to continue progressing at a charging level of riding. Riding with a team of ladies can often push you to try things that you may have never considered. Squaw Valley can offer steeps, park, half-pipe, and pretty much whatever the crew wants to ride. It is also a great opportunity to bounce ideas around to help any of you trainers out there come away with some tools to help inspire female instructors at your home mountains. Wherever we end up riding on the mountain, we will be focusing on building strength, but may be having too much fun to even notice. ______________________________________________
Special Events: Resort Trainer Course Dec. 11-12 Location: Alpine Meadows Jan. 22-23 Location: Snow Summit (SoCal Winter Session) Prerequisites: Must be at least an AASI Level 2 Certified Instructor. Develop your skills as a trainer. Work with the division’s leading educators to enhance your ability to lead a quality clinic for your fellow staff members. Stay up to speed on the exam standards to train instructors working towards their next level of certification. Meet the prerequisites for being a Trainer for the Level 1 in-house program. Train towards becoming a Divisional Trainer and ride with the educators at the core of our organization. _______________________________________________ SoCal Winter Session Jan. 22-23 Location: Snow Summit Open to all members, this is a great event to connect with your fellow Southern California instructors and work with the top AASI educators in the West. Get a jump start on your progressions as you take part in a variety of clinics ranging from riding improvement, teaching techniques, certification prep, and freestyle riding. This nonstop two-day event brings the excitement of the Convention into an early season full-on snowboarder shred session. Make sure to get yourself to this event to show the Division just exactly what SoCal has to offer.
Also, check out our new Two-Day Freestyle Intro Course under Educational Clinics!! - Doug
Intro to Freestyle Course Jan 26-27 Location: Northstar This Two-Day Course will enable instructors of all ages and ability levels to learn the core foundations of freestyle. Instructors will learn how to understand and manage terrain parks on their own and with their students. By breaking down the features and the maneuvers to their most basic elements we can guarantee that every participant will walk away having made huge steps toward confidence in riding and teaching in and around the park and pipe. This clinic promises an injury and pain free approach to learning and teaching all the basics. From boxes to airs to pipe, participants will have an amazingly fun experience. Two consecutive days will give you the ability to progress like never before without the pressure of meeting a standard in regards to teaching or riding. _______________________________________________
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Snowboarding Certification & Events Half Pipe & Park Freestyle Coaching Mar. 12 Location: Boreal Improve your progression building and overall coaching skills in the half pipe and terrain park. This is more than just adding a few tricks to your bag but creates a foundation for you to build progressions for your own and your student’s riding. This single day event is for any instructor that wants to grow as a coach in the areas of freestyle snowboarding while out on the hill having a blast with other riders that love showing off their style. _______________________________________________ Advanced Riding Development Feb. 27 Location: Squaw Progress your riding in all types of terrain. Improve your abilities in using range of motion and timing to generate board performance. Use blended skills to develop strong riding skills. This is an ideal event for riders that are training for the Level 3 Snowboard Certification. Riders must be willing and able to safely ride the most challenging terrain available at the resort prior to enrolling in this educational event. _______________________________________________ Steeps Riding Feb. 3 Location: Kirkwood Push your riding in the steeps while improving your skills and learning a new tactical approach to steep terrain. By learning the use of a variety of movement patterns the steep terrain can become a more comfortable place. As skills are improved through the use of effective movement patterns related to timing, the riders control in steep environments can be quickly improved. This clinic is a good choice for instructors training for the Level 3 Certification or who just want to step up their game in the steeps and short radius turning tasks. _______________________________________________ Movement Analysis: Progression Building Mar. 13 Location: Alpine Meadows Improve your skills in Movement Analysis by finding the root cause in the performance effects of a snowboarder’s riding. Clinic will cover cause and effect relationships and how to prioritize what is needed to develop quality progressions. Using MA to build your progressions will improve your student’s experiences, help train your eye and prepare you for the next level of Certification. Use this clinic to prepare for your Teaching Module or just keep your instructor eye sharp. This clinic is ideal for members training for Level 2 and Level 3 Certification. _______________________________________________ L2 & L3 Certification Training Jan. 25 Location: Alpine Meadows Success at advancing your level of certification comes from quality training. This training day covers your specific needs
to be successful in the certification process. Led by the Tech Team Staff that will be giving the exams, this is the best place to get the right training to set you on the right path towards achieving your goal. This event will cover both riding and teaching standards for the Level 2 and Level 3 Certification, dependant on the needs of the participants. _______________________________________________ L2 & L3 Teach Training Feb. 16 Location: Northstar-at-Tahoe (L2 Only) Mar. 16 Location: Squaw Valley Apr. 9 Location: Northstar-at-Tahoe Prepare for the Teaching Module by working with one of the examiners prior to the certification cvent. This is the best opportunity to strengthen your weaknesses and fine-tune your presentations before the Teaching Module. Those that arrive the most prepared for the Teaching Module get the most out of it and have the most enjoyable experience. Get feedback on your progressions, work on your movement analysis skills and hone your pro knowledge. Invest in your success! This is a “must do” event for anyone training for the Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Modules.
Snowboard Specialist Programs Freestyle Specialist Level 1 Feb. 6-7 Location: Mammoth Mar. 1-2 Location: Bear Mountain Mar. 19-20 Location: Northstar-at-Tahoe April 13-14 Location: Northstar-at-Tahoe Prerequisites: Must have at least an AASI Level 1 Certification, an understanding of teaching and coaching concepts, a willingness and ability to perform the required freestyle maneuvers, and the completion of Level 1 Freestyle Accreditation Workbook.
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Snowboarding Certification & Events The Level 1 Accreditation consists of two days of training. Each day requires on hill activities that are educational as well as interactive. The first day covers the content and maneuvers required to successfully complete the course. The second day consists of an accreditation evaluation where candidates demonstrate their teaching/coaching abilities in action. A solid understanding and application of skills must be shown in order to successfully complete the course. You need to arrive to the first day of the event with a completed Level 1 Workbook. _______________________________________________ Freestyle Specialist Level 2 Mar. 14-16 Location: Northstar-at-Tahoe Prerequisites: Must have at least an AASI Level 1 Certification and the Snowboard Level 1 Freestyle Accreditation or at an AASI Level 2 or Level 3 Certification, a thorough understanding of the teaching and coaching concepts, a willingness and ability to perform the required freestyle maneuvers, and the completion of the Level 2 Freestyle Accreditation Workbook. The Level 2 Accreditation consists of three days of training. Each day requires on-hill activities that are educational as well as interactive. The first two days take a deep look into the field of freestyle education. Participants will need to be able to show their skills in freestyle arenas as well as an ability to teach to a broad type of age groups and learning styles. The third day of this course puts the candidates in the forefront so that they can give real life coaching to other candidates and trainers. Understanding and application of skills must be shown in order to successfully complete the course. You need to arrive to the first day of the event with a completed Level 2 Workbook. _______________________________________________ Divisional Trainer Program Prep 1 - Jan. 20 Location: Mammoth Prep 2 - Mar. 7 Location: Squaw Valley Exam - Mar. 26-27 Location: Squaw Valley Prerequisites: Participants must have an current AASI Level 3 Certification, be employed by an AASI-West Member School, have a thorough understanding of teaching methodology, have experience training snowboard instructors, and have a willingness and ability to meet the demands of being an on & off hill trainer and presenter. The Divisional Trainer Accreditation consists of two prep days and a two-day exam. Prep Day 1: The first prep event will introduce material relative to being an effective trainer, giving participants an introduction to some training theory and concepts. It is expected that candidates will be involved in training programs at their home resorts and that they will have ample opportunity to put these concepts into practice. This will help candidates to develop their own style of training, and help to make them proficient at communicating more complex theories to their trainees. Prep Day 2: The second prep event will require the candidates each present a short clinic to the rest of the group. The group will then give constructive feedback, directed
by the clinician. At the end of this day, each candidate will receive feedback both on training abilities and ability to give constructive feedback. This evaluation will be a good test of ones abilities for the real world experience as a Divisional Trainer. Exam: The exam will be a two-day event that will evaluate the candidates ability to train, analyze skills, demonstrate knowledge of the material presented, and an evaluation of their riding skills. In Day One the candidate will give a clinic of their choice (appropriate to the group). On Day Two the candidates will give a clinic designated by the examiner (similar to what would be required in a real training situation). Candidates will be given their results at the end of the day, and a presentation will follow after all of the individual feedback has been covered.
Snowboard Certifications Level 1 Module, Three-Day Jan. 10-12 Location: Heavenly Feb. 6-8 Location: Mammoth Mar. 16-18 Location: Snow Valley Apr. 16-18 Location: Squaw Valley Prerequisites: Must be a registered member, be at least 16 years of age, be willing and able to perform needed riding requirements, have twenty hours of logged snowboard teaching experience and have completed the Level 1 Workbook. This three day Certification Module is an evaluation of the candidate’s skills and knowledge as well as an educational based event. The module gives all candidates a stronger understanding and ability to apply the teaching, learning, riding and service concepts. Riders must be comfortable on all blue, basic black and freestyle terrain. Candidates will be required to show proficiency in meeting the required riding, teaching and movement analysis standards. _______________________________________________ Level 1 Module, Six-Day Dec. 4-9 Location: Squaw Valley Prerequisites: Must be a registered member, be at least 16 years of age, be willing and able to perform needed riding requirements. This six-day Certification Module is the perfect course for those that are new to snowboard education and may not be working at a snow sports school in the Western Division. This training based event gives all candidates a stronger understanding and ability to apply the teaching, learning, riding and service concepts. Participants will be given an evaluation of the their skills and knowledge based on the Level 1 Certification Standards. Successful participants will receive a certificate of completion and will have the current season and following season to complete the required 20 hours of experience required becoming a Level 1 Certified Instructor. _______________________________________________
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Snowboarding Certification & Events Level 1 In-House Program This program may be held at your resort. Check with your resort supervisor or trainer for details. Prerequisites: Must be a registered member, be at least 16 years of age, have twenty hours of teaching experience, be willing and able to perform needed riding requirements. The Level 1 In-House Program is offered and run by a Member School Resort. In this course candidates attend weekly trainings to develop proficiency in all areas of the Level 1 Standards. The participants must be a member of AASI West during their training and register for the final validation, which facilitated by an outside AASI West Examiner. Resorts conducting the Level 1 In-House Program must be lead by an AASI West Resort Trainer that has gone through the yearly Resort Trainers Course. _______________________________________________ Level 2 Riding Module Jan. 30-31 Location: Northstar-at-Tahoe Feb. 13-14 Location: Mammoth Mar. 5-6 Location: Squaw Valley Mar. 8-9 Location: Bear Mountain Prerequisites: Must have earned the AASI Level 1 Certification at least one season prior, must be employed by an AASI-West Member School, must be current in educational requirements and dues, must be willing and able to safely perform needed riding requirements, and have the professional knowledge to understand and execute riding instructions relevant to the standards. The two-day Riding Module will offer coaching to the candidates to further develop skills and techniques as well as evaluate the candidate’s ability to consistently meet the riding standards. The candidates will need to be able to ride in a variety of terrain; see the AASI West Certification Handbook for more details. Candidates that pass will be eligible to attend the Level 2 Teaching Module. Candidates must complete the Teaching Module in the season the Riding Module was passed or the season after. _______________________________________________ Level 2 Teaching Module Feb. 29-Mar. 2 Location: Northstar-at-Tahoe Mar. 21-23 Location: Mammoth Mar. 28-30 Location: Snow Summit Apr. 16-18 Location: Squaw Valley Prerequisites: The Candidate must have successfully passed the Level 2 Riding Module in the current season or season prior, completed a current written exam and brought a printed copy it to the first day of the event, as well as be current in dues for AASI-West. In the three-day, Level 2 Teaching Module successful candidates will show the ability to apply and analyze the areas of snowboard teaching included but not limited to; Movement Analysis, Teaching Scenarios, Professional Knowledge, Proper Demonstrations, Children’s Education, use of all aspects of the Snowboard Teaching System, and Professional Etiquette
and Safety. The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to teach a spectrum of riders, children to adult, up to and including black terrain and freestyle features. To take this course the candidate will have already passed the riding portion of the exam. Candidates are expected to utilize proper demonstration skills in their riding to facilitate success in teaching scenarios; this includes the areas of riding that may have not been able to be fully assessed in the riding module due to weather or lack of certain terrain arenas; e.g. half pipe and park riding. _______________________________________________ Level 3 Riding Module Feb. 13-14 Location: Mammoth Mar. 5-6 Location: Squaw Valley Prerequisites: Must have earned the AASI Level 2 Certification at least one season prior, must be employed by an AASI-West Member School, must be current in educational requirements and dues, must be willing and able to safely perform needed riding requirements, and have the professional knowledge to understand and execute riding instructions relevant to the standards. The Two-day Riding Module will offer coaching to the candidates to further develop skills and technique as well as evaluate the candidate’s ability to consistently meet the riding standards. The candidates will need to be able to ride in a variety of terrain; see AASI West Certification Handbook for more details. Candidates must demonstrate multiple movement patterns to show desired outcomes. Candidates that pass are eligible to attend the Level 3 Teaching Module. Candidates must complete the Teaching Module in the season the Riding Module was passed or the season after. _______________________________________________ Level 3 Teaching Module Mar. 21-23 Location: Mammoth Apr. 16-18 Location: Squaw Valley Prerequisites: The candidate must have successfully passed the Level 3 Riding Module in the current season or season prior, completed a current written exam and submitted it to the Snowboard VP no later than the two-week event registration deadline, as well as be current in dues for AASI-West. In the three-day, Level 3 Teaching Module successful candidates will show the ability to synthesize and evaluate the areas of snowboard teaching included but not limited to; Movement Analysis, Teaching Scenarios, Professional Knowledge, Proper Demonstrations, Children’s Education, use of all aspects of the Snowboard Teaching System, and Professional Etiquette and Safety. The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to teach and coach his or her peers on any available terrain with evident change in his or her peer’s riding. To take this course the candidate will have already passed the riding portion of the exam. Candidates are expected to utilize proper demonstration skills in their riding to facilitate success in teaching scenarios; this includes all areas of the required riding standards.
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PSIA-W Education Foundation Every Way You Analyze It, It’s a Turn for the Better Phase one: the initiation. Crossover, moving forward and inside is our move! The By-Laws for the Education Foundation were updated and approved this summer. The procedural changes reflected in the new By-Laws will allow us to move forward with focus and vision to support education programs for the membership of PSIA/AASI-W. The Education Foundation is a non-profit tax-exempt California Corporation in good standing, Federal ID #77-0381837. This standing allows donors to make tax free contributions but also requires us to operate at a very high level of ethics and transparency. Phase two: control. The Education Foundation provides the oversight for fundraising and distribution of funds. Currently, three PSIA/AASI-W board members oversee the Ed. Foundation. Steve Evenson serves as Treasurer, Bryan Schilling as Secretary and Vice-President and Greg Lyons as President. We have spent the summer reconfiguring our administrative systems. Most members are familiar with our scholarship program. The Education foundation gave out 22 scholarships in the 2010/2011 snowsport season. A second area of distribution is educational material projects that will benefit the entire membership of PSIA/ AASI-W. Some of the long-time members of our division may remember the Master Plan, which was funded out of the Foundation. We are excited about funding innovative educational material projects to for example, updated videos of exam tasks and demos to assist exam candidates for PSIA/AASI exams. This year we have the capability to consider directed giving. With a minimum of a $5,000
With your help we can grow the Education Foundation into a valuable resource for all instructors. Photo courtesy of Terry Peters.
donation, an individual, Corporation or group of donors can play a role is designing a scholarship or program supporting the Association. To award money, the Education Foundation needs to generate money. We are taking a fresh look at our fund-raising events, such as the golf tournament and silent auction. We are also exploring partnerships with local and national sponsors whose products and services are compatible with the integrity of the PSIA/AASIW-brand. Most of our funding comes from members. This past season we had nearly 75 of our members make contributions in support of the Education Fund, from $1 to $100. Phase three: the finish. PSIA/AASI-W is fortunate to have had generous, forward thinking guidance over the years. From the newbies to the
veterans, the part-timers to the lifers the Foundation’s purpose is to help fulfill the dreams of our members in the snowsport industry. Basically, it is a turn toward the future, anticipating opportunity and the fiscal terrain ahead. Every way you analyze it, it’s a turn for the better. You can Help: Donate! Contact the office if you would like to donate dollars or raffle items for Convention.
Bring your knowledge of fundraising, donor development ideas, and passion to help grow the Education Foundation to the Fundraising Committee. The Fundraising Committee chair is Greg Lyons: email lyonsgm@juno.com
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Education Foundation Golf Tournament 5th Annual Education Foundation and Sodergren Golf Tournament was a success! Thirty two golfers teed up at the Northstar course on a beautiful late September morning for the 5th Annual Education Foundation Golf Tournament. Conditions were perfect and over $1000 was raised for the PSIA-W Education Foundation. The day’s action included a Hole in One by Kenny Pavey, of the South Shore Schmucks on the par 3 hole # 13. The Schmucks, Pavey, Tony Gooding, Steve Clothier and Len Holmgren.went on to take the tournament with a smokin’ team score of 55. The two closest to the hole winners were Ron Blum 3’ 3” on hole # 3 and Greg Lyons 3’1” on hole number 15. In addition to precision Ken Pavey could muscle the ball. He won the long drive contest on hole # 7. Samson Smith and Micheal Pelster were our first official PSIA/AASIW snowboard participants. The big distance travelers were Dan Kleiner who flew in from LA and Dave Patrone who drove from San Diego the night prior to the event. The Bear Valley team of Merrill Windsor, Jerry Fouts, Mike Denicola and Dicki Klingenberg had smoother traveling this year. Last year they drove through rain and rockfalls to make it. The Education Foundation gives a big thank you to the participants and donors to the raffle, Kenny Pavey’s hole-in-one was the first in tournament history. including the San Francisco Giants, Edgewood Golf course, Alpine Meadows, Sandra Breylinger, Mammoth, Snow Valley, Goode poles, Chris Felhosting. Lastly a big thank you goes out to the Rick lows, author of Total Skiing, K2, Tahoe Sports LTD, Raduziner, Bob Hass, Jon Jacobsen, Aaron Rosen and Sean Warman Images and Concepts video’s, Tomas Dan Kleiner. Prochazka with Scenic Tandem Paragliding, Empire Golf, Tahoe Donner Golf and Genoa Lakes Golf. Sincerely, The entire staff at Northstar was extremely helpGreg Lyons ful but a special thanks to Pete Smith for generous PSIA/AASI-W Education Foundation President
Run for PSIA/AASI-W Board of Directors Candidate Statements are due by Jan. 20th, 2012 to be considered. Qualifications: member in good standing, and a willingness to work hard for the membership. Send your statement of approximately 300 words and a ‘head shot’ to the PSIA/AASI office, mdion@psia-w.org. Directors are elected by a vote of the membership. Successful candidates will earn a three year term.
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Education Foundation Where your donations go. Last season we raised nearly $ 10,900 through direct donations and through our various fundraisers and events. Special thanks to Ceci Chourre for her efforts at the Silent Auction at Mammoth in April. In addition, our investment accounts appreciated by $ 3630. We awarded scholarships in the amount of $2810 from the Sodergren Fund and $ 2870 from the Education Fund.
Congratulations to last season’s scholarship recipients: From the Sodergren Fund Pam Baker, Bear Mountain, Robin Keith Baird, Snow Valley and Lindsey Stevens, Heavenly who were awarded a scholarship to attend Spring Convention. In addition the following members of the Association were awarded a Sodergren Scholarship to attend the National 50 year celebration: Marcel Barel, 50 year member, Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard School
Rusty Crook, 50 year member, Mt. Rose Robert A. Davis, 50 year member, retired Ken Kaneda, 50 year member, retired Ken Mattson, Squaw Valley Ron Parody, 50 year member, Mt. High From the Education Fund Guillermo Alvarez, Sierra at Tahoe, Alp L2 Teac Dave Bennett, Squaw Valley, Nordic Tele L2 Ivana Burkett, Heavenly, Alp L3 Teach Joshua Byer, Mammoth, Alp L3 Teach Lisa Chester, Snow Valley, Alp L2 Prep day Jenna Curcio, DSUSA FW, Alp L1 Alex De Pottere, Alpine Meadows, Alp L2 Ski Amid Gilda, Mammoth, CS1 Teresa Jones, Kirkwood, SB L3 Teach Michelle La Gore-Phillips, Snow Summit, SB L2 Ride Daniel Macy, Dodge Ridge, Alp L1 ski Sean Moughan, Bear Mtn, SB L3 Teach Gary Nordell, Mt. Shasta, Alp L2 Prep day John Westmoreland, Mammoth, Alp L2 Teach John Yeung, Mt. Baldy, CS1
PSIA W Ski Education Foundation
PSIA - Western Division – AASI 9709 Hwy. 267, Truckee, CA 96161 (530) 587-7642, Fax: (530) 587-4273 Email: info@psia-w.org Website: www.psia-w.org ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
PSIA-W/AASI-W Board of Directors & Officers 2011/12 Officers: President Executive Vice President Alpine VP Snowboard VP PSIA Nat’l Board Rep Past President
Carl Underkoffler Greg Lyons Elianne Furtney Doug Fagel Neil Bussiere Neil Bussiere
Directors: Neil Bussiere (14), Heidi Ettlinger (14), Steve Evenson (12), Doug Fagel (13), Steve Fengler (13), Elianne Furtney (12), Chris Lange (12), Greg Lyons (13), Ted Pitcher (12), Dan Ray (14), Bryan Schilling (14), Carl Underkoffler (13). Nordic Chairperson: Urmas Franosch Adaptive Chairperson: Glen Smith
April 13-15 at Northstar Try out our ‘Convention cocktail’ this spring, a mix of great sliding and clinics with PSIA/AASI’s best, apres ski fun and a healthy portion of camaraderie and learning with your fellow instructors from throughout the Division.
Registration information coming in early 2012.
Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Sacramento, CA Permit No.1704