The Talent Squad program will teach our youngest athletes to be independent, all around skiers, to be able to negotiate all of the issues with their own equipment, and to understand and practice mountain awareness and safety. The athletes will have tested their skills in fun events at Diamond Peak.

To achieve these goals, coaches will assess the athletes and seasonal/monthly/weekly objectives will be established for each individual need.

AGES: 6 to 12 years old

DATES: January 5th to March 15th, 2008
(No Talent Squad weekend of February 16)

Parent Info Night TBA @ Parasol Foundation

TIME: Saturdays 9:00 am till 3:00 pm
(Athletes with coaches through lunch break. Lunch not provided)

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

• Properly fitted skis/boots/poles/helmet
• Cold weather clothing to assure a fun experience
• Diamond Peak Season Pass

ABLITIES NEEDED TO PARTCIPATE:

• Skiers must be competent in chairlift loading procedures
• Level ‘D’ (at Bee Ferrato Child Ski Center) or equivalent skills
• Must be able to make non-stop controlled runs down intermediate terrain (Blue Square)
• Follows instructions
• Independent
• Concept of individualism
• Responsibility for own equipment

PLANS FOR THE YEAR:

• Athletes will be assigned to a season long core coach
• Athletes will be grouped by age and/or ability
• Coach to athlete ratio is approximately 6:1
• Core groups may be adjusted to attain weekly objectives
• 5% Gate training - 35% Drills - 60% Free Skiing

ACTIVITIES:

• Confection Race Series (Cookie Cup, Brownie Cup and Cup Cake Cup)
• Scavenger hunts
• Dress up days
• Group challenges
• Skills Tests

FUTURE FOR THESE ATHLETES:

• Become leaders of the Talent Squad
• Age appropriate progression into Development Team
• Skill progressions
• Competent Black Diamond skiers
• Passion for the sport!

For additional skiing days add the Talent Squad PLUS program.

All application forms and program flyer are available in the “Downloads” section.