SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY A PATHWAY FOR ALL

nowsports is a sport for all, whether Each stage of the Snow Australia Athlete it’s participating recreationally with Pathway provides an overview of athlete Sfamily and friends, or competitively preparation, programs, on and off-snow in snowsports event. With approximately 1.2 development, equipment, competition, million Australians participating in various leadership and support. It is designed to forms of skiing and snowboarding, it is one inform our community about the Pathways of Australia’s largest and most popular to High Performance, and to support our participation sports. Program Providers to deliver long-term athlete development opportunities. Whatever the motivation for participating in Snowsports, Snow Australia is committed This document supports materials available to providing a clear “Pathways to High on the Snow Australia website which is an Performance” strategy, to educate and inform important conduit for the latest information the Snowsports Community as to the stages on the Snow Australia Athlete Pathway. of athletic development I encourage anyone interested in the To assist with this important initiative, Snow snowsports athlete journey to read and Australia has developed discipline specific become familiar with this important resource. Snow Australia Pathway ‘blueprints’, informed by the Australian Institute of Sport’s (AIS) Michael Kennedy FTEM (Foundation, Talent, Elite and Mastery) Snow Australia CEO Athlete framework. The blueprint provides an evidence-based and practicable approach for supporting the ‘whole of sport’ pathway continuum and the three key outcomes of sport being:

• Active Lifestyle, • Sports Participation; • Sporting Excellence.

SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY WHAT IS WHY DO WE NEED FTEM? THE FTEM MODEL?

ports development begins early in THE ATHLETE PATHWAY IS AN life with the acquisition of movement THE SNOW AUSTRALIA skills through to lifelong engagement INCLUSIVE AND PROGRESSIVE S ATHLETE PATHWAY into senior levels. The sporting journey across ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENTAL the lifespan includes various development FRAMEWORK WHICH ALLOWS FRAMEWORK ALLOWS OUR stages from early participation, to the pre- SNOWSPORTS COMMUNITY TO: elite, and for a lucky few, high performance SNOW AUSTRALIA TO: opportunities. Each stage is unique and is an important stepping stone for those athletes Provides visibility and clarity of pathway Understand the correlation and hoping to succeed in High Performance Sport. 1 opportunities for ALL stakeholders 1 requirements of each of the stages including athletes and their parents, of athletic development within the The AIS originally developed the FTEM participation and performance pathways, framework to directly support these key Be a means to recognise and outcomes of sport participation being; 2 acknowledge key partnerships, programs Acknowledge the critical importance Active Lifestyle, Sports Participation, and and support, 2 of the acquisition and refinement Sporting Excellence. The FTEM model is a of fundamental movement skills to fully integrated, evidence-based framework 3 Provide a practical method to assist our lifelong sports participation and high representing the Foundation, Talent, Elite sporting stakeholders to construct a performance athlete development, and Mastery of the ‘whole of sport’ pathway more functional and aligned athlete and continuum. It categorises key features of sport development system, which in turn Allow all athletes to reach their optimal each stage of an athlete’s journey and directly aligns with the Snow Australia 3 performance level; provides a practical method to assist sport Strategic Plan, and athlete stakeholders to maximise and Acquire the skills to encourage lifelong 4 manage athlete development. For more 4 Develop evidence-based programs and engagement and participation within information please visit the Sports Australia strategies, including talent identification, Snowsports. website: confirmation, development and transition;

https://www.sportaus.gov.au/ais/ftem Provides a platform to easily identify 5 and support potential talent to achieve sustained High Performance success.

SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBLE NON!ELIGIBLE IMPAIRMENT IMPAIRMENT TYPES IN PARA TYPES FOR ALL ATHLETES. WHAT IS ALPINE? • Impaired Muscle Power - Athletes Athletes Examples of Non-Eligible CLASSIFICATION? with Impaired Muscle Power have a Impairments include, but are not limited to Health Condition that either reduces the following: or eliminates their ability to voluntarily contract their muscles in order to move or • Pain; to generate force. • Hearing Impairment; • Limb Deficiency - Athletes with Limb Deficiency have total or partial absence • Low muscle tone; of bones or joints as a consequence of o ensure fair competition for all, Athletes are classified by classifiers, who trauma. Paralympic sports have a system in work together in a classification panel of two • Hypermobility of joints; place which ensures that winning is or three. They are trained and certified by the T • Leg Length Difference - Athletes with Leg • Joint instability, such as unstable shoulder determined by skill, fitness, power, endurance, International or National Federation. tactical ability and mental focus, the same Length Difference have a difference in the joint, recurrent dislocation of a joint; factors that account for success in sport for length of their legs. able bodied athletes. • Impaired muscle endurance; WITHIN THESE LEVELS, THE • Hypertonia - Athletes with hypertonia This process is called classification and have an increase in muscle tension and • Impaired motor reflex functions; its purpose is to minimise the impact of FOLLOWING ASPECTS ARE a reduced ability of a muscle to stretch impairments on the activity (sport discipline). STRONGLY ADVOCATED: caused by damage to the central nervous • Impaired cardiovascular functions; system. The impact on the sport must be proved, • Impaired respiratory functions; and in each Paralympic sport, the criteria of Does the athlete have an eligible 1 • Ataxia - Athletes with Ataxia have grouping athletes by the degree of activity impairment for this sport? uncoordinated movements caused by • Impairment metabolic functions; limitation resulting from the impairment are damage to the central nervous system. named ‘Sport Classes’. Does the athlete’s eligible impairment 2 meet the minimum impairment criteria of • Tics and mannerisms, stereotypes and Through classification, it is determined which the sport? • Athetosis - Athletes with Athetosis have motor perseveration; athletes are eligible to compete in a sport continual slow involuntary movements. and how athletes are grouped together 3 Which sport class describes the athlete’s • Short Stature; and for competition. This, to a certain extent, is activity limitation most accurately? • Impaired Passive Range of Movement - similar to grouping athletes by age, gender or Athletes with Impaired Passive Range of • Intellectual Impairment weight. Movement have a restriction or a lack of passive movement in one or more joints. Classification is sport-specific because an impairment affects the ability to perform • Vision Impairment - Athletes with Vision in different sports to a different extent. As Impairment have reduced or no vision a consequence, an athlete may meet the caused by damage to the eye structure, criteria in one sport, but may not meet the optical nerves or optical pathways, or criteria in another sport. visual cortex of the brain.

SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY WHAT IS THE WHAT ARE MINIMUM IMPAIRMENT THE CLASSES? CRITERIA?

Specific criteria applied to each sport to PHYSICAL IMPAIRMENT SPORT CLASSES LW 1!9: Activity Limitation. A typical example is determine if a person’s Disability results a below knee amputation in one leg. They in sufficient limitation in their sport. This is STANDING SKIERS will use two skis during the race. called the minimal impairment criteria. This Minimal Impairment – GUIDE ONLY information is further detailed in the: Upper Limb impairment: Lower Limb impairment: World Para Alpine Skiing Classification rules. Limb loss or deficiency • Sport Class LW 5/7: Athletes in this Sport • Sport Class LW 1: This sport class is • Leg: At least through ankle amputation. Class ski with an impairment in both allocated to athletes with an impairment arms. Some athletes have amputations that strongly affects both legs, for VISION IMPAIRMENT • Arm: Residual limbs unable to hold and and others have limited muscle power example an above knee amputation of use a ski pole. or coordination problems. They will race both legs or significant muscle weakness down the slopes without ski poles. Minimal Impairment – GUIDE ONLY Loss of muscle strength in both legs. • Sport Class LW 6/8: Skiers have an The Athlete must have at least one of the • Loss of muscle power in at least one • Sport Class LW 2: Skiers have a impairment in one arm. Skiers will following Impairments: elbow, shoulder, hip, knee or ankle. significant impairment in one leg. Some compete with one ski pole only. skiers, for example, have an impaired leg • Impairment of the eye structure; Hypertonia Ataxia Athetosis from birth. You will see them ski with one Combined Upper and Lower Limb ski only. impairments: • Impairment of the optical nerve/optic • Hypertonia, ataxia or athetosis in at least pathways; one leg. • Sport Class LW 3: This sport class is for • Sport Class LW 9: Skiers in this Sport athletes who have a moderate impairment Class have an impairment that affects • Impairment of the visual cortex. Joint movement restrictions in both legs. Amputee and limb deficiency arms and legs. Some skiers in this class will ski with a prosthesis. Some LW 3 have coordination problems, such as and • Movement restriction in at least one skiers have mild coordination problems or spasticity or some loss of control over elbow, shoulder joint, hip, knee or ankle. The Athlete’s Vision Impairment must result muscle weakness in both legs, or a below one side of their body. Depending on their knee amputation in both legs. in a visual acuity of less than or equal to Leg length difference impairments, they will ski with one or two LogMAR 1.0 or a visual field restricted to less skis and one or two poles. • Sport Class LW 4: Similar to skiers in than 40 degrees diameter • Leg length difference of at least 7cm. Sport Class LW 2, LW 4 skiers have an impairment in one leg only, but with less

SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY SPORT CLASSES LW 10!12: • Sport Class B2: This sport class profile includes athletes with a higher visual SIT!SKIERS acuity than athletes competing in the B1 class, but they are unable to recognise HOW DO I GET All sit-skiers have an impairment affecting the letter “E” from a distance of 4m. their legs. They are allocated different sport Moreover, athletes with a visual field of classes depending on their sitting balance, less than 10 degrees diameter are eligible CLASSIFIED? which is very important for acceleration and for this sport class. balancing during the races. • Sport Class B3: The B3 sport class profile describes the least severe vision • Sport Class LW 10: Skiers in this Sport impairment eligible for Para alpine skiing. Class have no or minimal trunk stability, Eligible athletes either have a restricted for example due to spinal cord injuries or visual field of less than 40 degrees spina bifida. They therefore rely mainly on diameter or a low visual acuity. their arms to manoeuvre the sit-ski.

• Sport Class LW 11: Skiers have good irstly, athletes need to be seen by abilities in their upper trunk, but very a National Classification panel in limited control in their lower trunk and FAustralia. National Classification is hips, as it would be the case for skiers typically held in conjunction with Snow with lower spinal cord injuries. Australia Futures, a talent identification and training event held annually. For more • Sport Class LW 12: This sport class information please see the following: includes skiers with normal or only slightly decreased trunk function and leg Athletes with a vision impairment impairments. Skiers with leg impairments Classification is organised through in Sport Classes LW 1-4 often also fit this Paralympics Australia www.paralympic.org.au/ sport class, so that they can choose if vision-classification/ they want to ski sitting or standing in the beginning of their career. Athletes with a physical impairment

Classification is organised through Snow SPORT CLASSES B1!3: SKIERS Australia www.snow.org.au WITH VISION IMPAIRMENT International Classification is required in order to compete in all internationally Athletes ski with sighted guides sanctioned events including Continental • Sport Class B1: Skiers in this sport class Cup, World Para Alpine Skiing (WPAS), World are either blind or have very low visual Cup, World Championship and Paralympic acuity. By way of explanation, their level Games. More information on international of visual acuity is such that the athlete classification can be obtained by visiting cannot recognise the letter “E” (15x15cm in World Para Alpine or contacting Snow size) from a distance of 25cm. During the Australia Para Program Manager race they are required to wear eyeshades.

SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY he FTEM framework consists of 3 macro stages of the skill and Tperformance development of sporting UNDERSTANDING participants which are further differentiated into 10 micro stages. THE FTEM STAGES These stages and micro stages include Foundations (F1, F2 and F3); Talent (T1, T2, T3 and T4); Elite (E1 and E2); and Mastery (M).

Foundations (F1, F2 and F3) contribute to and underpin our Participation Pathway. These progressive and dedicated levels are pivotal to acquiring and refining the fundamental movement skills and early physical literacy required for athletic development.

WITHIN THESE LEVELS, THE FOLLOWING ASPECTS ARE STRONGLY ADVOCATED:

Early engagement in age and skill The Talent (T1, T2, T3 and T4); Elite (E1 and 1 appropriate introductions to snowsports, E2); and Mastery (M) span and support the pathways to High Performance. Supported The right fit of equipment, by a best-practice, inclusive and holistic 2 approach, the future talent potential of a pre-elite athlete is identified, confirmed, The importance of freeski activities developed through effective programming 3 (unorganised Free play), and competitive opportunity and transitioned to the senior elite level. To assist with mastering skills, sampling 4 across different sports and within At the pinnacle of the sport pathway, the snow sports, and regular coaching via Elite and Mastery levels, athletes enter our committed network of snowsports and perform on the world stage and schools and clubs (F2-F3). are supported through a dedicated and individualised approach including committed preparation, camps, sport science/sports medicine and quality coaching to give them the very best chance of realising their podium potential!

SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY PAGE FOUNDATION F1 FOUNDATION F2 11

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FOUNDATION F3 12

PAGE POTENTIAL IDENTIFIED T1 EMERGING T2 13

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EMERGING T3 14

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PODIUM POTENTIAL T4 15

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PODIUM READY E1 16

PAGE PODIUM READY E2 PODIUM M1 17 SNOW AUSTRALIA TALENT TO ELITE PATHWAY TO HIGH PERFORMANCE

PARA!ALPINE PODIUM SUSTAINED INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS OVER MULTIPLE HIGH ATHLETE PATHWAY PERFORMANCE CYCLES M1 PODIUM READY ACHIEVING PODIUM SUCCESS IN PEAK INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS SUCH AS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS, PARALYMPIC GAMES AND WORLD CUPS E 2

PODIUM READY ACHIEVEMENT OF AN ELITE STATUS THROUGH SENIOR NATIONAL SELECTION AND REPRESENTATION E 1

PODIUM POTENTIAL BREAKTHROUGH AND PREPARATION FOR TRANSITION THROUGH ELITE INDIVIDUAL PROGRAM PLANS, BENCHMARKING, COMPETITION T4 PREPARATION AND EXPOSURE

DEVELOPING FOUNDATION COMMITMENT AS A PRE!ELITE ATHLETE AND REFINEMENT OF HOLISTIC PARTICIPATION PATHWAYS SKILLS THROUGH EFFECTIVE, DELIBERATE PROGRAMMING T3

COMPETING IN ENJOYMENT IN ON! PARTICIPATION EVENTS SNOW RECREATIONAL EMERGING PERFORMANCE POTENTIAL IS VERIFIED THROUGH HOLISTIC ATHLETE PROFILING ACROSS THE LIFESPAN ACTIVITY ACROSS THE SUPPORTED BY INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCE PLANS AND BENCHMARKING 2 LIFESPAN T

POTENTIAL IDENTIFIED PERFORMANCE POTENTIAL IDENTIFIED THROUGH INITIAL DEMONSTRATION OF SKILLS T1

FOUNDATION REGULAR COACHING, PRACTICING AND COMPETING THROUGH CLUBS, SNOW AUSTRALIA PROGRAMS AND DWA PROGRAMS NATIONAL CLASSIFICATION OBTAINED. F3 CONTINUED ENJOYMENT IN FREESKI ACTIVITY AND COMPETING IN PARTICIPATION EVENTS ACROSS THE LIFESPAN

FOUNDATION INTRODUCTION TO SNOWSPORTS AND DWA THROUGH DEVELOPMENTALLY!APPROPRIATE PROGRAMS WITHIN SCHOOLS AND CLUBS, FREESKI AND SPORT SAMPLING F2

FOUNDATION LEARNING AND ACQUIRING THE BASIC FOUNDATIONS OF SNOWSPORTS AND DWA THROUGH DEVELOPMENTALLY! APPROPRIATE PROGRAMS THROUGH OFF!SNOW FUNDAMENTAL MOVEMENT SKILLS, FREESKI AND SNOW PLAY F1 SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY FOUNDATION LEARNING AND ACQUIRING THE BASIC FOUNDATIONS OF SNOWSPORTS AND DWA THROUGH DEVELOPMENTALLY!APPROPRIATE PROGRAMS THROUGH OFF!SNOW FUNDAMENTAL MOVEMENT SKILLS, FREESKI AND SNOW PLAY

PARTICIPANT PROGRAMS ON!SNOW SKILL OFF!SNOW SKILL No dedicated programs. Freeski and snow play DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT in Resort and snow environments. Introduction Enjoying their first snow experience. Learning or to Disabled Wintersports Australia (DWA) re-learning (i.e., after an acquired impairment) programs. Participants explore the fundamental Learning fundamental movement skills 1 basic fundamental movement skills that skills of skiing as outlined by their including dynamic balance, movement contribute to early skills on-snow (balance Snowsports School (Disabled Wintersports coordination and control, locomotive and F etc) through informal snow activities and COMPETITION object control skills through a mix of off-snow Australia (DWA) assistance if required) experiences and off-snow discovery and play activities . Emphasis on physical literacy Non-competitive and adapting key skills sets to their activities. individual impairment. Finding enjoyment through healthy lifestyle and enjoyment. in regular freeski activity, snow play and Adapting off-snow skill development to sampling other snow sports disciplines. individual impairment.

LEADERSHIP PARTICIPANT PREPARATION SUPPORT EQUIPMENT

DWA, Parents, Family and Friends. Providing Participants begin to develop fundamental skills and opportunities to experience success through DWA, Snowsport Schools, Parents, Family Own helmet and provision of equipment movement confidence as a foundation for further acquisition movement competence with the most and Friends. Providing opportunities to through DWA membership for all of on-snow skills. Make goals a daily game making it fun, skill fundamental of movement and sport-related experience success through movement adaptive equipment needs. Addition based and tangible. tasks, and positively reinforce these behaviours. competence with the most fundamental of rental or purchase of equipment for of movement and sport-related skis and boots if unable to source from tasks, and positively reinforce these DWA. Seeking professional guidance behaviours. when ensuring right fit and match of equipment to age and development.

FOUNDATION INTRODUCTION TO SNOWSPORTS AND DWA THROUGH DEVELOPMENTALLY!APPROPRIATE PROGRAMS WITHIN SCHOOLS AND CLUBS, FREESKI AND SPORT SAMPLING

PARTICIPANT PROGRAMS ON!SNOW SKILL OFF!SNOW SKILL Instructor lessons, DWA programs, race DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT privates, weekend or holiday programs. Snow Acquiring and refining their early skiing specific Australia on-snow and off-snow activities skills by participating in structured, age and including Snow Australia Para Futures. Finding enjoyment in regular freeski Emphasis on physical literacy, sport 2 developmentally-appropriate Snowsports activity and trying out and sampling specific movement exercises, flexibility, Schools, DWA, Clubs, and Snow Australia other snowsports disciplines through body awareness, coordination and control, F Pathway programs. Finding enjoyment in COMPETITION including related dynamic balance, spatial age and developmentally-appropriate extensive freeski activity, developing physical awareness, acrobatic and gymnastic skill. At this stage, competition is not a focus. programs. Adapting key skill sets to literacy, sampling and participating across and individual impairment. Sampling other sports at an introductory within other introductory sport activities. However, if participating in competition, level. Adapting off-snow skill development emphasis should be on fun and participation. to individual impairment, strengthening Effort and improvement should be recognized. key areas to improve and balance out impairment. LEADERSHIP PARTICIPANT PREPARATION SUPPORT EQUIPMENT

Snow Australia, DWA, Clubs, Coaches and Ski Understand the importance of health and fitness and how it Instructors. Snow Australia national direction. Snowsport Schools, DWA, Coaches, Own helmet and provision of equipment applies to sport and wellbeing. Introducing participants to snowsports and Schools, Parents and Friends. Provision through DWA membership for all differing disciplines and utilising an engaging, of accessible and engaging age and adaptive equipment needs. Addition participant-centered approach informed by developmentally appropriate introductory of rental or purchase of equipment for best practice skill acquisition to teaching snow sport programs. Supporting sporting skis and boots if unable to source from snowsport skills. efforts and role modeling positive DWA. Seeking professional guidance sportsmanship behaviour. Showing respect when ensuring right fit and match of to leadership personnel, instructors, equipment to age and development. coaches and officials.

11 SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY FOUNDATION REGULAR COACHING, PRACTICING AND COMPETING THROUGH CLUBS, SNOW AUSTRALIA PROGRAMS AND DWA PROGRAMS NATIONAL CLASSIFICATION OBTAINED. CONTINUED ENJOYMENT IN FREESKI ACTIVITY AND COMPETING IN PARTICIPATION EVENTS ACROSS THE LIFESPAN

PROGRAMS PARTICIPANT Snow Australia national direction with on/off-snow programs including Snow Australia Para Futures (including Further refining their skiing skills with an emphasis on holistic skill National Classification). Committed to a part-time or full- development (technical, tactical, physical and psychological) in early time Club program if available. DWA camp based member competition and practice. A focus on learning what it takes to be a weeks. Snowsports athlete rather than solely competitive results. Committed to regular coaching via Clubs and Snow Australia Pathway programs. Finding 3 enjoyment in extensive freeski activities to self-challenge and extend COMPETITION all skills, refining physical literacy, and participating in sport sampling F opportunities. Participation events at and across the life stages including Interschools and/or Multiclass and Resort events. Competing in WPAS (World Para-Alpine Skiing), DWA race week, and Interschools multiclass events.

ON!SNOW SKILL OFF!SNOW SKILL EQUIPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

All equipment must adhere Ongoing refinement of ski specific skills including technical, Continued emphasis on overall physical literacy extending to WPAS specifications for tactical, physical and psychological components and movement proficiency under variable and progressively WPAS sanctioned events. For adapting key skill sets to individual impairment. Exploring challenging conditions, sport specific movement exercises participation events, skis and more challenging aspects of skiing disciplines. Regular to promote versatility and balance, coordination and control, helmet. Seeking professional freeski activity to further refine complement of skills and neuro-muscular flexibility, body and kinaesthetic awareness. guidance when ensuring right extend repertoire, adaptability and sampling other snow Adapting off-snow skill development to individual impairment, fit and match of equipment to sports disciplines to a high level. strengthening key areas to improve and balance out age and development. impairment. Cross training in sports that are similar to snow sports, as well as participating in team sports

LEADERSHIP SUPPORT ATHLETE PREPARATION

Snow Australia, DWA, DWA, Clubs, Coaches, Guidance on utilising self-regulatory skills and strategies linked by regular self-reflection. Clubs and Coaches. Snow Schools, and Parents. Includes strong self-awareness, management and organisational skills. S.M.A.R.T (Specific Australia national direction. Supporting sporting efforts Measurable Attainable Relevant Timely) Goal setting with input from athletes and guided Coach direction for athlete and role modeling positive by coaches and parents. Goals are to be set weekly and seasonally, starting simple, development. Coach-athlete sportsmanship behaviour. then increasing difficulty. Practicing effective time management skills to balance sport, relationships are built through Showing respect to leadership school, and workload. Communicate effectively with leadership and support groups. Learn effective communication, personnel, coaches, and and practice positive self-talk, arousal/anxiety and breathing control within competitive trust, and respect and the officials. Allowing coaches to settings. Instill a strong work ethic, and reward perseverance. Implement imagery into development of an athlete’s adopt a best-practice and sessions to support skill development and aid confidence and preparation by watching autonomy and self regulation. holistic approach incorporating themselves execute the skill utilising different perspectives within their minds eye effective skill acquisition to until they achieve a positive outcome. Keep a self-reflection journal and practice self- develop athletes. regulation after training and competition and seek and experiment with solutions to fill competency gaps. Acquire Sporting SMARTS – General principles for staying adequately hydrated, good nutritional habits, sleep, recovery and travel strategies, injury prevention, early strength and conditioning principles, equipment preparation and maintenance etc.

12 SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY POTENTIAL IDENTIFIED PERFORMANCE POTENTIAL IDENTIFIED THROUGH INITIAL DEMONSTRATION OF SKILLS

PRE!ELITE ATHLETE PROGRAMS ON!SNOW SKILL OFF!SNOW SKILL Snow Australia national direction with on/off- DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT snow programs including Snow Australia Para Initial demonstration of further Futures. Committed to a part-time or full-time Club program if available as well as international High Performance potential. Club Stabilisation of fundamental skills Demonstrating talent potential through dedicated programs (US based). 1 coaches involve athletes in planning learnt during Foundation stages Talent Identification (TID) assessments including and preparation. Athlete shows (F1-F3) in training and competition. Coach’s eye that consider an athlete’s holistic skills T technical and tactical competencies COMPETITION Biomechanically sound in all weather which are informed by the required athlete profile during competition and within and snow conditions and on all terrain. and are considerate of training age and maturational training environments. International Introduction to sport specific competition with Demonstrate specific technical skills status of the askier. Cross training in compatible classification obtained. an emphasis on building a passion for competing. relevant to discipline. Potential for linking sports to extend snow sport skills. All off-snow Competing in WPAS events, DWA race week and in with national team training where activity to assist with strengthening mechanical Interschools multiclass events. applicable. Regular freeski activity. weaknesses as per individual impairment.

LEADERSHIP ATHLETE PREPARATION SUPPORT EQUIPMENT

Snow Australia, DWA, Clubs, Coaches and Holistic preparation considerate of required complement of Parents. Supporting sporting efforts and role Clubs, Coaches and Parents. Supporting All equipment must adhere to WPAS technical, tactical, physical, physiological and psychological modeling positive sportsmanship behaviour. sporting efforts and role modeling specifications for WPAS sanctioned skills. Practicing executing the full skill complement under varied Showing respect to leadership personnel, positive sportsmanship behaviour. events, including impairment specific environmental and snow conditions and all terrain. Complete and coaches and officials. Allowing coaches to Showing respect to leadership personnel, equipment (Prosthetics, AFO, Stabilisers adhere to Individual Performance Plan (IPP) to achieve short, mid adopt a best practice and holistic approach coaches and officials. Allowing coaches etc). Athlete develops equipment and long-term goals. Goals should still be primarily focused on incorporating effective skill acquisition to to adopt a best practice and holistic knowledge and maintenance, seeking process and improvement of skills. develop athletes. approach incorporating effective skill professional guidance to ensure right acquisition to develop athletes. fit and match of equipment to age and development. EMERGING PERFORMANCE POTENTIAL IS VERIFIED THROUGH HOLISTIC ATHLETE PROFILING SUPPORTED BY INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCE PLANS AND BENCHMARKING

PRE!ELITE ATHLETE PROGRAMS ON!SNOW SKILL OFF!SNOW SKILL Snow Australia national direction with on/off- DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT snow programs including Snow Australia Para Verifying their future High Performance potential Futures. Committed to a part-time or full-time Club program if available, as well as international by consistently displaying their full complement IPP driven, benchmarking. Identifies Talent confirmation strategies including programs (US based). 2 of athlete profile and competencies (technical, on-snow strengths and weaknesses, dedicated camps and competition. tactical, physical, physiological and psychological). and works to a plan designed to Adapting off-snow skill development T Other key attributes include a strong aptitude COMPETITION address needs, maximising strengths to individual impairment, strengthening for learning and refining new skills, commitment, and minimizing weaknesses. Working key areas to improve and balance out motivation, “coachability”, positive psychology, Athletes should increase range of competitions; however focus should remain on refinement of skills. towards developing skills in training impairment. self-management and self-regulation. Committed Athletes should target local, national & international and competition environments. Regular to year round International training and competition including Continental Cups, WPAS, freeski activity to further challenge skills. competition as informed by IPP’s. NorAm Cup, Potential Europa and World Cups.

LEADERSHIP ATHLETE PREPARATION SUPPORT EQUIPMENT

Snow Australia and Para-Alpine Coaches. Complete and adhere to IPP to achieve short, mid and long-term Coach direction for athlete development. Snow Australia, DWA, Para-Alpine Coaches All equipment must adhere to WPAS objectives. Explore long-term performance plans and introduce Coach-athlete relationships are built through and Parents. Supporting sporting efforts specifications for WPAS sanctioned outcome goals to motivate the athlete to acquire skills and fitness. effective communication, trust and respect. and role modeling positive sportsmanship events, including impairment specific Develop race day routines and practice with distractions present behaviour. Showing respect to leadership equipment (Prosthetics, AFO, Stabilisers to simulate the competitive experience. Effective management of personnel, coaches, and officials. Allowing etc). Athlete refines equipment training and competitive loads. Introduce relaxation techniques coaches to adopt a best-practice and knowledge and maintenance, seeking to control competitive anxiety. Positive self-talk is critical. holistic approach. professional guidance to ensure right Demonstrate the concepts including self-regulation, commitment, fit and match of equipment to age and control, and strength. Define and implement self-reflection, imagery development. techniques and coping skills.

13 SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY DEVELOPING COMMITMENT AS A PRE!ELITE ATHLETE AND REFINEMENT OF HOLISTIC SKILLS THROUGH EFFECTIVE, DELIBERATE PROGRAMMING

PROGRAMS PRE!ELITE ATHLETE Snow Australia national direction with on/off-snow programs including Snow Australia Para Futures. Dedicated to day to day practice and progressive competition to refine Committed to a part-time or full-time Club program if snow-sport skills and execution. Aware of their own training requirements available, as well as international programs (US based). integrating effectively technical, tactical, physical, physiological and psychological components. Continue to refine discipline specific skills, and become more involved with their own development in order to be prepared 3 and competitive within key competitions. Ability to execute consistent COMPETITION TARGETS and accurate performance skills for relevant discipline in all weather, T snow conditions and all terrains. Good balance of sport and vocational Appropriate level and number of starts ranging from commitments and a strong sport-life balance and lifestyle activities national to international. Athletes should be challenged supporting psychological and physical wellbeing. above their ability on occasion. WPAS Events, Continental Cups (Europa Cup, Noram) and World Cups.

ON!SNOW SKILL OFF!SNOW SKILL EQUIPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

All equipment should adhere to Maximising self-regulatory skills in training and competition Dedicated strength and conditioning programs focussing on WPAS specifications for WPAS environments by identifying their own on-snow strengths and speed, agility, power, coordination, control and kinaesthetic sanctioned events, including weaknesses, problem solving and seeking and experimenting elements. Ongoing monitoring through an Athlete Management impairment specific equipment with workable solutions. Works to a plan/strategy designed System. Optimising physical, physiological, psychological, (Prosthetics, AFO, Stabilisers to address key needs maximising their own strengths and tactical, technical and wellbeing qualities. Progression of etc). Athlete equipment minimizing and attending to their weaknesses. Regular athlete education initiatives including building their brand, knowledge and maintenance is freeski activity to further self-challenge and enjoy time out sponsorship, negotiating potential high performance stressors, expanded, seeking professional from formal training and competition. anti-doping, financial management etc. Utilise Injury guidance to ensure right fit prevention strategies. and match of equipment to ability and disciplines. LEADERSHIP SUPPORT ATHLETE PREPARATION

Snow Australia and Para- Snow Australia, Para-Alpine Complete and adhere to athlete IPP, benchmarked against international standards to Alpine Coaches. The coach- Coaches and Parents. Supporting achieve short, mid and long-term goals. Training hours will increase and become more athlete relationship is built on sporting efforts and role modeling intensive on and off-snow. Work to identify the ideal performance state and implement a mutual trust and respect. positive sportsmanship. Showing strategies to achieve this state consistently. Effective management of training and The coach-athlete relationship respect to leadership personnel, competitive loads. Work towards mastery of all aspects of preparing mentally for develops into a collaborative coaches, and officials. Allowing competition, by refining their use of positive self-talk and imagery, and after events partnership with the athlete coaches to adopt a best-practice, habitual self-reflection and problem solving. Demonstrate the concepts consistently of “self-coaching” and sharing holistic and ecological approach strong self-regulation, commitment, control, and strength and coping skills. feedback with coaches. incorporating effective skill acquisition to develop athletes and promoting habitual self- regulation by promoting athlete autonomy and problem solving through less prescription. May qualify for NIN (National Institute Network) support (e.g. NSWIS / VIS). 14 SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY PODIUM POTENTIAL BREAKTHROUGH AND PREPARATION FOR TRANSITION THROUGH ELITE INDIVIDUAL PROGRAM PLANS, BENCHMARKING, COMPETITION PREPARATION AND EXPOSURE

PROGRAMS PRE!ELITE ATHLETE Snow Australia national direction with on/off-snow programs including NIN - NSWIS / VIS (where applicable).

Achieves a significant breakthrough through consistent performances within international benchmark events (BME’s) such as World Championships. Individually and independently motivated to train. Identified as talented. COMPETITION 4 Athletes utilises expertise of integrated sport science/sport medicine to enhance performance and sustain training schedule. Appropriate level and number of starts ranging from national T to international. Athletes should be challenged above their ability on occasion. WPAS Events, Continental Cups, World Cups and Paralympic Games.

ON!SNOW SKILL OFF!SNOW SKILL EQUIPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

All equipment must adhere Works to a plan/strategy designed to address key needs Utilise individual recovery, injury prevention and injury to WPAS specifications for maximising their own strengths and minimising and management strategies and techniques. Utilise individual WPAS sanctioned events, attending to their weaknesses. Maximising self-regulation recovery, injury prevention and injury management techniques. including impairment specific skills in training and competition, by identifying own Comply with SMASS (Sport Medicine and Athlete Support equipment (Prosthetics, on-snow strengths and weaknesses and seeking own Services) and log all training through Athlete Management AFO, Stabilisers etc). Athlete solutions. Extension of technical, tactical, physical, System (AMS). proficient in equipment physiological and psychological competencies through knowledge and maintenance, progressively challenging and varied snow conditions and seeking professional guidance terrains. Regular freeski activity to further self-challenge to ensure right fit and match and enjoy time out from formal training and competition. of equipment to age and development.

LEADERSHIP SUPPORT ATHLETE PREPARATION

Snow Australia and Para- Snow Australia, Para-Alpine Complete and adhere to IPP, benchmarked against international standards to achieve Alpine Coaches. Coach-athlete Coaches and Parents. short, mid and long-term goals. Athlete utilise expertise of sport science/sport medicine relationships are built through Supporting sporting efforts to enhance performance and sustain training schedule. Effective management of effective communication, trust and role modeling positive training and competitive loads. Ensure progressive competitive opportunity that and respect. Develops into a sportsmanship behaviour. replicates conditions of key international benchmark events. Work towards mastery of collaborative partnership with Showing respect to leadership all aspects of preparing mentally for competition, by refining their use of positive self- athlete ‘self-coaching’ and personnel, coaches and talk and imagery. Demonstrate self-regulation, commitment, control and strength. sharing feedback with coaches officials. Allowing coaches to and driving individual case adopt a best-practice, holistic management. and ecological approach to athlete development.

15 SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY PODIUM READY ACHIEVEMENT OF AN ELITE STATUS THROUGH SENIOR NATIONAL SELECTION AND REPRESENTATION

PROGRAMS ELITE ATHLETE Snow Australia national direction with on/off-snow programs. Snow Australia Para-Alpine High Performance Program with support from NIN such as NSWIS or VIS (where applicable). Achievement of a senior elite status athlete through selection and representation at key international benchmark events including World 1 Championships and Winter Paralympics. COMPETITION TARGETS Paralympic Winter Games, World Championship and World E Cups.

ON!SNOW SKILL OFF!SNOW SKILL EQUIPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

All equipment must adhere to Ongoing practice of high skill development, athletes have Utilise an individualised program incorporating diligent WPAS specifications for WPAS an ability to read and adapt to terrain, environmental recovery, maintenance/regeneration, injury prevention sanctioned events, including conditions, fellow competitors, making the right tactical exercises/methods and strength and conditioning. Utilise impairment specific equipment decision (i.e. state of race) and executing a full repertoire innovative skill acquisition practices in the gym to challenge (Prosthetics, AFO, Stabilisers of technical skills effectively and consistently despite and extend physical literacy, dynamic balance, speed and etc). Mastery of equipment fatigue, pressure, varied conditions. High technical, agility. Comply to a multi-dimensional, multi-periodisation plan knowledge and maintenance tactical adaptability, and repeatability. Regular freeski supported by sport science/sport medicine staff coordinated is achieved, while seeking activity to further self-challenge and enjoy time out from and monitored through an AMS. Practice mental imagery professional / coach guidance formal training and competition. before training and competition. Cross training in compatible to ensure right fit and match activities and sports. of equipment when required.

LEADERSHIP SUPPORT ATHLETE PREPARATION

Snow Australia national Snow Australia, Snow Australia Contributes to and adheres to Elite IPP to effectively achieve short, mid and long-term direction and Para-Alpine Discipline Directors, Head goals. Athletes utilises expertise of integrated sport science/sport medicine providers Coaches. The coach-athlete Coaches, NIN such as NSWIS or to enhance physical conditioning, readiness and performance. Utilises advanced relationship is built on mutual VIS (where applicable). organisational/management and self-regulatory skills to inform and refine competitive trust and respect. The coach- preparation, scheduling, and travel etc. Effective usage of psychological performance athlete relationship develops strategies. Maintains effective sport-life balance, through performance and lifestyle into a collaborative partnership factors such as recovery, nutrition, hydration, sleep, utilisation of support & service with the athlete “self-coaching” providers etc. Learning to deal effectively with media, public and other potential High and autonomy and sharing Performance stressors. Adherence to anti-doping regulations. feedback with coaches.

16 SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY PODIUM READY ACHIEVING PODIUM SUCCESS IN PEAK INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS SUCH AS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS, OLYMPIC PARALYMPIC GAMES AND WORLD CUPS

PROGRAMS ON!SNOW SKILL OFF!SNOW SKILL ELITE DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT ATHLETE Snow Australia national direction with on/ off-snow programs. Snow Australia Para- Alpine High Performance Program with Ongoing practice of high skill development, Utilise an individualised program incorporating diligent athletes have an ability to read and adapt recovery, maintenance/regeneration, injury prevention A podium performance at support from NIN such as NSWIS or VIS to terrain, environmental conditions, fellow exercises/methods and strength and conditioning. Utilise a World Cup event, World (where applicable). 2 competitors, making the right tactical decision (i.e. innovative skill acquisition practices in the gym to Championship or Paralympic COMPETITION state of race) and executing a full repertoire of challenge and extend physical literacy, dynamic balance, E Winter Games. technical skills effectively and consistently despite speed and agility. Comply to a multi-dimensional, multi- Paralympic Winter Games, World fatigue, pressure, varied conditions. High technical, periodisation plan supported by sport science and sport Championships, World Cup. tactical adaptability, and repeatability. Regular medicine staff coordinated and monitored through an AMS. freeski activity to further self-challenge and enjoy Practice mental imagery before training and competition. time out from formal training and competition. Cross training in compatible activities and sports.

SUPPORT LEADERSHIP ATHLETE PREPARATION Snow Australia, Snow Australia Discipline Directors, Head Coaches, NIN such as NSWIS or VIS (where Snow AUS national direction applicable). Contributes to and adheres to Elite IPP to effectively achieve short, mid and long-term and Para-Alpine Coaches. The goals. Athletes utilises expertise of integrated sport science/sport medicine providers coach-athlete relationship to enhance physical conditioning, readiness and performance. Utilises advanced is built on mutual trust and organisational/management and self-regulatory skills to inform and refine competitive respect. The coach-athlete EQUIPMENT preparation, scheduling, travel etc. Effective usage of psychological performance strategies. relationship develops into a All equipment must adhere to WPAS specifications for WPAS Maintains effective sport-life balance, through performance and lifestyle factors such as collaborative partnership with events, including impairment specific equipment (Prosthetics, recovery, nutrition, hydration, sleep, utilisation of support & service providers etc. Learning the athlete “self-coaching” AFO, Stabilisers etc). Mastery of equipment knowledge and to deal effectively with media, public and other potential High Performance stressors. and autonomy and sharing maintenance is achieved, while seeking professional / coach Adherence to anti-doping regulations. feedback with coaches. guidance to ensure right fit and match of equipment. PODIUM SUSTAINED INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS OVER MULTIPLE HIGH PERFORMANCE CYCLES

PROGRAMS ON!SNOW SKILL OFF!SNOW SKILL ELITE DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT ATHLETE Snow AUS national direction with on/off- snow programs. Snow AUS Para-Alpine High Performance Program with support from Ongoing practice of high skill development, athletes Utilise an individualised program incorporating diligent NIN such as NSWIS or VIS (where applicable). have an ability to read and adapt to terrain, recovery, maintenance/regeneration, injury prevention 1 Has reached a Mastery status environmental conditions, fellow competitors, exercises/methods and strength and conditioning. Utilise M in the sport through achieving making the right tactical decision (i.e. state of innovative skill acquisition practices in the gym to challenge multiple podium success over COMPETITION race) and executing a full repertoire of technical and extend physical literacy, dynamic balance, speed and multiple high performance skills effectively and consistently despite fatigue, agility. Comply to a multi-dimensional, multi-periodisation cycles (i.e. a typical 8 year Paralympic Winter Games, World pressure, varied conditions. High technical, tactical plan supported by sport science and sport medicine staff period based on two high Championships, World Cup. adaptability, and repeatability. Regular freeride coordinated and monitored through an AMS. Practice mental performance cycles of four activity to further self-challenge and enjoy time out imagery before training and competition. Cross training in years). from formal training and competition. compatible activities and sports.

SUPPORT LEADERSHIP ATHLETE PREPARATION Snow Australia, Snow Australia Discipline Directors, Head Coaches, NIN such as NSWIS or VIS (where Snow AUS national direction applicable). Contributes to and adheres to Elite IPP to effectively achieve short, mid and long-term and Para-Alpine Coaches. The goals. Athletes utilises expertise of integrated sport science/sport medicine providers to coach-athlete relationship enhance physical conditioning, readiness and performance. Utilises advanced organisational/ is built on mutual trust and management and self-regulatory skills to inform and refine competitive preparation, respect. The coach-athlete EQUIPMENT scheduling, travel etc. Effective usage of psychological performance strategies. Maintains relationship develops into a effective sport-life balance, through performance and lifestyle factors such as recovery, collaborative partnership with All equipment must adhere to WPAS specifications for nutrition, hydration, sleep, utilisation of support & service providers etc. Learning to deal the athlete “self-coaching” WPAS sanctioned events, including impairment specific effectively with media, public and other potential High Performance stressors. Adherence to autonomy and ownership and equipment (Prosthetics, AFO, Stabilisers etc). Mastery of anti-doping regulations. sharing feedback with coaches. equipment knowledge and maintenance is achieved.

17 FIRST DEVELOP A STRONG IT’S A PARTNERSHIP! BASE OF FUNDAMENTAL ALIGNED PATHWAY MOVEMENT SKILLS! PROGRAMS

o be a great skier or snowboarder, he role of Snow Australia is to you first need to have a strong base be innovative and progressive in Tof athleticism including fundamental Tdeveloping systems and partnerships movement skills. to maximise athlete development and progression through the pathway. Having Development should first focus on an effective operational pathway blueprint foundational movement skills such as is key to effective pathway management locomotive, balance, and spatial awareness and partnership of the various program skills. Possessing a well-rounded repertoire of providers ensuring visibility, clarity and fundamental movements skills such as these, accountability of athlete support and is a key component to building a successful contributing to a sustainable talent pipeline platform for long-term athlete development, and elite performance into the future. Key maximising your talent potential, versatility recognised stakeholders supporting this and adaptability and minimising risk of injury. vision and strategy include state institute providers (NSWIS, VIS), ski resorts, clubs, These core skills are developed within on- regional academies, schools and commercial snow and off-snow environments and may operators. include sampling and cross training in other sports related to the snow sports, free play Snow Australia works closely with a number on practicing and participating in on-snow of Affiliated Pathway Programs which support skills assessments, as well as joining in Snow athlete development for Alpine, Freestyle, Australia dry-land program opportunities. Snowboard and Cross Country disciplines. Outside of these programs, Snow Australia Having a strong base of fundamental provides an accreditation process for other movement skills on and off snow, are key pathway providers to ensure quality and to enjoying a lifelong engagement within alignment of the Snow Australia Athlete the sport, becoming a better skier or Pathway. snowboarder, or for podium success whether it is for the local event, or for a lucky few who For more information, please visit: aspire to be the world’s best. https://www.snow.org.au

SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY WHAT BENEFITS DO I GET AS WHAT BENEFITS DO I GET AS AN INDIVIDUAL MEMBER OF AN ASSOCIATE MEMBER OF WHO IS DWA? DWA? DWA?

• Get access to our adaptive equipment • If you are a guide and are skiing or (subject to availability) snowboarding with a DWA member, you will get access to a lift pass and car entry • Our volunteer guides if their need to participate with an escort is noted on their membership card. • Concessional rates on lift tickets and private adaptive lessons (please check at • You can book accommodation at Finsko’s your preferred resort on prices). or the DWA facility at Howmans Gap. WA was established in 1978 and is a registered charity, accredited • Access to Camps • Access to a range of training DNational Sporting Organisation and opportunities through DWA and pathways Incorporated Association. The organisation • Access to Race Programs and talent to APSI courses. has assisted thousands of individuals scouting for potential Paralympic team with disabilities to participate in winter members. sports annually and continues to do so. CONTACTS The organisation’s members range from • Access to Finsko’s lodge, located in recreational skiers to Australia’s Winter the grounds of the Jindabyne Sport For membership or volunteer enquiries please Paralympians. Through building the capability and Recreation Centre, New South contact: and capacity of a National Sport System, Wales. Finsko’s Lodge is fully accessible. including accountability at the national level, Bookings can be made through the [email protected] DWA provide members with technically sound Jindabyne Sport and Recreation Centre. [email protected] sports programs, policies and services. For general enquiries please contact: • Access to the universal-design, [email protected] WHERE DOES DWA OPERATE? accessible accommodation facility at Howman’s Gap Alpine Centre at Falls By phone: 1300 265 730 Where does DWA operate? DWA operate in Creek. It is available to all members as Falls Creek, Mt Buller, Mt Hotham, Perisher a communal accommodation, allowing Website: https://www.disabledwintersport. and Thredbo. DWA also has universal access access to the snow without having com.au/home/ accommodation facilities at Jindabyne, to compromise on their comfort. For New South Wales (Finsko’s) and Falls Creek, bookings, please contact Howmans Gap Victoria (Howmans Gap). on (03) 5758 3228 or howmansgap@ymca. org.au.

• Some businesses at the various resorts may offer additional concessions to members.

SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY ENJOY AND PLAY ON THE SNOW ! FREE SKI AND FREE RIDE

rograms are important in supporting and developing athletes. However, Pmany participants do not realise the importance of free-ski or free-ride activity, unorganised on-snow activities. A high investment in such free play activities, is a common characteristic of our finest athletes. Not only is it fun and a great way to spend time with family and friends, it is a vital component of being innovative and creative, developing skills on a range of terrain, all types of snow conditions, and in all types of weather. These skills can by advantageous in any snowsports competition.

So, when the on-snow programs are done for the day, grab your mates, friends and family, or head out by yourself to enjoy the beauty the resorts have to offer.

SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY WHAT IS GUIDING? REQUIRED SKIING ABILITY

• Skiers who are blind or with a visual • B3 Guides should come from an alpine ski A PLACE FOR impairment are guided through the course racing background. Desired performance by sighted guides using verbal signals to standard: indicate the course to follow. EVERYONE! MORE » Women: Sub 120 FIS points or equivalent • The Guide skis ahead of the athlete » Men: Sub 120 FIS points or equivalent) wearing a distinctly coloured bib in order THAN ONE WAY TO to help VI athletes with some sight (B2,B3) • B2 Guides preferably come from an negotiate the course. alpine ski racing background. Desired performance standard: BE INVOLVED. • There are rules that VI pairings must follow. These include, a maximum distance » Women: Sub 140 FIS points or equivalent apart, all gates must be passed through » Men: Sub 140 FIS points or equivalent) correctly, guide and athlete must be from the same country. Guides will learn the • B1 Guides need not to have a racing rules as they progress through the sport background, however they should be COACHING VOLUNTEERING and are matched appropriately with a VI advanced skiers. It is however, imperative athlete. they be trusted by the athlete and t all levels of Snowsports, Snow Providing athletes with the best possible preferably loquacious while skiing. Australia provides participants and race or sport competition experience relies • Ski lengths are an adaption of the FIS Aathletes with a safe environment to on the support of volunteers. Volunteering rules and are dependent on discipline, enjoy the sport, develop skills, be competitive, in snowsports is a fun and rewarding impairment and gender. have success and above all – have fun doing opportunity to be involved. From grass-roots it! Snow Australia understands the significant participation events, to club races or elite role that instructors and coaches have in FIS races, the sport needs the support of enabling athletes to develop and stay in volunteers to assist in the successful delivery snowsports. of events.

Great coaches contribute to the strong There are many different volunteer roles that foundations of all our athletes. Instructing need to be filled on a race or event day and at Resorts is a great way to start your whether it’s standing on the side of a course, journey as a coach in the sport and develop starting athletes at the top of the hill, or a passion for coaching. Snow Australia has helping an organising committee with bib an established coaching pathway in place to collections, the sport couldn’t exist without support coach development and educational the dedication of volunteers. There are plenty opportunities. of ways to assist, so get in contact with the state discipline committee or club to find out To find out more, please visit www.snow.org.au more.

SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY CONTACT ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS PHOTO CREDITS

Rebecca Clark Snow Australia would like to acknowledge and thank the following key Snow Australia would like to acknowledge and thank the following organisations National Alpine and Pathway contributors to the development of the Snow Australia Athlete Snowsports who assisted with supplying photos: Coordinator Pathway. Ph: 03 9696 2344 • International Paralympic • Olympic Winter Institute of Australia [email protected] Mick Branch, Rebecca Clark, Annie Geiger, Christian Geiger, Shawn Fleming, Ben Committee (OWIA) www.snow.org.au Wordsworth, Andrew Logan and Juanita Weissensteiner – NSW Office of Sport. • Disabled Wintersport Australia • Perisher • Paralympics Australia • Northern Interschools Committee

SNOW AUSTRALIA PARA!ALPINE ATHLETE PATHWAY www.snow.org.au