Frequently Asked Questions: General
1. What is the Nancy Greene Ski League? (NGSL)
2. How good do skiers need to be?
3. Who will be coaching?
4. Do skiers have to race?
5. How much time must parents commit?
6. What Equipment is required?
7. Is the program specifically race orientated, does my child have to race?
8. What is the criteria for skiing to be cancelled or postpones due to cold weather?
9. Are parents required to volunteer in the running of the club?
1. What is the Nancy Greene Ski League? (NGSL)
The NGSL is the FUNdamental stage in ski development. The philosophy is to promote FUN, SAFETY, SKILL DEVELOPMENT AND FAIR PLAY. Children will be introduced to basic skiing techniques and skills in small groups and in as many different snow conditions as possible. Most importantly, it promotes having fun on skis. Skiers progress through the "Snow Stars" program - a seven step skills progression program in ski development for children at this age level. It encourages the development of skiers and ski racers of all ability levels.
2. How good do skiers need to be?
Your child must be able to ski independently on green runs (no harnesses), have enough control to initiate stopping and be comfortable using a chairlift (we're happy to give them a boost if they need it!). If your child is not yet ready to join our program, consider the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort Ski School, they do a good job of teaching skiing basics to young children!
3. Who will be coaching?
Our coaches have a minimum of level 1 certification by the Canadian Ski Coaching Federation.
4. Do skiers have to race?
Although races at this level are designed to be fun, there is no pressure to attend races. We do hold one race per year in Golden that our children can participate in. The focus at this level is on skill development and not races. Therefore they are totally optional, although we do strongly encourage kids to participate.
5. How much time must parents commit?
Our ski club programs could not run without the efforts of its parents and fundraising. Fundraising helps to keep our programs as affordable as possible to local parents. Hosting a race requires a lot of volunteer officials to run them safely and fairly so parents are asked to assist in hosting these events. Parent involvement is crucial to the success of the program.
6. What Equipment is required?
- Skis - should be short, soft and shaped, preferably not twin tipped
- Ski boots that fit snugly and warm ski socks (not cotton as they hold moisture)
- Ski Poles - not required if children are still in a snowplow
- Mandatory ski helmets with hard ear part (no snowboard, bike or hockey helmets)
- Layers of warm, comfortable and functional winter clothing
- Goggles - especially if it is snowing or windy
- Warm gloves/mitts (2nd pair to switch into if wet is a good idea)
- Neck/Face Warmer for colder days
7. Is the program specifically race orientated, does my child have to race?
No, we introduce them to racing as this is a great method to teach skiers proper skiing techniques but we spend most of our time skiing in group settings challenging each skier to expand their abilities.
8. What is the criteria for skiing to be cancelled or postpones due to cold weather?
In the event of temperatures being –20C or less at the day lodge at 9am of the program day, the morning session will be postponed until the temperature rises above –20C. In the event that severe cold cancels a day, attempts will be made to make that day up in the future. Alpine Skiing is a cold weather sport and weather is unpredictable. Please ensure children are dressed appropriately for the weather.
9. Are parents required to volunteer in the running of the club?
Our ski club programs could not run without the efforts of its parents and fundraising. Fundraising helps to keep our programs as affordable as possible to local parents. Hosting a race requires a lot of volunteer officials to run them safely and fairly so parents are asked to assist in hosting these events. Parent involvement is crucial to the success of the program.
Programs
