U16/U18

BC ALPINE TECK OPEN SERIES

The BC Alpine Teck Open series (U16/U18) – for athletes aged 14-17 – is designed to give young racers an opportunity to develop their racing and skiing skills and progress according to their ability. This Program builds on the skills learnt at the U14 level and allows athletes to progress from the Learning to train phase to the learning to race phase.

PHILOSOPHY

The focus of U16/U18 remains on the FUNdamentals of ski training, skill development and progressive introduction to competition.  All BC Alpine programs emphasize growth, development and maturation, and the appropriate phases of alpine ski racing: Gliding Start, Skier Essentials, Learn to Train, Learn to Race, Train to Race, Train to Win, Skiing For Life.

All programs in the province are designed and supported by Alpine Canada Athlete Integration Model 3.0

At this level, athletes gradually progress from the Learn to Train stage of the AIM 3.0 , into the Train to Race stage, and on to either the  Train to win stage or the skier for life stages. Learning experiences are enhanced with extensive use of free skiing and specifically designed gate environments. The more formalized racing and team travel that are introduced at this level also enhance the learning of critical life skills such as time management, working as a member of a team, proper nutrition, individual responsibility and accountability.

This program seeks to develop skiing and life skills in a fun, encouraging, safe environment. The program is designed and delivered by professional coaches following the guidelines of the Alpine Canada Canadian Ski Coach (CSC).

TRAINING

Dryland and physical training opportunities are offered prior to the ski season, through summer and fall training camps. Pre-season on-snow training camps are also offered, with recent groups travelling to Sun Peaks in late November and sometimes Apex Mountain in early December.  These training camps are offered at extra cost, and are subject to the level of athlete interest.

Registration in the program includes on-snow training which begins in December (subject to the opening of Mt. Washington), including training camps for all U14 race athletes over the winter holidays, and regular training offered on Saturdays and Sundays. Training is also available on most Fridays and on some Mondays, and can align with school professional development days. Families typically seek special school permission if an athlete is planning to attend Friday or Monday training days.

RACING

Athletes compete in U16/U18 Teck events within the Coast Zone and, the Provincial wide Open Teck Series which culminates with the Western Canadian Championships.   

TRAVELLING

Team travel is introduced at this level, offering athletes an opportunity to travel and stay with their team and coaches when attending a race away from our home mountain.  Athletes can also choose to travel with their families.