Youth Programs

Faster Skiers are made in the summer

Summer Training 2009 Update

Summer Training
Pictured: L-R: Ellen Wiitala, Katy Lafayette, Eric Wagner, Shayle Murray, Blake Murray, Marty Gray, Andrew Twohey, Coach Matt Weier (missing from photo: skiers Zach Wagner, John McFadden, Mike McFadden, Ashton Guidebeck, Sydney Landers)

Summer training sessions have been going well. We have had about nine or ten skiers per practice session. The training sessions have largely been focused on technique, specific ski strength, speed, some intervals and technique (mentioning technique twice for emphasis).

Dryland sessions (off of rollerskis) this year has emphasized agility training using “spenst” style workouts, speed work on trails and uneven terrain, and soccer games. We have also incorporated a bit of yoga for skiers with stretching, stability, strength and relaxation routines with guest instructor Mary Connor.

We have also been giving them suggested workouts to do on their own for the days of the week when we do not meet. Those workouts focus on endurance/distance training and basic strength.

Medals Test

Here is a copy of our skier report card. It summarizes the athletes results for USSA's Medals Test, which is comprised of a series of upper body strength tests and a 3000 meter run on a track. These results are for them to measure their own progress throughout the summer and fall. We will do another test at the end of the summer and again when we start fall training in October. The graph on the page represents a simple fitness test that measures how fit they are by determining how well they manage fatigue over progressively faster running. Its a pretty rudimentary test, but gives us coaches useful results.

20009/2010 Program Details coming soon.

Program Details

Release and Waiver of Liability

2008/2009 Youth Program Registration Form

Ski Cats $45.00

Head Coach: Andrew Rickauer (226-3142)

Coordinator: Carrie Pearson (228-4465)

Ages: 5—10 Ability: Beginner to intermediate

When: Sundays (2:30—4 pm), January 4,11,18 February 1,8,15; March 1,8

Where: Noquemanon Forestville Trailhead Participants receive instruction in classical technique (some freestyle offered). Instruction in fundamental skills and maneuvers through ski games and activities with peers.

Adventure Club $45.00

Contact: Craig Stien (226-7002) Ages: 11—18

Ability: Beginning to Advanced Recreational

When: Sundays (2:30 - 4 pm) January 4,11,18 February 1,8,15; March 1,8

Where: Multiple trail venues Learn to ski, hang out with friends on snow, get more fit, explore adventure skiing.

Prep Team $125.00

Contact: Dan Wiitala (249-4332)

Ages: 11-18

Ability: Beginner to Advanced Competitive

When: Tues. & Thurs. after school, Sun. afternoons

Where: Multiple venues Improve technique (classical style and/or skating), develop endurance, fitness, and skills with an eye toward competition

The Prep Team works on improving both classic and skating techniques (both ski-types required) and developing endurance and fitness within an atmosphere of fun. Jr. Noque registration included.

Race Team $350.00

Head Coach: Andrew Moore

Assistant Coach/Contact: Matt Weier (869-7397)

Ages: 13-18 (J3—OJ USSA levels)

Ability: Competitive

When: November—March

Where: Multiple Trail Venues Events: Michigan High School Championships; Jr. Marathon events, Junior Olympic qualifiers and Junior Nationals..

Geared towards racing and high school athletic competition. The team will meet 3 to 6 days per week for training for and racing at competitions throughout the Midwest

Youth Committee

The youth committee has been meeting regularly to get the season going. Some changes are being considered. Any member is welcome to attend and help with the planning. Check the message board for meeting minutes and news about the search for a new head coach.