Race Training
Training for the team is conducted through The French Swiss Ski College at Appalachian Ski Mtn. The training participants are grouped into like groups based on a combination of abilities and age. During these practice sessions the kids will spend 1 & ½ hours working with their coach. The time will be divided between running gates and working on developing their skiing skills working outside of the gates.
- Race Team Registration Form [PDF]
To sign up for any of these training opportunities please contact:
French Swiss Ski College at Appalachian Ski Mtn.
ofcmgr@skifrenchswiss.com
828-295-9311
http://www.skifrench-swiss.com
Formal Practice Sessions
The December workshops begin our training with two hour sessions. These workshops will feature small groups of about ten skiers with lots of individual feedback, time in the gates, and time working outside the gates. These days will offer a special grouping for new racers wanting to try out ski racing.
Our regular practice sessions are on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings starting in January. These sessions meet in small groups of about ten racers. The participants are grouped into like groups based on a combination of abilities and age. During these practice sessions the kids will spend 1 & ½ hours working with their coach. The time will be divided between running gates and working on developing their skiing skills working outside of the gates.
Extra Gate Time
On weekly basis during the race season there will be additional opportunities to train in the gates. These informal training sessions are not in small organized groups but instead skiers will work at their own pace, making run after run through the gates. These afternoons are the best opportunity to get lots of time in the gates and work on the skills being taught in the formal practice sessions.
These sessions are open to any member of the team who has signed up for training through the French Swiss Ski College. Racers are welcome to come to one or to every session; to come early or to come late. We meet on the snow at the gates.
The dates and times for these free sessions will be posted on the ski team’s calendar.
How to get the most out of training
Ski lots!!! The kids who improve the most are the ones who are given the opportunity to ski lots. Aside from getting miles under their feet, the next most important element to improving one’s skiing is spending time practicing. Each racer will be given feedback during practice. The kids who can remember their coach’s remarks and incorporate that feedback into their skiing will see the best results.
Bad Weather?
Typically practices happen regardless of weather. If Appalachian Ski Mtn. is open we will try to have practice. If it is bitterly cold, the coaches will take the kids inside for brief warm ups. If it is raining we get wet. If it is snowing we get happy. The best skiers can ski in all conditions. We want to become the best skier we can, so we will ski in everything. Please note that athletes must be able to ride the chair lift independently or have a chaperone accompany them to practices and races.
