Spring 2007
American Snowsports Education Association (ASEA) PSIA - Western Division - AASI
Notes from the President: Neil Bussiere
Longer Days, Softer Snow, Convention: Spring Is Your Time To Shine Traditionally Spring means longer days, softening of the snow, and that momentary lapse of reason that resulted in your entry into the pond-skimming contest at your local resort. Whether just trying to stay out of the pond, sneaking in some last minute training for those certification exams, or wrapping up a great season of teaching and making turns, Spring is your time to shine. This year, with Winter just beginning to hit as of late February, we could be in for a Spring blast of long-awaited snow. Couple that with a guaranteed blast of fun at Spring Convention and we can all end our seasons on a high note. But keep your eyes open because that Spring shine can take many forms. This season saw my two-year old hit the slopes for the first time. Having taught other children to ski it was interesting to be teaching my own son to ski. I found myself preparing Jack’s progress report in my mind as I went along only to realize I would be delivering it to myself when I was done. Once an instructor always an instructor I guess. Jack took to the snow and had a great time. My wife, kids, and I even made it to Colorado for a week to check in on some friends and sample the Rocky Mountain lifestyle high up in Breckenridge. Let’s just say we were shining before Spring even started. Spring also means the annual PSIA/ AASI-W Board of Directors election is now underway. Within this issue you
will find the future leaders of your division. Take time to consider their statements carefully and return your ballots prior to the mid-April deadline. For those elected, their selection will mark the start of a broader contribution to this division and its membership and will shine the light of importance on your votes of confidence in them. Given what I’ve seen in my eight years on the board it’s a safe bet to say that their subsequent contributions and work on behalf of the membership will begin to shine all by itself. In the end Spring has a way of making everything shine. Some people see their certification pins change from bronze to
silver, or silver to shiny gold. With its shine across the snow the sun seems to beckon for just one more run, and then another. We recall those special runs, that unforgettable road-trip, the spectacular powder day, moments with our families, and the guests and co-workers that made our season so memorable. It’s simple really. The ultimate shine often takes the form of a smile. Look around you on the hill today and see who’s smiling. Sliding and shining are somewhat synonymous. Then, when you get home, look in the mirror. It’s no coincidence that you’re shining too. Shine brightly and stay safe, Neil
Inside Edge Learn the latest about Convention 2007, including your opportunity to register online for the April 2729 Mammoth gathering. Page 2.
Nine candidates are running for four seats on the Board of Directors. Find out about them and get your ballot. Page 8. The Edge, Spring 2007 - Page 1
2007 Spring Convention Updates
Online Registration/Payment, Canyon Lodge Banquet, and More on Tap Hello folks Convention is right around the corner and here is the latest and the greatest for Mammoth. It has finally snowed, with February providing upwards of six feet of snow on Mammoth’s higher slopes. Hopefully, even more is on the way. The Banquet will be at the Grizzly Theatre at Canyon Lodge this year and we will have this facility exclusively for PSIA/AASI. Canyon has more room for us, and we are working closely with the catering staff at Mammoth to incorporate your suggestions from last year as to how to improve the banquet experience. The Kick-Off party, featuring good conversation, Hors d’Oeurve’s and complimentary beverages (2 per member) is at the Tusk Bar upstairs in the Main Lodge, which also has more space for us to party. Again this year, you will have the option of signing up only for what you want to do at Convention, our ‘A La Carte’ ordering. For lodging, see the side-bar for some great options. We are working hard to provide our members the best value we can for this event. The folks at Mammoth Mountain have gone out of their way to welcome our membership by waiving or discounting some of their normal group fees. We greatly appreciate it. How to Sign Up: Use the enclosed form on Page 3, or go to our Western Division website - www. psia-w.org - and click on the link to the new PSIA/AASI-W Online Store. There, you’ll be able to create an account with your national ID number, then register and pay online for Convention. PSIA/ AASI-W has been testing online payment options, and we are pleased to be offering this service to our members for this event. Thanks for your patience and cooperation. Clinic Descriptions and Registration: Clinic descriptions are being finalized and will be available online from March The Edge, Spring 2007 - Page 2
Here Are Some Tips on Convention Housing Attendees must arrange their own lodging. Mammoth Mountain has offered our membership discounts at all three Mammoth operated resorts - Mammoth Mountain Inn, Juniper Springs Resort, and The Village. Room options vary from regular hotel rooms to one and two bedroom condominiums. Prices range from $85 to $200 a night, depending on the level of luxury and convenience you are looking for. Mammoth has made these rooms available for our members from April 25-May 1. When rooms are shared with friends, it becomes a very reasonable option for Mammoth Lodging. For information on all these options, go to www. mammothmountain.com, click on “Plan Your Trip,” then “lodging.” To book lodging, go to: https://lodging.mammothmountain.com/v1web/ Availability.asp?WCI=Groups&WCE=GroupSelect, enter our Group ID# 3177, Password# 37000778. Or call 800-MAMMOTH. Identify yourself as a PSIA member. If you want more options for lodging, try the Mammoth Reservation Bureau, who can access a number of different condominium options in town: Steve Norton, Reservation manager www.Mammothreservationbureau.com office 800-462-5571 x 224 local 760-934-2528 fax 760-934-2317 Again, mention that you are a PSIA/AASI member for discounts. 16- April 15, in conjunction with our Convention shopping cart. Please do not enter yourself in more than one clinic per time slot! T-Shirts We are working on a nice T-shirt to help you remember the event. We will do our best to have the size that you prefer, but we cannot guarantee that we will have the correct size for every attendee. We ask for your patience in this, as well.
We are looking forward to a great time and lots of turns with our fellow instructors. Please try and get all reservations in as soon as possible to assure that you get the best experience possible. Our new Online Store will be a great way to get your registration in quickly, but you can also use the old paper standby in the Edge. However you register, we’ll see you at Mammoth in April! Ski ya later, Weavin’ Steven Evenson
PSIA/AASI-W Welcomes You To: The 2007 PSIA/AASI-W Spring Convention will be held at Mammoth Mountain, April 27-29. Use this form to sign up by mail or fax. Or, signup online by going to www.psia-w.org and clicking on the link to our new online store. Pre-registration for clinics will be available in our online store from approximately March 16-April 16. Clinics are offered twice a day, morning and afternoon Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The Kick Off Party will be held Friday evening from 5-7 at the Tusk Bar in the Main Lodge. The banquet will be held on Saturday evening 6-10 at Grizzly Theatre, Canyon Lodge. Mammoth lift tickets are not included in the registration prices. Add $10 per day if you do not have a Mammoth pass. Late Registrations: We will accept last-minute registrations, with the late fee option, but after April 20, please bring this form with you. Late registrants may not receive a T-shirt.
Please select ONE package: Fri, Sat & Sun (includes Kick-Off Party and Banquet) Fri & Sat (includes Kick-Off Party and Banquet) Sat & Sun (includes Banquet) Fri & Sun (includes Kick-Off Party) Fri (includes Kick-Off Party) Sat only (includes Banquet)
..............................$220 ..............................$170 ..............................$160 ..............................$125 ................................$75 ..............................$100
A La Carte ordering: CLINICS ONLY - (circle days) Fri, Sat, Sun (includes lift ticket) Kick-Off Party only Banquet only
.............................. $60 day .............................. $15 .............................. $40
Subtotal Add $10 per day for lift ticket, if needed Total enclosed
After April 13 .....$240 .....$190 .....$180 .....$145 ..... $95 .....$120 ..... $80 day ..... .....
.............................. $________________ .............................. $________________ .............................. $________________
Member name: ___________________________________________________ PSIA/AASI National ID # _____________________ Billing Address (city/state/zip) ___________________________________________________________________________________ Discipline (circle one) Alpine Snowboard Nordic Adaptive Email: _____________________________________________ Preferred T-shirt size (check one) XL _____ L _____ M _____ S _____ Paying by Check Credit Card
VISA MasterCard
Check # __________________ Amount $ ___________________ _____________________________________________________ _______________________________ Account #
Expires
Signature: ________________________________________________________________ Security Code: ____________________ Exams: PSIA/AASI is offering several exams in conjunction with Convention. Please indicate here if you are signing up (check below): Children’s Spec 1 ____ Alpine Level 1 exam ____ Snowboard Level 1 ____ Telemark Level 1 ____ Adaptive Exam ____Senior’s Accreditation ____ CANCELLATION POLICY/FEE: 1 week or more prior to event - $10; less than 1 week and more than 2 business days prior to event - 50%; less than 2 business days prior to event / No Shows - 100% (no refund). RETURNED CHECKS/DECLINED CHARGES: Returned checks will NOT be re-deposited and a $25 fee will be assessed. All returned checks or declined charges must be re-paid 2 business days prior to the event or registration will be cancelled.
Release of Liability - signature required I _________________________________ DECLARE: I AM AN EXPERIENCED SKIER/BOARDER AND INSTRUCTOR, I WISH TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS EVENT. IN CONSIDERATION OF ACCEPTANCE TO AND PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT, I HEREBY WAIVE, RELEASE AND FOREVER DISCHARGE THE SKI AREAS, PSIA-W, EXAMINERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, MEMBERS, SPONSORS AND ALL OTHER PERSONS CONNECTED WITH THIS EVENT FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITY FOR INJURY, DAMAGE OR DEATH, CAUSED BY THE NEGLIGENCE OR OTHER UNINTENTIONAL CONDUCT. I AM AWARE OF THE RISKS OF SKIING, INCLUDING SERIOUS INJURY AND DEATH. I AGREE TO ASSUME ALL RISKS AND TO RELEASE ALL PERSONS ABOVE FROM ANY LIABILITY FOR NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE ACTIONABLE CONDUCT. I HAVE FULLY READ AND VOLUNTARILY AGREE TO THE ABOVE TERMS AND CONDITIONS. APPLICANT SIGNATURE
DATE
PARENT OR GUARDIAN (REQUIRED IF APPLICANT IS UNDER 18)
Return form with payment to: PSIA-W • 9709 Highway 267 • Truckee, CA 96161
DATE
or fax to: 530-587-4273
DO NOT SEND WITHOUT PAYMENT • REGISTRATION BY MAIL OR FAX ONLY • PHONE REGISTRATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
The Edge, Spring 2007 - Page 3
Boarding - Ken Mattson, Snowboard VP
Another Deliverable from the Snowboard Committee Well it is finally here as promised. The AASI-W Trainers and Examiners Manual 2006/2007 edition is now posted on the PSIA-W website. This manual is, and should always be, in “draft” form, as it will be up to all of us to continually update it in order to better serve the membership. This overdue tool was designed for the AASI-W Tech Team, and by the Snowboard Committee to provide the team with useful information, sample event outlines and event criteria. The good news is that this manual will serve the snowboard membership as well. Use this tool to prepare for exams. Answer questions like, “What should I expect at a Level 3 teaching module?” This manual has it all, from our new movement analysis form for L2 and L3 teaching, to Trainers Accreditation and Children’s Specialist qualifications. I look forward to the addition of
Freestyle Accreditation standards as well as Adaptive Snowboarding standards. Thanks to everyone involved in the creation of this manual, and to Amy Louisa for delivering it to all of us.
Teaching Tip: The Pow-Pow Relay Well, it finally happened: it snowed in Tahoe. It was my first powder day this season, and it sure was fun getting all those secret stashes I learned about last year. I took a few of my new instructors on some of my adventures, and learned that they were not aware of the Pow-Pow Relay. It made me think, “I should share this with everyone in
the next edition of the “Edge.” As you all know the best stashes are the ones that are hard to get to, or hard to get out of. For all of us on snowboards that means the long brutal traverse. Here is a trick I use. The Pow Pow relay. The first step is to send the leader down the untracked traverse. When the friction of the new snow makes the leader stop, send down the next rider in the same track as the leader. There will be less friction in that track. When the second rider passes below the first, the relay begins. Just make sure the second rider drops below the first. If the rider goes above the first, the lower person will have to climb up into the second rider’s track- way too much work. When the second rider slows from friction, a third rider can join the relay, sort of like leap frog. Repeat the process until you are out of the flats.
Snowboard Demo Team Tryouts Set The time has come to select a new Western Snowboard Demonstration Team. Tryouts for the Western Team will be held at the end of this season at Mammoth Mountain on May 2nd and 3rd. The snowboard Demo Team represents the elite of our instructors and is a chance to be a leader within our division. Those selected will spend the 2007/08 season giving clinics throughout the division, and training for the National Demo team tryouts, which will be held at Snowbird in the spring of 2008. The regional tryouts are open to any current AASI-W snowboard instructor. It is expected that the candidates will be experienced as clinicians and trainers, although they do not have to be a current member of the AASI-W Tech Team. For sign-up information and requirements, see the PSIA-W website www. psia-w.org, and start training! The Edge, Spring 2007 - Page 4
Senior Accreditation - Ted Pitcher
Senior Accreditation Is Coming Up Fast at Convention The PSIA-W ground breaking Senior Specialist Accreditation is coming up fast! The 3-day event will take place at Mammoth during Convention on April 27th, 28th, and 29th. Successful candidates will receive our new Seniors Specialist pin on the third day. Our curriculum and handbook are on the PSIA-W website. The Accreditation is open to any Level II or Level III instructor. This is a teaching clinic/exam. Your skiing will be coached but there is no skiing exam. On snow training and testing will consist of: 1. Technical elements of contemporary skiing as applied to seniors. How modern technique can optimize strength and balance in senior skiers. 2. Tactical elements and changes in tactics for seniors to optimize balance and strength in terrain and snow conditions. 3. Equipment-How modern skis (and the contemporary technique they allow) can expand the enjoyment and limits of the senior skier. 4. Methodology - How to work with seniors to “buy in” to the new equipment and technique. 5. Pace - How to establish a suitable pace for seniors. Physical limitations, etc. 6. Group Dynamics - Many seniors have led interesting lives with long skiing histories. Ways to use those backgrounds to establish group interaction (life long passion for snow sports!) 7. Adapting teaching model to seniors. Goal setting. 8. Working with advanced and expert senior skiers. 9. Working with intermediate and novice senior skiers. 10. Candidates will teach and be evaluated on the 3rd day. 11. Some of our senior instructors no longer ski bumps or steeps. Because this is not a skiing test, groups will be divided into two groups: Cruisers who will stay on the groomers and the all terrain groups who will ski a small percentage of moderate steeps and moderate bumps and develop teaching strategies for seniors on this terrain as well as contemporary technique on the groomers. Indoor afternoon sessions will consist of: 1. Review of senior handbook. 2. Demographics of senior skiing population. 3. Physiology of aging (strength, flexibility, vision, hearing, balance and pre-season training). 4. Psychology of Aging and Sports presented by Elissa Slanger, renowned instructor, founder of Woman’s Way Skiing Clinics, professional Psychologist, Sports Psychologist to the PSIA-W Divisional Demo Team, and Senior Committee
The new Seniors Specialist pin is offered at 3-day Convention clinic in Mammoth.
member. 5. Equipment information-boot geometry and ski selection for older skiers. 6. How to establish a senior program at your ski resort, presented by Rusty Crook and Ernie Grey, Senior Committee members and veteran instructors who oversee huge senior programs at Mount Rose and Donner Ski Ranch respectively. This is shaping up to be a great event filled with lots of information, lots of coaching and skiing and lots of fun. Be a part of something new. Sign up now! The Edge, Spring 2007 - Page 5
Heritage Committee, Doug Pringle
Remembering the Early Days of Adaptive in Far West
In 1972 I showed up at legged movements. Of the Far West Ski Associacourse, I responded that tion’s Convention at Bear the test should be about Valley. I had registered to the individual’s abiltake the alpine full cert ity to teach the skills exam. I had been working and the progression reat the National Ampugardless of whether or not they have the same tee Skiers Association, a ski school consisting of a body parts. If they can teach it, they should few amputees who were teaching other amputees pass, especially if they returning from Viet Nam. can do it without one of the primary teachThe ski school director was ing methods: visual or a full cert PSIA member, demonstration. Jim Winthers, who was also a 10th Mountain Division I went away without the result I was seekWW II vet and a pioneer in adaptive skiing. This is ing. the Association that would Boys of Winter (from left): Kenny Newsome, Dave Rayder, Jim Thweat, But, I am a persistent ineventually become Dis- Bob Guerrero, Doug Pringle. dividual, so I put together abled Sports USA. our own (Disabled Sports Back in that day there was some sort of special dispensation USA) “Instructor Training and Certification Program.” clause under which one could go directly for full certification. We utilized and modified all the PSIA materials we could I did. What they didn’t know was that I was a three-track (one find, and fortunately, I found Ted Pitcher, a “real” clinician and legged) skier. Randy Short, who I believe was Chief Examiner, examiner, and he taught us how to do exams. I grandfathered grabbed a few others and put me through the exam. in ten of the best adaptive instructors from across the nation. There were some obvious challenges: as a one-legged skier, I made sure they were all Full Certified alpine. I made them how would I demonstrate a wedge, or any of the other two- Full Certified adaptive, clinicians and examiners. legged maneuvers? Fortunately, I had taught a good number of I then went to PSIA National and said “you should take a blind skiers, who couldn’t see a demo even if I could do one. I look at this, which they did. After a few years, they decided to had become quite adept at verbally describing what I wanted recognize our results and allow the instructors we certified to the student to do, thus compensating for their inability to see become members of PSIA with Level 1, 2 or 3 Adaptive Cert. a demo and my inability to perform one. We even had our own pin. Somehow, I passed (I think they were lenient as I was a VietAfter several years of accepting the people we were certifying nam Vet, etc.). Years later, with lots of teaching experience I all over the nation, PSIA decided to make Adaptive Cert an became a “Full Cert” instructor. official part of the organization and to “take over” the program About 10 years later I went to a meeting to discuss how we had developed. Which is what we wanted. The PSIA diviwe could increase the number of people with disabilities sions soon followed. who were certified and include a wider range of disabilities. Doug Pringle is a West Point graduate, Vietnam Vet, Adaptive The response I got was kind of a shock. The Certification Committee told me that their thinking was that if you skied skier and Level III certified ski instructor. His vision, inspiraon one leg, you should only be certified to teach people who tion, hard work and leadership were the moving force behind the establishment of Adaptive Certification as a PSIA National skied on one leg. Being a wise guy, I looked at the gentleman who put forth Discipline. this theory, (he had curly hair and wore glasses) and said, “Oh, Doug represented Adaptive Instructors on the PSIA AASI so if you have curly hair, you can only teach people with curly National Board of Directors for many years. He continues hair? And if you are nearsighted, you can only teach people who his dedicated work as leader of Disabled Sports USA-Far are nearsighted?” West, an organization whose mission is to provide affordable After a moment of silence, they explained that a inclusive physical and recreational activities for the disabled one-legged skier would not be able to demonstrate two community. The Edge, Spring 2007 - Page 6
Cap off a busy 2006-07 season with clinics in the great spring snow at Mammoth during the Convention.
Alpine - Mike Hafer, Alpine VP
Unlike Weather, Clinic Participation Is Up This Season
It has been an interesting year with the weather to say the least. The last storms have provided some light into the second half of the season. The snow makers have been earning their money this season, and we owe them our thanks. Not only have they saved the season for most resorts, they have allowed us to pull off most of our PSIA/AASI clinics. In spite of sometimes challenging conditions, clinic participation this year is up. Good job to those that are continuing their education and remaining current. Your support for the division is appreciated. Fall Rally/Ed core had a showing of about 125 skiers on a patch of snow at Squaw Valley. The main focus was to bring the trainers up to speed on the module format. This was a huge success according to the feedback received from those who participated and the results from the modules that we have held thus far. The participants were well coached in the format that we are providing. We introduced the new ‘module’ format for our Level 1 exam in December, and some new members took advantage of this early season certification opportunity. This has given them an opportunity to add to their bag of tricks and improve their teaching and the quality of their lessons. Congratulations to those who have been successful. In January, we were privileged to have Nick Herrin and Chris
Fellows from the National Demonstration Team lead a great “Ski with the D-Team” event at Sugar Bowl. These guys shared the most current movement patterns with the division. The first “Seniors” clinic for this year sold out! We are looking forward to holding more of these events this season. Now we are entering the busy second half of the season. There are many modules in the month of March and other accreditations. Please make sure that your applications are in prior to the two week deadlines. These events fill up quickly. Good luck to everyone that will be participating in moving their careers along. Just as a reminder, there are still many member schools that have clinics available to them relative to the level of membership they have purchased. Please keep in mind that our Tech Team will be extremely busy in the upcoming months. The director or manager of the schools needs to arrange these clinics with the Tech Team members directly. These clinics can be used for anything other than a certification clinic. Just a few changes to announce: we will be offering a Level 1 Module at Convention and the two Modules (Level 1 and 2 at Snow Summit) that were canceled in January will be added to the calendar in March. Keep an eye out for the changes on the web. There is a lot of season left. I hope to see you on the hill. Let’s hope for more snow, after all it is the Sierras. The Edge, Spring 2007 - Page 7
Please Use the Accompanying Ballot To Make Your Choices: Deadline Is April 9.
Your Candidates for the PSIA-W Board of Directors Following are alphabetical profiles submitted by the candidates for the PSIA-W Board of Directors. Successful candidates earn a three-year term on the Board. Now, it’s your turn to make your voice heard. Please, read all the profiles. Then vote. Simply use the attached, postage-paid ballot. Make four (4) selections from the list of nine by checking the names of those you would like to represent you. Please take this opportunity to vote. The deadline for mailing your ballot is April 9. Thank you.
Robert Chamblin
I remember the time when I put my first pair of skis on. I thought, “Who needs a lesson?” Well I did. After two years of taking lessons I thought I was good enough to be an instructor and that I knew everything about skiing. I WAS WRONG about knowing everything. My hunger for knowledge was so high I was asking the other instructors at the ski resort for answers. After six years of teaching, my supervisor said since I was so hungry for knowledge I should join PSIA/AASI and they would help me answer all of my questions. She told me all about the clinics and becoming a certified instructor, so I took her advice and I joined. I am now a certified ski and snowboard instructor, a Children’s Specialist 2, a current Children’s CoChairperson as well as a children’s manager and trainer. I have worked in Southern California at Snow Valley, Mammoth, Mountain High and now at Homewood in Tahoe. After 25 years of being an instructor, my thirst for knowledge is still here. Thank you for all the support you’ve given me this season.
Kemp Dowdy
I would like to introduce myself, for those of you who don’t know me. My name is Kemp Dowdy, or that guy who played some hockey! I have been sharing my passion for this sport and teaching skiing for 14 seasons, ten seasons here in the Western Division and four seasons down under. During this time I have become fully certified and I am on the Western Division Tech Team. I also have race coach certifications, Freestyle Accreditation, and my Children’s Specialist 2. During my 14 seasons I have been an instructor, staff trainer, and a supervisor at my home mountain. I believe all of us are here to share what we love to do, and I believe strongly that the children are a huge part of the future of our sport. I also believe that the freestyle vibe is here to stay and while we grow as teachers we must grow with these very important programs. As a board member I look forward to helping these programs grow and develop. Teaching skiing and
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sharing my love of this sport is what I love to do, and I would love to help grow our sport and be part of spreading our passion as a board member here in our Division!
Doug Fagel
The continued progression of our sports and our industry makes me excited to help develop this already outstanding division. I have taken an active role in the Western Division, developing the AASI-W Freestyle Accreditations this season with the first Level One sessions bringing out 18 candidates. I am a dedicated and ambitious individual that has worked in the industry full time for the last eight seasons. I hope to continue to devote my time and energy to the growth and development of the division as a member of the Board of Directors. I started teaching snowboarding at Whiteface Mountain in New York where I obtained the AASI-E Level One Certification and started a weekend freestyle coaching program for local snowboarders. Moving out to the Lake Tahoe Area in 2001, I started working at Sugar Bowl and have been there for the last six years. I received my AASI-W Level Two Certification in the spring of 2002 and AASI-W Level Three Certification the following year. I took over as the Snowboard Supervisor at Sugar Bowl for the 2003-2004 season, and I am the founder, manager and head coach of the Sugar Bowl Snowboard Team, a youth program for 7-18 year olds. I am currently an AASI-W Tech Team Member and developed the new Snowboard Freestyle Accreditations for the Western Division. The new Accreditations are already seeing great success in their first season and are expected to be seen as one of the best freestyle coaching programs in the country. Working alongside many other strong educators, I have done many things to help contribute to the development to the Western Division and would like to continue to contribute as a member of the PSIA/AASI-W Board of Directors. I am a USSCA Level Two Certified Coach and am currently working to set up a NonProfit Organization for the Sugar Bowl Snowboard Team. In the summer season, I am a pilot and a stock holder representative for Phoenix East Aviation, a flight school in Daytona Beach, (Continued on page 9)
Your Candidates for the PSIA-W Board of Directors Florida. Please extend your vote me, Doug Fagel, to help the continued development of Snowboard Education in the Western Division; oh yeah, I can ski too.
Greg Lyons
Hello. My name is Greg Lyons and I am seeking a second term as a member of the Board of Directors. I am a fulltime children’s instructor and a trainer for Heavenly Resort, and an alpine Tech Team member. My wife and I have three daughters, two closing in on the teenage years and one preparing for pre-school. I have watched and participated in spirited discussion of ways to improve the division through products, communication and clinics and exam standards. Your advice and comments help create new ideas to improve PSIA/AASI-W. Thank you! My present position is the Co-Chairman of the Children’s Committee.This year I added two events to the children’s calendar; the Children’s Symposium and a CS2 in Southern California. Last year I brought forth the idea of a season pass for education. This is the second year the season pass has been offered. I hope to continue these offerings and bring other new ideas to the membership. I would like to continue to represent you on the PSIA/AASIW Board of Directors. Thank you for your consideration.
Ken Mattson
Well once again it is election time and I am asking for the opportunity to serve you, as a representative on the Board. As you can see by the picture, AASI and PSIA are literally in my blood. Ouch... It has been a very rewarding 3 years on the Board, and I am very proud of our accomplishments. I was very involved with the implementation of the exam module format. We were able to offer a much better product and I fought tooth and nail to keep them at very reasonable prices. I am also proud of the steps made at the BOD level regarding the children’s program. I am most proud to serve on the Executive Committee as your Snowboard VP. The Snowboard Committee has come a long way in just two years, and I thank the members on my team for all their hard work. There is still lots of work to be done, and if re-elected I will continue to push for responsible event and member fees. I will also continue to fight hard for those of us who are trying to make a living in this profession. I will encourage snowsports school directors and area GMs to continually push for upgraded benefits for all AASI/PSIA Staff. I will also fight for the best interest of the AASI Snowboard Adaptive program.
Again, thanks for the opportunity. Ken Mattson Qualifications:
SnowSports School Director, Homewood Current AASI/PSIA-W Snowboard Vice President AASI Level 3 Clinician/Examiner AASI Children’s Specialist Clinician/Examiner PSIA Level 2 Instructor AASI/PSIA Level 1 Adaptive Instructor AASI/PSIA Level 2 Children’s Specialist
Clay Sawyer
Hello, my name is Clay Sawyer and I am requesting your vote for membership on the PSIA/AASI Board of Directors. I am Level 3 Snowboard, a certified skier, and a current member of the Tech Team for the 2007 season. Some of you may remember me from past exams, and conventions. I have worked with many of you over the years and watched as you progressed and became stronger riders, teachers, and a few who became Tech Team members yourselves. It has been my privilege and honor to serve the membership as a trainer and an examiner, and I would now like the opportunity to serve as a member of the board. Teaching snowboarding is a passion that began for me 13 years ago in Southern California. At that time, I was very fortunate to witness the birth of AASI and be involved in its inception and growth. I have been an active Tech Team member for the last ten years, which has afforded me the opportunity to grow with the organization, and witness all the profound changes over the years as well as to work with some exceptional individuals. The commitment and dedication of our membership in the pursuit of promoting higher educational standards is extraordinary. I recently read a Zen quote that states, “No snowflake ever falls in the wrong place.” As I reflected upon the meaning, I realized that like the snowflake, each of us exists in this industry for a purpose; to bring the joy, passion, and freedom of expression to others that is skiing and snowboarding. If elected, I will do my best to help our division continue to spread the joy, the passion, and continue the pursuit of educational excellence with a continued snowboard presence on the board. I will serve as a representative for all instructors, both young and old, because like the snowflake, you have all fallen in the right place. Thank you for your consideration.
Dave Sutherland
Hello, I am Dave Sutherland. You may remember me for the “DaveS out of the box” column in “The Edge.” A former (Continued on page 10)
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Your Candidates for the PSIA-W Board of Directors Board member and a long time ski instructor (currently Senior Trainer at Mt Baldy), I have been contacted by local school personnel to run for the Board once again. Having started teaching in 437 BC, I have seen many changes in the industry. Two items showed up on the ski scene early (around 420 BC if I recall) that were indispensable: duct tape and WD40. Duct tape for boot leaks and clothing repair (early ski clothing was quite primitive) and WD40 for those poor soles that wore Hanson neoprene lined boots. Flash forward... The PSIA-W Board today might find use of these two miracle products to better enhance the member’s experience (yours!). Duct tape to repair those items that need fix’en and WD40 so that new ideas can find their way, which would serve the needs of the entire membership. We are in a sport that is no longer growing at the pace it once enjoyed and many smaller areas have disappeared completely. Perhaps we might reflect on the current role PSIA-W plays with these areas. Smaller areas, as well as areas in Southern California, have different needs than large resorts. Addressing these needs helps to keep the pipeline full with new skiers and boarders that visit larger resorts. For many, their first experience is at their local mountain, the breeding ground, yet it is these places that sometimes do not get the support from our Association to help them. Large and small areas are joined at the hip, we both need each other. This lack of support may be due to the lack of representation on the Board from these areas. The “Boston tea party” exemplified a “no taxation without representation” policy. Look what happened. I have been a longtime PSIA member and an advocate of the small areas. I will bring a voice that will represent you and the many of you who feel that they have been left behind. You can play a large role in what I hope to be the “revival” period for our beloved sports. I vow to help make this an organization that you can proudly say, “I am a Member.” I appreciate your support and Vote. Thank you, Dave Sutherland
Finlay Torrance
Howdy Yawl. I respectfully request your vote for a second term as your representative on the AASI/PSIA Board of Directors. For those of you that do not know me, I’m a full time ski and snowboard professional. I have worked internationally and I have examined in both snowboard and ski disciplines. My chosen career has an influence on the decisions I make, both at work for the school at Mammoth Mountain and in matters that affect the direction of our Association and industry. Snow sports certification is a global industry. The international and national competency of AASI/PSIA-W instructors is judged
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by the certification standard our Association upholds. As your representative I have been active in assuring that we have exam standards that are equivalent with other ISIA nations. In my past term I helped to streamline the process by which member schools apply for Visa employees. My efforts helped to expedite this process. At the request of the member schools, each school now pays dues that include clinic time to be used to provide the most relevant training at their school. I have a proven record of performance and hope to continue to improve the service and quality that this Association provides you, the member. Our membership is a large and diverse body with many members specializing in their chosen discipline or demographic. Your representatives should possess a wide range of experience if they are to make decisions that are in the best interest of the entire Association. I have worked in the outdoor education industry for 21 years, teaching adaptive, alpine, snowboard and telemark. I’m still having a great time and I would appreciate your vote. Thanks for your time and may the force be with you. Finlay Torrance Manager, Mammoth Ski & Snowboard School AASI/PSIA Education Chair (07)
Carl Underkoffler
PSIA-W Members, I am seeking a third term to sit as a representative for you on your Board of Directors. My experience at both the national level and divisional level makes me a strong representative for you. I have been instrumental in many programs that have benefited the membership. The re-birth of the Fall Rally, the addition of the Winter Carnival and the new module approach to evaluating candidates are a few of the projects I have spearheaded or developed. Working as the Alpine Vice President, we created an assessment procedure for the advanced educators in the Division to keep them sharp, hence delivering to you the membership top quality training and clinics. Our current Board is focused on delivering tangible benefits to our members. I have delivered, and wish to deliver more. That is why I seek your support in this coming election. Respectfully, Carl Underkoffler PSIA-W Executive VP 2006 PSIA-W Alpine VP 2000-05 PSIA Alpine Demonstration Team 1996-2004 PSIA-W Tech Team since 1989
Nordic Notes - Urmas Franosch
An Update on the Nordic National Team, Season Events
While some late February storms happily changed the picture, most of the season has limped along on a marginal snowpack. But even when snow conditions aren’t the greatest, there is plenty to work on with your skiing. I have a few tips on getting the most training value and skiing enjoyment out of the firm groomed runs we were stuck with most of this season. Work on your skiing! We tele skiers love to go off-piste to ski deep snow. Let’s not forget all the ways we can enjoy groomed snow. Here are a few suggestions: Improve your carved turns. Ride the beginner lift and teach yourself how to lay down the perfect railroad tracks in parallel and telemark. Then try it on the blue square groomers. Don’t be satisfied with “almost carved.” Check your tracks and work on it ‘till they’re perfect. Practice sideslips in a corridor. These are challenging to do in a telemark. Firm snow is great for this drill. Get into racing. Telemark racers love these conditions. Spend some time skiing on one ski. You will gain greater control over your back ski by practicing one ski carves on the little toe side of your foot. Cross train. Get on your snowboard or learn to ice skate. If you are a cross-country nord – no problem, the tracks (at least around here) are great. Party on!
Don’t forget to set aside the 27th through the 29th of April for the PSIA-W Spring Convention at Mammoth. The spring skiing is usually awesome at Mammoth and so are the clinicians. Telemark clinics will be happening for all levels, and if conditions permit, we will offer skating clinics. This is the one event of the season where all the disciplines party together. Telemark demos will be available for those who want to check out what all the excitement is about! So tell your fixed heel and snowboarding buddies to free their heels at the convention. ‘Till then think snow, and get out there and enjoy what we have!
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The PSIA/AASI-W Adaptive Tech Team poses for photo.
By Robin Conners and Haakon Lang-Ree, Adaptive Committee members
PSIA-W Tech Team Clarifies Standards for Adaptive Exam
The PSIA-W Adaptive Tech Team met in late January for their annual Tech Team training and Adaptive Committee meeting. With the changes in the adaptive exams, this was a packed weekend. The adaptive Level 1 and 2 exams have officially been changed to the module format.
The Adaptive Level 1 A candidate must pass the Alpine Level 1 skiing standard. At that point they become eligible to take any one of the three adaptive specific teaching modules listed below to receive a Level 1 Certification. The Adaptive Modules Level 1 Sit Down (1 day mono-ski, 1 day bi-ski) Level 1 Outriggers (1 day 3 track, 1 day 4 track) Level 1 Cognitive and Low Vision (1 day of each) Each adaptive specific teaching module is a two-day event. The two days must be taken consecutively and will test through the intermediate zone. The written test is now a take home workbook to be turned in prior to the Adaptive Specific Teaching Module. The Adaptive Level 2 Once an instructor has passed all three Adaptive Specific Teaching Modules and one day of Level 2 skiing they will reThe Edge, Spring 2007 - Page 12
ceive their Level 2 Certification. All modules will incorporate coaching to enable as many candidates as possible to increase their knowledge and pass.
The standards for both skiing and teaching have been clarified. The Adaptive Study Guide outlines the complete standards. It is available for download at the instructional page of the Western Division web-site, www.psia-w.org. Skiing will align directly with the alpine standards for all three levels thanks to alpine Tech Team member Terry Peters guiding the adaptive Examiners on the hill the second day. The PSIA-W Adaptive Committee meeting went into the late hours of the night. Haakon Lang-Ree is the new Committee Chair with Hannah Sullivan the Secretary and Robin Conners the Treasurer. Other members are: Peter Axelson, Bill Bowness, Dave Owings, Glen Smith, Karen Taketomo and newest member, Nicole Charshafian. The committee is pleased they were able to make the decisions and get the needed work done to go to the module system. The committee will also be working closely with the hard working members who are developing the AASI Adaptive Snowboard Program. Adaptive teaching is one of the most rewarding venues anyone can be involved in. It is a great way to expand your teaching skills. We invite you to be in touch with any of the Adaptive Committee members to become involved.
Scholarships - By Diana Proemm
Hartford Ski Spectacular Brings Wealth of Information Diana Proemm was awarded the Adaptive Scholarship by the PSIA Foundation to attend the Hartford Ski Spectacular. An opportunity arose for me to attend the Hartford Ski Spectacular in Breckenridge, Colorado; a chance to train with the nation’s best in all snow sport disciplines. Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra (DSES) and the PSIA Sodergren Scholarship Fund allowed me to attend some incredible adaptive clinics. I went to ski spectacular with 3 other volunteers from DSES, and I was green to what I was in for. Wheelchairs, prosthetics and an adaptive equipment truck loaded to the hilt awaited me. The great thing about Ski Spectacular is that lessons are offered to those who want to learn to ski or snowboard-no matter what your level or disability, as well as clinics for instructors in all disabilities. I was thrilled and excited to see so many people there. I can’t say what I was most eager about, to see so many people with disabilities out on the slopes ripping it up or having the opportunity to attend clinics from some of the most knowledgeable trainers in the country. Since I have been working in the adaptive ski industry for a few years, I have heard about people that have made milestones in the industry or who have accomplished many things. The chance of getting to meet any of them is usually slim to none, unless you go to Ski Spectacular. An indoor slider clinic was my first clinic and was filled with many trainers from other programs around the country all waiting to have their brains filled with information. The clinic was great and the best part was that all participants had the opportunity to share what worked and what didn’t work with the slider. I went away from that clinic a happy girl, my head filled with new knowledge. The rest of my clinics were extremely informative, given by knowledgeable trainers working in the adaptive industry. I was like a sponge soaking it up. The clinics
Instructors Anita Haenni, Ken Klein, Diana Proemm, Terry Smutney at Breckenridge, Colorado.
A Thank You from PSIA/AASI PSIA/AASI would like to extend our thanks to Diana Proemm for her stunning photos that were included in the 2006/07 calendar (check out December and April.) For more information or to view Diana’s work, go to www.dpphoto.net. I signed up for were based upon my current knowledge or lack thereof, and what I received from these clinics was a sense of accomplishment, relief and a higher comfort level on specific disciplines. My goal for the three days of clinics was to bring back the information I learned to share with my volunteers and students at Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra, at Mammoth Mountain. I definitely achieved that goal with the plethora of information I received.
PSIA/AASI-W Publicity and Advisory Committee Update by Heidi Ettlinger
Retaining certified instructors is vital.
This year, the Publicity and Advisory Committee (PAC) introduced the Alpine Trainers & Examiners Manual. We also took in membership feedback that helped us re-design our new educational events. The PAC worked with the Alpine Committee to build training events that are appealing for our experienced and new instructors. Our focus remains on recruitment of new instructors and retaining our certified instructors. Advancing our profession depends on supporting our experienced instructors
and bringing in new talent. The division is looking forward to using PSIA National recruitment posters and flyers. These materials will complement our (in progress) redesign of the PSIA/AASIW website. At the next Board Meeting we plan to open a discussion regarding inquiries from non-ski school employees about Learn To Be programs offered by PSIA/ AASI. Please forward any feedback you have for the PAC to heidiettlinger@yahoo. com. The Edge, Spring 2007 - Page 13
Children’s - By Greg Lyons, Co-Chair Children’s Committee
Children’s Tip: Training the Feet To Improve Skiing
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your students make all right movements, but their skis seem to stay in the same place? Kiera is a young girl learning to do straight runs and stop. She is seen here showing some common moves when trying to accomplish these tasks. Notice she is happy doing all the moves, however some of them are not having the desired effect. It is up to her in(1) Knees together ... (2) knees apart ... (3) feet apart, good stance. structor to keep her happy and guide her into making moves that help her imLook at photo three. Kiera’s feet are no longer beneath her prove her skiing! hips. Movement has occurred resulting in her skis moving Look at the first photo. Kiera’s knees are touching and her away from each other. How did she do this? She moved skis are beneath her hips. her feet! In the second photo, Kiera’s knees are far apart, and her Remember, biomechanically the muscles and coordination skis are still beneath her. The movement in the knees did of those muscles in young children are developing. Their extra result in edge changes, but did not move the skis significantly flexibility allows them to make movements that adults simply farther or closer away from each other. are not capable of. If she was trying to go from a straight run to a wedge Be prepared to help train the rotation and movement or railroad tracks, moving just the knees is not the solu- of the feet with the goal of creating a wedge and stoption. ping.
A Letter To All Members of PSIA-W
I was the victim of a near fatal hit and run collision in the half pipe in front of Main Lodge in Mammoth on April 6, 2006, during a Level III ski exam. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who helped me during the difficult time after the accident; and particularly Tim Rankins whose immediate first aid provided me with the medical attention and emotional support I desperately needed; and Mark Spieler who devoted tremendous effort and energy into helping me with all of the practical details following my accident, and who organized and coordinated a fund raising effort on my behalf to help me in dealing with huge medical bills. I appreciate your help more than I can easily express. I would not be where I am today, teaching again at Mammoth, without your help! Your support, your kind words, your cards and letters all The Edge, Spring 2007 - Page 14
helped me stay positive, even when the doctors and circumstances were less optimistic. It is amazing how much a card or a kind word can mean when you are absolutely miserable. It is frightening to discover how much your life can change in a split second - through no fault of your own. But it has been wonderful to discover how much friendship and support can mean in a time of need. I was proud to join the PSIA last winter as I was always impressed by what it stood for. Your help and support proved to me that I was absolutely right and that makes me feel very thankful, appreciative and happy. Thank you again my friends, colleagues, and members of PSIA-West. You are all wonderful!!! Andrzej Kosmala
2007-08 Renewal Dues
PSIA-W/AASI-W • 9709 Hwy. 267 • Truckee, CA 96161 (Not to be used for new memberships!)
Our dues for 2007/2008 are not due until June 30, 2007. We offer the following form as a convenience if you will be traveling this summer, or wish to pay early to avoid late fees. You may also pay on-line on the National website, www.psia.org, after May 1. Check one:
Name __________________________________________________________
Registered Membership Active Membership Inactive Membership Special Inactive Student (please include school schedule) Apprentice
$75 $75 $75 $35 $40 $35
Total Dues
$ _______
Sodergren/Ed Found Donation
$ _______
Total Amount Enclosed
$ _______
Address ________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip ____________________________________________________ Phone ________________ Email ____________________________________ Charge to: VISA
MasterCard Expiration Date __________________
Credit Card # _____________________________________________________ Signature ________________________________ Security Code: __________ Please return this form with your remittance. You should receive your membership card shortly.
You can check your membership status and pay online at www.psia.org.
What Do I Get for My Dues?
Certification: PSIA/AASI certification is recognized across the country, and internationally, and often can mean increased wages, additional benefits, and recognition. Discounts: Certified members are eligible for discounts on lift tickets at various snowsports resorts. Check our website, www.psia-w.org, and click on ‘Member Benefits’ for the latest deals. PSIA/AASI members have access to various promotional offers on outdoor gear and accessories, including such names as Atomic, Bolle, Burton, Fischer, K2, Marker, Nordica, Patagonia, Rossignol, Subaru and Thule. Publications: Members receive a subscription to The Professional Skier (TPS) and The Pro Rider (TPR) magazines, plus access to a wide range of manuals, videos, and other materials to support PSIA education programs. Western Division members receive three issues per year of “The Edge.” Personal & Professional Development: Educational Programs & Conventions: PSIA/AASI clinics and events are held throughout the country each season. These are invaluable opportunities to improve your skills as a teaching professional. They also offer the intangible benefit of meeting your fellow instructors and benefiting from those relationships. The Foundation: The PSIA/AASI Education Foundation offers various scholarships for our members. Promoting the Association and You: PSIA/AASI cooperates with supporting sponsors to promote the value of ski instruction to the public.
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REQUIREMENTS: •
Must be an advanced skier capable of skiing beginner through advanced terrain and in variable conditions
•
Must have good communication skills and be able to work weekends and holidays
•
Must have knowledge of PSIA or ISIA teaching methodology and be able to teach adults and children in both private and group settings
•
Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds Pay is commensurate with certification and experience.
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CONSISTENTLY RANKED #1 IN GUEST SERVICE BY READERS OF SKI MAGAZINE.
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Education Foundation/Soddy Fund Gets Boost from Member Input After completing a nearly five month straThe current recommendations to the tegic planning process involving input from PSIA/AASI-W Board of Directors from the over 200 members, the PSIA/AASI-W FounAdvisory Council include formalizing the dation Advisory Council is recommending organizational structure of the Foundation a new vision for the Soddy Fund/Education to include an Advisory Council and Grants Foundation. This new vision includes not Committee to decide how the money is only a new name (PSIA-W Foundation), distributed. Another organizational recombut exciting new approaches to expand the mendation is partnering with PSIA/AASI number of funding and giving opportunities. The Sodergrens: A new era for fund. National, especially around corporate These new approaches to giving and raising sponsorship. money will hopefully make supporting the PSIA-W Foundation New ideas currently on the table for new fund areas, along appealing to a wider range of members. with the Soddy Fund and Education Fund, are a Membership The overall goal is to raise more money for PSIA-W Benefit Fund and an Expedition Fund. thereby creating enhanced opportunities for members and One of the major outcomes the Board is seeking to achieve bringing renewed vigor to the organization and industry in expanding the Foundation is to better serve both a wider set in general. The vision includes meeting a fundraising of members as well as a few select members better. We hope goal of one million dollars in 7-10 years by seeking out you are as excited as we are in the new direction of the PSIA-W and expanding corporate sponsorship opportunities as Foundation. So excited, in fact, that when you get a letter in well as developing an innovative incentives program for the mail in the next month, you send us a check in support of our “new” Foundation. generous members. The PSIA-W Foundation Advisory Council has been workNext Steps: The Board will be voting on the plan in April ing with Truckee based Streamline Consulting Group to define and is seeking final member input prior to the vote. Please these new goals as well as outline implementation strategies to submit your comments by March 15 to Mitch Dion at admin@psia.org. meet them.
PSIA - Western Division - AASI 9709 Hwy. 267, Truckee, CA 96161 (530) 587-7642, Fax: (530) 587-4273 Email: admin@psia-w.org Web site: www.psia-w.org Forwarding service requested
PSIA-W/AASI-W Board of Directors and Officers 2006-2007 Officers President Executive Vice President Alpine Vice President Snowboard Vice President PSIA Representative Past President
Neil Bussiere (08) Carl Underkoffler (07) Mike Hafer (08) Ken Mattson (07) Craig Albright (08) Dave Achey (06)
Directors Craig Albright (08), Neil Bussiere (08), Heidi Ettlinger (08), Steve Evenson (09), Elianne Furtney (09), Chris Fellows (09), Mike Hafer (08), Greg Lyons (07), Ken Mattson (07), Ted Pitcher (09), Finlay Torrance (07), Carl Underkoffler (07). Nordic Chairperson - Urmas Franosch Adaptive Chairperson - Haakon Lang-Ree
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