U10 programming is designed to build a strong foundation of fundamentals and a passion for ski racing. Focusing on fun and challenge, participants are exposed to a variety of learning situations designed to build confidence and desire for more! Structured, technical free-skiing, woods/powder skiing, gate drills and gate training are part of any practice.
Racing introduction will focus predominantly on giant slalom, with an emphasis on teaching participants how to prepare for and react to the challenges of competition.
Important Information
Ages: 8 & 9 (before January 1)
Program Dates: December 2, 2023 – March 31, 2024
Training Hours: 1:30pm – 4:00pm on Fridays (optional) and 9:00am – 2:30pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays
Participant Prerequisites:
Participants must be able to put on their own ski equipment independently, load and ride the lift, and ski at an intermediate level on all terrain, including black and double black diamonds.
Competition Goals & Events
U10 athletes are being introduced to racing and competition. Learning to memorize the course and preparing for more difficult gates, striving to improve times on each run, supporting teammates who get faster or slower times, and receiving feedback from the coaches on the race run are some of the more common features of competition in the U10 groups.
Racing introduction will focus predominantly on giant slalom, with an emphasis on teaching participants how to prepare for and react to the challenges of competition.
All U10s are eligible to compete in five races sponsored by the Northern Vermont Council starting in January and ending in mid-March. NVC races are typically scheduled on Sundays and are hosted by any of the seven mountains that make up the Northern Vermont Racing council: Burke, Cochran’s, Jay Peak, Mad River Glen, Smugglers’ Notch, Stowe, and Sugarbush. The competitions typically have over 100 boy and girl racers, and prizes are awarded at each race. No qualification is necessary for any of the races.
U10 Equipment Requirements
1 pair of “race” skis – A slalom ski or combo ski will work best
1 pair of “rock skis”/or “Trainer skis” – for use when condition/terrain are thin. No Twin Tips Please!
Boots – A proper fit is essential as well as an appropriate flex “ankle flexion”
Poles
Helmet (NO SOFT EAR HELMETS)
Goggles
Back protector (strongly recommended)