Our U8 Program provides age-appropriate, entry-level programming for our youngest athletes. Using the world-class terrain at Sugarbush Resort and employing a high volume of on-snow time, our aim is to introduce (and reinforce) the FUN of skiing, teach basic skiing skills, and build a foundation for future racing techniques. Days will consist of guided, structured free skiing, with an introduction to technical skills and gate training.
Important Information
Ages: Starting at age 6, up to 8 years of age. For athletes born in 2017 and 2018. Year of birth 2018 spots are limited within our total number of U8 spots. Because not all 6 year olds are ready for the program, we consider the first 3 weekends a trial. If the program is not the right fit for your child, we will issue a refund.
Program Dates: December 7, 2024 – March 29, 2025
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:
U8 athletes are being introduced to racing and competition. Learning how to navigate courses, 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 U8 groups.
All U8s are eligible to compete in intra-Club races. Additionally, the Northern Vermont Council sponsors five races for 7-year olds 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
U8 Required Equipment
1 pair of “race” skis – A GS length ski or combo ski will work best
A pair of “rock skis”/or “Trainer skis” (used 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)