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Team Handbook 2015-2016

(Rev. 3/8/2016)

Vision

The Summit Ski Team is a family-oriented ski club dedicated to providing a safe, fun and motivating environment for area youth learning to ski and race. Participants develop a foundation for lifelong skiing enjoyment through all-mountain skiing, professional coaching, race training, competition, and team camaraderie.

Background

Summit Ski Team (SST) is a non-profit organization that teaches the fundamentals of skiing and ski racing to area youth in Park City, Utah. SST was established in 2001 and is governed by an Executive Board to help organize and implement programs focused on the team vision. In particular, SST develops and promotes:

Fundamental and technical elements of skiing and racing

Teamwork, friendship, self-confidence, pride, discipline, and goal setting

Competition, fair play, and respect for one another and the environment

Safety awareness and skiing courtesy

Physical and mental preparation and conditioning

The team composition of SST includes athletes age 7 and older along with professional coaches who are fully licensed and insured by the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA). SST strives to maintain a very low athlete-to-coach ratio and groups are determined based on skiing ability, age, experience, and individual goals. Coaches teach and model skiing skills, tactics, and sportsmanship with a heavy emphasis on having fun. The home base for SST is Park City Mountain Resort at both Park City Base Area and Canyons Village which provide excellent training terrain and facilities for our organization.

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Table of Contents

Vision ___________________________________________________________________________ 1

Background ______________________________________________________________________ 1

Table of Contents __________________________________________________________________ 2

Programs ___________________________________________________________________ 4

U10 Intro Program _________________________________________________________________ 4

U10-12 Intro+ Program _____________________________________________________________ 4

U12 - 3 Day / 4 Day Options _________________________________________________________ 5 U12 - 3 Day Option ________________________________________________________________________ 5 U12 - 4 Day Option ________________________________________________________________________ 5

U14 Program _____________________________________________________________________ 6

U16+ Program (U16 / U18) __________________________________________________________ 6

Ski Meister Program _______________________________________________________________ 7

Selection of Coaching Groups ________________________________________________________ 7

Athlete Assessments for U12 and Older ________________________________________________ 7

Requirements and Responsibilities _______________________________________________ 8

Athlete Requirements ______________________________________________________________ 8

Athlete Responsibilities _____________________________________________________________ 8

Skier Responsibility Code____________________________________________________________ 8

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities _____________________________________________________ 9

Policies and Procedures _______________________________________________________ 10

Volunteer Work Deposit ___________________________________________________________ 10

Communication Policy _____________________________________________________________ 10 Parent-Coach Communication ______________________________________________________________ 10 Coach-Parent Communication ______________________________________________________________ 10

Bullying Policy ___________________________________________________________________ 11

Travel Policy for U14 & U16+ ________________________________________________________ 11

Return-to-Sport After Injury ________________________________________________________ 12

USSA SafeSport Guidelines _________________________________________________________ 12

Payment Policy & Agreement _______________________________________________________ 13 Non-SST Program Policies __________________________________________________________________ 13

Registration Agreements ___________________________________________________________ 13

Equipment ______________________________________________________________________ 13 Skis ____________________________________________________________________________________ 13 Boots __________________________________________________________________________________ 14 Helmets ________________________________________________________________________________ 15 Other Equipment _________________________________________________________________________ 15

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Schedule ________________________________________________________________________ 16 Training Schedule ________________________________________________________________________ 16 Pre-Season & Holiday Training Camps ________________________________________________________ 17 Race Schedule ___________________________________________________________________________ 17 Race Results _____________________________________________________________________________ 17

Glossary ________________________________________________________________________ 17

Contact Information_______________________________________________________________ 18 Board Members 2015-16 __________________________________________________________________ 19 Coaches 2015-16 _________________________________________________________________________ 19

Appendix ___________________________________________________________________ 20

Agreement – Concussion ___________________________________________________________ 21

Agreement – Medical Release and Authorization For Medical Treatment ____________________ 22

Agreement – Risks, Use of Chairlift, Release and Indemnification __________________________ 23

Policies for Programs SST Participates In ______________________________________________ 24

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Programs SST programs are designed around age divisions within the Intermountain Division of USSA (IMD) and athletes compete against their peers in local and regional races. There are two primary race series that SST participates in – Youth Ski League and South Series. SST programs encompass an increasing scale in terms of training and competing in order to meet athletes’ needs as they grow older and evolve with skiing and racing. Participants can choose a program based on their proficiency as well as their individual desires. Please note that USSA membership and season passes to resorts where SST trains are not included in program fees.

U10 Intro Program

The Intro program is for Ages 6-11 (USSA U8, U10, U12, Classifications). The Intro program builds a solid base of skiing skills and technical fundamentals such as stance and balance through free skiing drills, directed free skiing, all-mountain skiing, gate training, and racing. Emphasis will be on improving free-skiing skills, basic race fundamentals, and skiing etiquette and safety. Intro skiers are encouraged to race in Youth Ski League races, of which there are typically 4 each season. Athletes will need to be registered with USSA as Competitors. The Intro program includes additional training days over holiday breaks plus “race prep” sessions prior to upcoming races. Intro also includes five Black Diamond Dryland Gymnastics sessions starting mid-October. As a minimum, all SST skiers must be able to load chair lifts independently, ski intermediate runs confidently, and have an eagerness to tackle all terrain and all conditions. New members will be required to participate in a skills check prior to the first day of training.

Ages: 6-11 (U8, U10, and select U12s needing an introductory program)

Commitment: 1 day per week early December to late March

Schedule: Saturday full day (Park City Canyons Village), Holiday and race prep training (Park City Canyons Village)

USSA Membership*: Alpine Competitor

Passes Required*: Park City (no blackout days)

Cost: $1200

U10-12 Intro+ Program

The Intro+ program is primarily the same as Intro with the added training of Wednesday evenings at Utah Olympic Park (UOP). In addition to what is offered with the Intro program, Intro+ athletes will emphasize USSA Skills Quest that further develops basic skiing fundamentals such as stance and balance, the use of the UOP small hills Nordic jumps and the UOP skier cross course, and gate drill courses. Intro+ members will compete in YSL races and have the option to race in the last designated South Series race of the year. Athletes will need to be registered with USSA as Competitor and will need to purchase a full season pass at Park City with no blackout days plus a UOP pass. The Intro+ program includes additional training days over holiday breaks plus “race prep” sessions prior to upcoming races. Intro+ also includes five Black Diamond Dryland Gymnastics sessions starting mid-October. As a minimum, all SST skiers must be able to load chair lifts independently, ski intermediate runs confidently, and have an

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eagerness to tackle all terrain and all conditions. New members will be required to participate in a skills check prior to the first day of training.

Ages: 7-11 (U8, U10, and select U12s needing an introductory program)

Commitment: 2 days per week early December to late March

Schedule: Saturday full day (Park City Canyons Village), Wednesday evening (UOP), Holiday and race prep training (Park City Canyons Village or Park City Eagle Race Arena)

USSA Membership*: Alpine Competitor

Passes Required*: Park City (no blackout days), UOP

Cost: $1500

U12 - 3 Day / 4 Day Options

The U12 program is designed for U12 athletes ages 10-11 planning to compete at the South Series level and needing a more challenging training program. Skiers will continue to build and fine-tune the basic technical and tactical fundamentals of stance, balance and movement that will enhance their overall all-mountain skiing and racing.

These athletes will compete in U12 South Series races, and under coaches guidance may opt for select YSL races.

U12 athletes in this program must have previous race experience and be able to ski all terrain and all conditions. Athletes will need to be registered with USSA as Alpine Competitor and will need to purchase a full season pass at Park City with no blackout days plus a UOP pass. This U12 program includes all Christmas and holiday training plus dryland training two days a week starting October 1st.

U12 - 3 Day Option

Ages: 10-11 (U12), accomplished 9-year-old skiers under coaches’ discretion

Commitment: 3 days per week, early December to late March

Schedule: Saturday full day (Park City Base and Canyons Village), Sunday half day (Park City Base and Canyons Village), Friday afternoon (UOP)

USSA Membership*: Alpine Competitor

Passes Required*: Park City (no blackout days), UOP

Cost: $1900

U12 - 4 Day Option

Ages: 10-11 (U12)

Commitment: 4 days per week, early December to late March

Schedule: Saturday full day (Park City Base and Canyons Village), Sunday half day (Park City Base and Canyons Village), Wednesday evening (Park City Base), Friday afternoon (UOP and Park City Canyons Village)

USSA Membership*: Alpine Competitor

Passes Required*: Park City and UOP

Cost: $2400

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U14 Program

The U14 Program is for U14 racers ages 12-13 with the desire to reach their own athletic potential in ski racing. The U14 Program will offer 4 training sessions per week (2 after school night training sessions plus Saturday/Sunday). These athletes will compete in U14 IMD race series, and under coaches guidance may opt for South Series races. This program will focus on providing a competitive training and racing environment that encourages racers to strive for higher levels of accomplishment. All U14 athletes will need to purchase a season pass at Park City (no blackout days) and a UOP pass. The U14 program includes all Christmas and Holiday training and all dryland starting September 1st.

Ages: 12-13 (U14)

Commitment/Schedule: Four training sessions per week on snow from late November to mid April consisting of 2 after school evening training sessions (Park City Base and UOP) and Saturday + Sunday training days at Park City Base and/or Canyons Village.

Dryland: Sep-Nov, 4 days a week, Dec-April 15th 1 day a week in conjunction with on snow training.

USSA Membership*: Alpine Competitor

Passes Required:* Park City (no blackout days) and UOP

Price: $3000

U16+ Program (U16 / U18)

The U16/U18 Program is for motivated U16 and U18 racers with the desire to reach their own athletic potential in ski racing. This Program will offer 5 training sessions per week (3 daytime/evening sessions midweek plus Saturday/Sunday). An early season Colorado Camp as well as a Mid-September Dryland Camp will be offered at additional cost. These athletes will compete in IMD race series and depending on athletes’ goals and desires FIS races will be incorporated to the schedule. This program will focus on providing a competitive training and racing environment that encourages racers to push their comfort zones and strives for higher levels of accomplishment. All U16 and U18 athletes need to be registered as an Alpine Competitor and they will need to purchase a season pass at Park City and a UOP pass. The U16/U18 program includes all Christmas and Holiday training and all dryland starting August 27th at AlpenFit Gym as well as physical testing in mid-October.

Ages: 14+ (U16, U18)

Commitment/Schedule: Five training sessions per week on snow from late November to mid-April consisting of 2 night training sessions and early release days midweek, Saturday/Sunday day-time training at Park City Base, Canyons Village and UOP.

Dryland: Sep-Nov, 4 days a week, Dec-April 15th 1 day a week in the gym.

USSA Membership*: Alpine Competitor

Passes Required*: Park City (no blackout days) and UOP

Price $4000

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Ski Meister Program

The Ski Meister program, ages 11-14 that have already gone through SST’s Intro and Intro+ programming. The Ski Meister program will meet once a week on Sundays starting mid-December through March. Skiers will have a group size of approximately eight skiers to one coach. Skiers will focus on improving all-mountain skiing skills including jumps, bumps and trees plus opportunities to do some gate training. Skiers will need to have a USSA membership and registered with a General Membership. If they have any desire to do any kind of USSA racing they must register as Competitor.

Ages: 11-14

Requirement: Athletes MUST have gone through SST’s Intro and Intro+ programming

Commitment: 1 day per week early December to late March

Schedule: Sundays once a week

USSA Membership*: General Membership (if any racing intended, Competitor)

Passes Required*: Park City (no blackout days)

Cost: $1200

* Please Note: USSA membership and season passes to resorts where SST trains are not included in program fees.

Selection of Coaching Groups

In order to determine on-snow coaching groups, coaches will assess athletes during the first training sessions based on the following guidelines (adjustments may occur at times to ensure the skier is receiving appropriate training and development):

Technical skiing ability

Age

Race ability and experience

Goals

Athlete Assessments for U12 and Older

Written athlete assessments will be performed at the start of the season, mid-season and then at the end of the season. Initially, we do a short assessment early in the season with the athlete, his or her parents and their respective coach. Our initial assessment explores the athlete’s primary strengths and weaknesses and establishes goals to work toward during the season. Our initial assessment also provides a reference point for later assessments to be compared to. Assessments are completed by the athlete’s primary coach.

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Requirements and Responsibilities Summit Ski Team is a ski racing program at heart, and consequently, there are minimum standards that participants must meet. In addition, SST is a non-profit, mostly volunteer run organization and requires the help of everyone involved to run smoothly.

Athlete Requirements

Minimum age of 7. (Athletes age 6 only with approval of Head Coach.)

Able to ski confidently on all intermediate and advanced terrain and in all conditions.

Able to load/unload chairlifts without assistance.

Able to manage their own equipment without assistance.

Athletes are required to wear USSA approved helmets (hard-ear covering) and must have suitable equipment and clothing for all training/racing.

All participants must have a current USSA membership.

Athlete Responsibilities

Follow the rules as set forth by the Summit Ski Team, the ski area(s), and USSA, both at our home ski area and while traveling. This includes staying in bounds, maintaining control and reasonable speed, no jumping off ski lifts, or unauthorized lift line cutting. Infractions may result in loss of season pass.

Understand and follow the Skier/Snowboarder Responsibility Code (below).

Inverted and rotational/360 degree jumps are forbidden.

Conduct oneself with the highest level of integrity. Keep frustrations and temper in check. Profane language will not be tolerated. Show respect and support to teammates and staff and to each other’s property.

Rely upon and obey the judgment and direction of the coaches.

Report any injury to an SST Coach or Canyons employee immediately.

Be on time for scheduled training and races.

Help keep training courses clear for other athletes, conduct pre-race course inspections, slip training courses as requested, help setup and take down training courses as requested.

Give coaches appropriate advance warning of inability to attend training.

Skier Responsibility Code

Safety on the slopes is everyone's responsibility. Ski safely – not only for yourself, but for others as well. The following skier responsibility code is endorsed by the American Ski Federation, National Ski Patrol, United States Ski Industries Association, Professional Ski Instructors of America, Cross Country Ski Areas Association, United States Ski & Snowboard Association, Ski Coach's Association, and other organizations.

Always stay in control and be able to stop or avoid objects.

People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.

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Do not stop where you obstruct the trail or are not visible from above.

Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, yield to others.

Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.

Observe all posted signs and warnings.

Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.

Prior to using any lift, you must know how to load, ride, and unload safely.

Membership on the Summit Ski Team is conditional upon abiding by the rules as set forth in this Handbook. In the event an athlete violates any Summit Ski Team rule, the coaches will handle the offense in the following manner:

1st Offense – Coach will discuss with athlete.

2nd Offense – Coach will discuss with athlete and notify parents.

3rd Offense – Coach will notify parents in writing and athlete will be suspended for one week and may miss next race.

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

Provide transportation to and from training sessions and race events. Parents always need to make positive contact with coaches for late drop-off or early pick-up. Athletes will not be permitted to ski to or ski away from the body of the team unescorted by an adult (think school drop-off/pick-up). Note: Coaches cannot transport racers other than for SST sanctioned travel.

Accept and uphold coaches’ and executive board decisions, which are made with the intention of providing the safest and most successful environment for athletes.

Provide a Volunteer Work Deposit of $250 that represents 20 hours of volunteer time per family, per season. Opportunities to fulfill the volunteer obligation occur during the season and include volunteering with the Jans Winter Welcome fundraising event. Other volunteer opportunities include assisting with the SST race tent at individual team races and helping with the annual race hosted by the Summit Ski Team. For the 2015-16 season, SST will be hosting the YSL Night Race at Park City, February 12, 2015 (Slalom).

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Policies and Procedures

Volunteer Work Deposit

In support of keeping skiing and ski racing affordable for our members, Summit Ski Team relies heavily on volunteers. The Volunteer Work Deposit program requires each family to make a $250 deposit at the time of athlete registration and will be refunded upon fulfillment of a 20-hour volunteer commitment. This fee is assessed for the first athlete to be registered and additional athletes in the same family will not be charged. Over the course of the season, the work deposit will be earned back by volunteering in support of the club. Each family is required to fulfill 20 hours of volunteer time in order to earn the deposit back, otherwise the deposit will go to the club's general fund. If the $250 deposit is a hardship, please reach out to our Scholarship Committee and exceptions may be granted as needed.

Communication Policy

Parent-Coach Communication

During the ski season, it is very difficult for coaches to take texts, phone calls or emails while skiing with their athletes. We would ask all parents to be patient. Please remember that the coaches are responsible for all their athletes and it’s not fair to the group if they are delayed from training. Please consider the following options if you need to get ahold of your athlete’s coach:

If there is an emergency, please text the SST Director or your athlete’s head coach. and leave a message. Coaches will try to check their text messages during breaks and at lunch.

If you are late dropping your athlete off, please call the coach and then wait with your athlete until it is decided where they should meet up with the coach(es).

Coach-Parent Communication

SST needs to have current contact information so that we may contact parents/guardians in case of an emergency, where an athlete may be injured, or In case of a non-emergency where the mountain closes early, or the coach is called off the mountain in the case of a personal emergency.

Please be sure that SST has current phone number and email contact information for all parents/guardians who should be contacted in case of an emergency.

It must be understood that if one parent/guardian is contacted, that they will be responsible for letting all other vested parties know of any emergency.

Follow up from SST will be with the parent/guardian that was originally contacted.

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For non-emergency situations such as the mountain closes early, or the coach is called off the mountain in the case of a personal emergency:

Coaches will get all athletes in their group taken care of before leaving the mountain. Coaches will leave a message for the parent/guardian in the event that the coach needs to bring athletes to the bottom for either mountain closure or personal emergency.

If there is enough SST staff on hand, groups may be re-organized in the event of a coach needing to leave the mountain.

Bullying Policy

Summit Ski Team has adopted the USSA Safe Sport guidelines that define bullying as follows. Bullying:

May be physical, verbal or emotional.

Is usually repeated over a period of time.

May involve staff, other athletes, or parents.

Signs may include a drop in performance, behavioral changes, mood swings, reluctance to train/compete, frequent loss of possessions, physical injuries (bruising, scratches, etc), poor sleep, loss of appetite/weight.

Bullying is unacceptable and will not be tolerated on the Summit Ski Team. If there is suspicion of bullying the following will happen:

Parents will be contacted immediately following any incident where bullying is suspected.

A report shall be filed with the SST Head Coach/Director that contains the following information, if available: 1. Name of complaining party; 2. Name of offender (if known); 3. Name of victim (if known); 4. Date and location of incident(s); 5. A statement describing the incident(s), including names of witnesses (if

known).

Prior to the imposition of short-term athlete or employee discipline, the accused shall be given an informal opportunity to respond to the accusations and defend his or her actions.

Consequences for Bullying:

1st violation: removal of athlete/employee from training for one day.

2nd violation: removal of athlete/employee from team.

Travel Policy for U14 & U16+

The majority of SST athletes who travel are U14 and U16+. Travel responsibilities for all athletes traveling to SST organized events without parents include:

All athletes must be under their coach’s supervision at all times while traveling to or from, and during an event when a parent or guardian is not present.

All traveling athletes must come prepared with the proper gear, clothing, and anything else they will need while away from home.

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Parent responsibilities for traveling athletes:

If an athlete has any physical or mental illness that could inhibit their ability to work independently, that would require inordinate attention from coaches, or that would preclude coaches from focusing equally on all traveling athletes, then a parent or guardian must accompany the athlete or the athlete must remain at home. We require this out of fairness to all SST athletes and for the safety and well-being of all SST athletes.

Registration deadlines will be set for travel events. If an athlete is unable to participate after a given deadline a $50 cancellation fee will be assessed to cover costs that are incurred due to travel arrangements already made.

Important Note About Injuries while Traveling: If an athlete becomes injured during a travel event and requires emergency care, then the athlete will not be allowed to continue training or competing during that travel event. Regardless of the situation, SST Coaches are not allowed to clear an injured athlete for return-to-sport. Only a licensed health-care provider may clear an athlete and that clearance must be in writing. SST Coaches will communicate with the athlete’s parents/guardians regarding such injuries.

Return-to-Sport After Injury

In the event of an injury to any SST athlete that results in a clinic or other health-care provider visit SST requires a note from the health-care provider indicating that the athlete is fit to return to participation in team training or competition.

If a SST athlete has seen a health-care provider for injury, a written note from that health-care provider clearing the athlete for return-to-sport must be submitted to the athlete’s Headcoach. (e.g. If a U12 athlete then note goes to U12 Headcoach.) The note must indicate that the athlete is fit to return to ski team training and competition. An indication that an athlete is fit to ski at 50% is unenforceable. It’s best that the athlete be fit to return at 100% physical activity, as determined by a health-care provider.

SST Coaches must not allow injured athletes, who have seen a health-care provider due to injury, to participate at any level unless they have received a doctor’s written note clearing an athlete to return-to-sport. Verbal clearance is not sufficient.

SST Coaches who receive a doctor’s note clearing an athlete for return-to-sport must contact the SST Director indicating receipt of the note clearing the athlete to return-to-sport and then turn that note in to the SST Director as soon as possible.

USSA SafeSport Guidelines

The United States Ski & Snowboard Association (USSA) publishes USSA SafeSport Guidelines that provide guidance on acceptable and unacceptable athlete and team staff behavior. SST strives to implement these guidelines. Please refer to the Guidelines for further detail. (See: http://ussa.org/ussa/ussa-safesport-guidelines)

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Payment Policy & Agreement

1. Initial Program Fees. Payment of program fees in full is encouraged and preferred. SST will make provisions for partial payment, but a 1st payment must be made before participation with the Summit Ski Team. Then subsequent payments will be required by set dates agreed upon by the team and athlete’s parents or guardians. Failure to satisfy payment terms results in suspension of participation privileges until payment is made, unless by prior special agreement.

2. Race Costs and Fees shall be paid in full prior to participating in SST races or events, unless other special arrangements have been agreed upon by the team and parents or guardians. SST will post race registration pages on the SST website indicating race or event costs. Those pages will include the means to make payments.

If paying by check, the check must be mailed to: Summit Ski Team, P.O. Box 981594, Park City, Utah 84098-1954. Please, no checks to Coaches, Director or Board Members. Hand-delivered checks have a nasty habit of getting misplaced.

Non-SST Program Policies

Summit Ski Team members may participate in ski pass programs (Ski Utah Passport & Vail Resorts Epic Pass). For your convenience brief statements of those policies are included in the Appendix to this Team Handbook. (Note that these policy statements were current at the time of publication but may subsequently be revised. Please check with respective organizations for their current policies.)

Registration Agreements

Registration for Summit Ski Team is completed at the beginning of the season using “Register Online” under Programs on the SST website. The Summit Ski Team maintains a number of agreements with all parents or guardians of SST athletes. These agreements are incorporated into the registration process. For your convenience, these agreements are provided in full in the appendix to this Team Handbook and will be executed at the start of the season. Athlete participation in SST training, races or other events is not allowed without completion of the Registration Form and required agreements that include:

1. Agreement – Concussion

2. Agreement – Medical Release and Authorization For Medical Treatment

3. Agreement – Risks, Use of Chairlift, Release and Indemnification

Equipment

Skis

Skis for junior racers come in four general categories: Kombi, Slalom (SL), Giant Slalom (GS), and Super-G (SG). Slalom skis have more side cut than giant slalom skis (short, quick turns versus longer turns) while Kombi skis try to find a middle ground for

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beginning racers. All ski companies make good products and it’s mostly personal preference as to which brand to use.

YSL skiers (Intro, Intro+) will generally need one pair of training/racing skis and they should be either Slalom or Kombi. You should also consider having an extra pair of skis for early season (rock skis) or for when conditions could otherwise be hard on bases.

South Series skiers (Comp and Comp+) will need both Slalom and GS skis and J4 and older skiers (11+) should consider Super-G skis with coach guidance. Most skiers this age will also have a pair of general purpose all-mountain skis for non-technical training, early season, powder days, etc.

Ski Sizing (wearing ski boots): In general, ski length should be between the chin and the top of the forehead with SL skis more at chin level and GS skis more at forehead level. Kombi skis fall in between SL and GS (nose height plus or minus 2 inches) and Super-G skis are a couple inches longer than GS. Skier weight and skiing style as well as ski stiffness are all important factors in sizing and buying skis. Consult with a coach before buying if you have questions.

Bindings: Youth ski bindings (DIN up to 4.5) are probably OK for kids up to about 60 pounds. Heavier or more aggressive kids should be in something at least DIN 7 or 10. Also, as kids really learn to carve, the benefit of some extra rise off the ski is significant (riser plate or binding).

Boots

Good quality, properly fitted boots are essential. Good boots = happy feet = happy kids. Cold or uncomfortable boots = unhappy kids. There are many good brands although Nordica, Lange and Rossignol are well-proven junior boots. Boots should be 4 buckle – do not use rear-entry boots.

A softer flexing boot will be more effective than a stiffer boot due to strength limitations and skill level. To determine if a boot is soft enough for your child you should be able to clearly see the boot flex forward in unison with the lower leg. If the upper boot cuff does not move or moves very little, the boot is too stiff and will hinder your child in their skill progression.

Boot Sizing: Boots should fit properly, tight but not uncomfortable. Remember the boots might feel too tight at first but will break in within a few days on the slopes. Buying boots oversized is counterproductive to both performance and fit. A good way to size boots is to shell-fit: remove the liner, wear normal ski socks, stand up straight and put the toes to the front of the boot. There should be about two fingers of room (3/4 to 1 inch) between the heel and the back of the boot. Also, with the liner out you can easily see how the foot fits into the liner itself.

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Helmets

USSA approved ski helmets are mandatory for all training and racing, no exceptions. It is now required under USSA rules that all racers must have a hard sided helmet (no soft ear flaps). If you show up at the start of a race without a proper helmet you won’t be allow to race. Proper sizing, fit and securing of helmets is absolutely essential to skier safety.

Other Equipment

Everyone knows how extreme the weather can get at a ski area in winter and it can change drastically during the course of a day. Suitable clothing is very important. It doesn’t have to be expensive, state-of-the-art or flashy, but it does have to fit comfortably, be waterproof, and not hinder aggressive skiing. Also, make sure you put your name on any equipment that might get lost, left behind or inadvertently switched with someone else’s (skis, poles, helmet, jacket, …)

Snow Pant/Zip Offs – Pretty much any of your basic ski pants work fine as long as they’re waterproof and fit over boots. If your racer will be using a speed suit, the pants need to have a full-length side zipper.

Goggles – A good pair of well-fitting goggles is very important. Ski racing inherently focuses on speed and good visibility will make a big difference in skier confidence. Athletes who train under lights (Intro+, Comp, Comp+) will want a pair of goggles suitable for night skiing. Use a clear lens or one that is designed to use under artificial light.

Speed suits – A lot of first-time parents and kids are surprised when they get to the first race and see the majority of kids decked out speed suits, even some of the very youngest. Speed suits are optional and the advantage gained is sometimes more psychological than real. Comp and Comp+ kids will definitely want a speed suit and are encouraged to wear it when training gates and racing (train like you race, race like you train). There are many speed suits out there but the affordable, used ones tend to get snatched up quickly, especially at ski swaps.

Protective Gear – Shin guards, pole guards, and chin (face) guards are highly recommended for the Comp and Comp+ skiers when training slalom. Note: we are not trying to kill the gates just protecting our young racers. The Intro and Intro+ skier or YSL skier will not need protective gear unless their coach recommends it.

No Backpacks – Please don’t have your child wear a backpack on training days. They have a nasty habit of getting tangled up with chairlifts whereby athlete injury can occur. Backpacks are also easily lost.

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EQUIPMENT INTRO INTRO+ COMP COMP+

Kombi Skis X X

SL Race Skis Optional Optional X X

GS Race Skis Optional Optional X X

Super-G Skis Optional Optional

4-buckle Boots X X X X

Poles X X X X

Helmet (no soft ear flaps) X X X X

Goggles X X X X

Goggles for night training X X X

Warm Layered Clothing X X X X

Race Suit Optional Optional X X

Shin Guards Optional X X

Chin Guard for helmet U12+ U12+

Pole Guards U12+ U12+

(Note: Blank = Not Required, X = Required, U12+ = Required for age group U12 and older.)

Schedule

The SST season runs from early December through late March, lasting about 16 weeks. The early part of the season focuses on free skiing techniques, drills, and fundamentals. Gate training and event specific training generally starts after the first of the season. Date of first race depends on age group with U16+ starting mid-December while U14 and U12 start in early January. Many of the competitions are stacked toward the second half of the season. Divisional and regional semi-finals and finals/championships begin in early March and usually conclude by the second week of April. However, most athletes’ last race will be concluded by the second week in March.

Training Schedule

The training schedules will be provided by Team Coaches at the start of the season, with updates as the season progresses.

In early season (December), depending on age group, mornings will focus on fundamental skiing techniques and drills. During race season (January-March), mornings will focus on gate training (conditions depending). Throughout the season, afternoons will be directed free skiing (all mountain/all conditions).

Training at the Utah Olympic Park is offered for some age groups and generally consists of a variety of disciplines. The hill is fairly short and accessed by a surface lift. Gate training will probably be slalom only due to the hill length. Other training possibilities include the small nordic jumps, moguls, and terrain park features.

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Pre-Season & Holiday Training Camps

In addition to the regular season SST usually offers pre-season training camps that tend to be for older athletes. In addition, special camps are sometimes offered during holiday periods with a concentration on all-mountain, all-condition skiing.

Race Schedule

The competition schedule for SST consists of events in the Youth Ski League (YSL) and the South Series (SS) which are both generally U12. U12 athletes will generally do one race series or the other, although some racers may do both as a part of transitioning. The SST competition schedule also includes events in the U14 and U16+ categories.

The current Race Schedule for all United States Ski & Snowboard Association – Intermountain Division (“USSA-IMD”) races can be found on the USSA-IMD website (http://www.ussa-imd.org See: “Race Schedule”).

Race Results

Results for all USSA-IMD races are posted on the IMD website, usually within a day after the race. (http://www.ussa-imd.org See: “Race Results”).

Glossary

USSA – United States Ski & Snowboard Association (http://www.ussa.org). USSA is the governing body of nearly all snowsports in the United States, including alpine, nordic, jumping, snowboard, and freestyle (SST competes in alpine). As such, it is a very large organization and exerts tremendous influence over competitive skiing. The corporate headquarters of USSA are in Park City. USSA follows a tiered approach to cultivating ski racers that begins with junior athletes competing in YSL races and culminates in the United States Ski Team. Each member of SST is required to be a member of USSA.

IMD – Intermountain Division of USSA (http://www.ussa-imd.org). IMD is the regional division of USSA in which SST competes. The region encompasses Utah, southern Idaho, and western Wyoming. The IMD website is the place to go for race results.

YSL – Youth Ski League. (IMD has two YSL divisions, North and South. SST is in the South YSL.) YSL comprises the youngest athlete grouping within USSA and is where SST has traditionally been focused. (Although, SST has expanded recently into older age groups to include U14 and U16+.) The main purpose of YSL is to offer entry-level ski racing for athletes age 6-12. (YSL series serves as USSA-IMD’s introduction to the sport.) The races in this series are not scored and are seeded by age groups. U8/U10/U12 (6-11 year old) racers are eligible for YSL races. Within groups, the start order will be determined by random draw.

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(Once an athlete receives a top 5 placement within the U10 or U12 age class in the South Series they will no longer be eligible to race in the YSL Series and so move up to South Series.)

There are several YSL races held each year and they are one-day events except for the YSL Championships which is a 2-day event. YSL courses are usually short and spectator friendly. The races are giant slaloms with one to two entry-level slalom courses, and all YSL races will be a one run race.

South Series (SS) – The South Series is the next level of ski racing beyond YSL. South Series races are non-scored and are seeded using the TRS (totally random sort)

method. South races are open to U10-U12 racers. (U8’s will not be allowed to race in the South Series.) South Series races are typically 2-day events with longer, steeper, and more technical courses than racers experience at YSL. J3 series is the next step above SS.

YWSA – Youth Winter Sports Alliance (http://www.ywsa.org). YWSA is an umbrella organization for several winter-oriented clubs in Park City, including SST. The main purpose of this organization is to promote and fundraise for youth sports in general and YWSA member clubs in particular. YWSA sponsors several events throughout the year, but by far the largest is the JANS Winter Welcome, held in October each year. Member clubs provide the volunteers and legwork to help organize and host these events, and in return receive funding from YWSA. Summit Ski Team has been a YWSA member for several years and has benefited significantly from this relationship.

JWW – JANS Winter Welcome (JWW) is the premier fundraising event for YWSA. Held each October, it is a formal, black-tie affair that features Olympic athletes and dignitaries, top local cuisine, and a variety of silent and live auctions. This event is put on by YWSA and involves a huge volunteer effort that each member club is required to commit to. SST takes this commitment very seriously and has traditionally been recognized as one of the hardest-working organizations within YWSA.

Contact Information

Summit Ski Team Email: info@summitskiteam.org P.O. Box 981594 director@summitskiteam.org Park City, UT 84098 Website: www.summitskiteam.org

Director & Head Coach: Matt Brown – director@summitskiteam.org Administrator: Matthew Wallace – info@summitskiteam.org

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Board Members 2015-16

Name Role Phone Email

Jim Fitlow President 801-870-1530 jim@rebathut.com

Daniel Sheinberg Vice President 415-314-2223 daniel.sheinberg@live.com

Bryon Young Treasurer 801-243-9227 treasurer@summitskiteam.org

Annie Wallace Secretary 801-699-0663 amaulding@comcast.net

Susan Hamblin Fundraising 801-636-9681 hamblin90@msn.com

Bill Rusconi At-Large 801-509-6499 billrusconi@gmail.com

Thunder Jalili At-Large 435-615-1856 thunder.jalili@utah.edu

Coaches 2015-16

Coach Role / Team Phone Email

Matt Brown Director & Head Coach 435-640-9051 director@suumitskiteam.org

George Thomas Headcoach U16+ 970-819-9431 georget@springsips.com

Thad McGowan Headcoach U14 435-729-9445 sstthad1@gmail.com

Sarah Warren Headcoach U12-4 Day

Headcoach U12-3 Day

435-640-4554 sarahuh81@yahoo.com

Kurt Almond Headcoach U10 Intro

Headcoach U10-U12 Intro+

801-598-5523 kurtalmond@gmail.com

Dave Rosen Headcoach Ski Meister

Coach U10-12 Intro+, U10 Intro

603-219-3960 frap24@hotmail.com

Eric Brandolini Coach U16+, U14 603-843-5848 brandolini.eric@gmail.com

Kristiina Rove Coach U16+, U14 801-913-6051 k.rove@hotmail.com

Andrew Cesati Coach U14, U12-4 Day, U12-3 Day 435-659-5708 cesati.andrew@gmail.com

Grace Brown Coach U14, U12-4 Day, U12-3 Day 208-720-7883 gracebrown1992@yahoo.com

Brian Holmen Coach U12-4 Day, U12-3 Day 435-962-0283 bholmen11@gmail.com

Jakob Jeremy Coach U12-4 Day, U12-3 Day 801-560-8825 jmjskier@gmail.com

Molly Clarke Coach U12-4 Day, U12-3 Day 541-490-5822 mollylclarke@gmail.com

Alison Sibley Coach U10-12 Intro+, U10 Intro 617-645-2087 alison.sibley@gmail.com

Andrew Guthery Coach U10-12 Intro+, U10 Intro 435-659-4964 andrewjguthery@gmail.com

Bryson Allison Coach U10-12 Intro+, U10 Intro 435-659-6215 skibka777@gmail.com

Kelli Clarke Coach U10-12 Intro+, U10 Intro 541-399-2659 kelli.m.clarke@gmail.com

Laurel Van’t Hof Coach U10-12 Intro+, U10 Intro 435-659-1904 laurel.vanthof@gmail.com

Sam Webster Coach U10-12 Intro+, U10 Intro 801-518-1450 sam_webster@me.com

Sarah Morrison Coach U10-12 Intro+, U10 Intro 435-962-4542 sarah.j.morrison.91@gmail.com

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Appendix These agreements are part of the seasonal online registration packet and are included in this appendix for your convenience.

2015/2016 21

Agreement – Concussion

Summit Ski Team

Agreement - Concussion

About Concussion

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head.

Concussions can also occur from a fall or a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move

quickly back and forth. Doctors may describe a concussion as a mild brain injury because concussions

are usually not life-threatening. Even so, their effects can be serious.

Risk Of Continued Participation

A repeat concussion that occurs before the brain recovers from the first usually within a short period of

time (hours, days, or weeks) can slow recovery or increase the likelihood of having long-term problems.

In rare cases, repeat concussions can result in edema (brain swelling), permanent brain damage, and

even death. The Summit Ski Team (SST) recommends that Members review the Center for Disease

Controls resources on concussion awareness at the following link:

http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/online_training.html

SST Policy

Any Summit Ski Team athlete suspected of having sustained a concussion/traumatic brain injury will be

removed immediately from participation in all SST activities (e.g. sanctioned training, practice, camps,

competitions or dryland) by the SST coach overseeing such sporting event. The athlete will be prohibited

from further participation until evaluated and cleared in writing to resume participation in any SST

activity by a qualified health care provider trained in the evaluation and management of concussive

head injuries. The health care professional must certify to the SST Head Coach in the clearance letter

that he/she has successfully completed a continuing education course in the evaluation and

management of concussive head injuries within three years of the day on which the written statement is

made.

Upon removal of an athlete from participation for a suspected concussion/traumatic brain injury, the

SST Head Coach will inform the SST Board of such removal. Athletes who have subsequently been

medically cleared to resume participation must provide such medical clearance (as described above) to

the SST Head Coach in order to be permitted to participate in any SST activity.

Persons signing this Agreement acknowledge that they have read it and understand it. Parents signing as

Parent or Guardian represent and warrant that they have the legal capacity to sign on behalf of the

participant.

Participant:

Parent/Guardian:

Electronically Signed on:

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Agreement – Medical Release and Authorization For Medical Treatment

Summit Ski Team

Agreement – Medical Release and Authorization For Medical Treatment

The parents and/or guardians (Parents) of participants in the Summit Ski Team program, in the event of injury to a participant, consent that the coaches and/or officers of the Summit Ski Team, Inc. (the Ski Team) may authorize and arrange for medical care and treatment on behalf of their child under the supervision of the Ski Patrol at any resort where the participant trains or competes, and/or by licensed physicians or health care professionals on duty at any nearby hospital emergency room, emergency care facility, or doctor’s office. This consent includes the Ski Team transporting, or arranging transportation of, the participant to a medical or health care facility, if necessary. The Ski Team will, in the event of injury, attempt as soon as is reasonably possible to contact and notify the participants Parents. In the event the participants Parents cannot be reached, the Parents authorize the Ski Team, its coaches and officers, to admit the participant to a hospital or other health care facility and arrange for medical and/or dental care, including surgery if necessary. This advance consent is given for the purpose of encouraging physicians, and officers and coaches of the Ski Team to exercise their best judgment as to what medical care and treatment is reasonably necessary for the participant.

Parents knowingly and voluntarily consent in advance to such care and treatment as described above. Parents agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Ski Team, its director, officers, shareholders, coaches, and anyone acting on its behalf, from any and all costs and liability arising from or in connection with such care and treatment.

Persons signing this Agreement acknowledge that they have read it and understand it. Parents signing as Parent or Guardian represent and warrant that they have the legal capacity to sign on behalf of the participant.

Participant:

Parent/Guardian:

Electronically Signed on:

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Agreement – Risks, Use of Chairlift, Release and Indemnification

Summit Ski Team

Agreement – Risks, Use of Chairlift, Release and Indemnification

Risks

The participants in the Summit Ski Team program (Ski Team) and their parents and/or guardians (Parents) acknowledge the risk of injury by participation in the program. Snow skiing and ski racing involve risk of injury, potentially serious, which includes, but is not limited to, abrasions, cuts, contusions, joint and ligament damage, broken bones, concussions, eye damage, brain injury, paralysis and death. Medical and emergency care and treatment may not be immediately available. Injuries may result from any of the following events and causes, among others that may or may not be foreseeable:

1) Disregard of Ski Team rules and instruction.

2) Disregard of Ski Resort advisories, warnings, or boundary markers.

3) Skiing in an unsafe or reckless manner.

4) Falls, crashes, and collisions with rocks, trees, race gates, other skiers, and other objects.

5) Defective, improperly adjusted, or improperly maintained equipment.

6) Adverse weather conditions (including snow, wind, and cold), terrain, and avalanches.

Use of Chairlift

The Parents of participants in the Ski Team acknowledge their child may ride the chairlifts without being accompanied by an adult.

Release and Indemnification

In consideration of and as a condition to enrollment in the Ski Team, the Parents of each participant, on their child’s behalf, by signing this form voluntarily agree to release and discharge the Ski Team, its directors, board members, officers, coaches, agents, employees, and volunteers (Ski Team Representatives) of any and all claims of negligence causing personal injury or injury to property incurred by their child while participating in the Ski Team, including while attending and in travel to any events as a member of the Ski Team.

Parents promise not to sue the Ski Team and/or its Representatives for personal injuries or damage of property incurred while their child is a participant in the Ski Team. This covenant is made on behalf of the Parents child, as well as by each participants Parents.

Parents also agree to defend, hold harmless, and indemnify the Ski Team Representatives should their child at some future date bring a civil action against the Ski Team and/or its Representatives for negligence resulting in personal injury and/or damage to property. This means that if a lawsuit is filed against the Ski Team and/or its Representatives by your child or by someone on his/her behalf, then you agree you will reimburse the Ski Team and its Representatives their expenses incurred in defending against the lawsuit, including attorney’s fees. It means that you also agree to reimburse the Ski Team and its Representatives for compensatory damages awarded your child or expenses incurred to compromise and settle his/her claim.

Persons signing this Agreement acknowledge that they have read it and understand it. Parents signing as Parent or Guardian represent and warrant that they have the legal capacity to sign on behalf of the participant.

Participant: Guardians: Electronically Signed on:

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Policies for Programs SST Participates In

Summit Ski Team

Policies for Programs SST Participates In

1. The Ski Utah 5th & 6th Grade Passport is available for all 5th and 6th-grade students. A digital

photo of your child that clearly shows his/her face & valid credit card are needed in order to start the online application process. Passports are processed by Ski Utah. The Passports booklet will be mailed to the address provided in the application. Processing takes approximately 1-2 weeks.

a. 5th Graders: Ski or ride 3 times at each of Utah's 14 resorts. b. 6th Graders: Ski or ride 1 time at each of Utah's 14 resorts.

See the Ski Utah website for details: www.skiutah.com/passes/passports 2. Vail Resorts Epic Pass Program: Provides access to these resorts, depending on plan purchased:

a. Vail b. Beaver Creek c. Breckenridge d. Keystone e. Park City f. Heavenly g. Northstar h. Kirkwood i. Afton Alps j. Mt. Brighton k. Arapahoe Basin

See the Vail Resorts website for details: www.snow.com/epic-pass.aspx