ISSUE 1 PNSIA-EF SNOWSPORT NWINSTRUCTOR summmer /fall 2005 summmer /fall 2005 summmer /fall 2005 summmer /fall 2005 summmer /fall 2005

Inspiring lifelong passion for the mountain experience www.psia-nw.org Event Line Up FFallall SeminarSeminar 20052005 FFallall SeminarSeminar 20052005 Lunch will not be served at any of Be sure to mark these dates your the venues, so please plan to brown Sign Up Now calendar and you’ll be rewarded with bag your lunch or get a quick bite at some lively topics and a great kick- nearby eateries. off to your season. We are already preparing the menu This is an indoor event that begins at Be sure to submit your application of events for the new season. 8:00 a.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m. before the October 11th deadline for for the full calendar of events in the Seattle & Portland, and October next newsletter and on the website. This year we will be offering topics 24th for the Spokane deadline. The first event coming our way will for all disciplines in Movement be the Fall Seminars. Sign up now! Analysis, Teaching Skills and We encourage you to take advantage Children’s training. of the and Nordic Oct. 22nd at Mt. Hood presentations. These are open to all Community College in Gresham We are currently in contact with a disciplines. Be sure to identify on variety of potential presenters. Keep your application form whether you Oct. 23rd at Shoreline Commu- your eye on the website for more are Alpine, Nordic or Snowboard nity College in Seattle/Shoreline updates. specific.

Nov. 5th at Gonzaga Participants will receive a 1-year Be sure to note the time your topic is University in Spokane education credit for attending this offered. Some are AM or PM only. full day seminar. Topics offered are dependent on sign-ups and may be cancelled or modified. We TOPICS will do everything to make sure the sessions go. Advanced Skills in Teaching (am/pm) Adaptive Session II: ADD / ADHD - Mainstreaming A Differentiated Instruction Approach - Presented by with typically developing students (pm)(Seattle, Mt Linda Cowan Hood only) Open to Instructors with at least five (5) seasons of An introduction into behavior management and teaching experience, or Level II and III certifications. inclusion tools

Differentiated Instruction is an approach to teaching and Biomechanics For Efficient Movements (am/ learning where students are given multiple options for pm) taking in information and making sense of concepts. This workshop is an interactive body awareness and Differentiated instruction is founded on the belief that movement seminar. Dress in clothing that you would instructional approaches should vary and be adapted in wear to a stretching session and bring your boots. relation to individual and diverse student groups. ‘DI’ You will learn the elements of proper posture, and how helps instructors create multiple pathways so that when the body is balanced the basic movements of students of different abilities, interests, or learning needs skiing become very effective with very little effort or equally maximize their learning and individual success. strain on the back or knees. Expect a stretching, moving, guided tour of skiing movements with lots of individual This method asks instructors to do more than one thing feedback, body awareness and Q&A. at a time in a logical, progressive format. Instructors would need to come to this class with a fairly good Boot design and Fitting (am/pm) working knowledge and handle on the skills concepts Gain a greater understanding of boot design and which and the ability to attach appropriate drills/tasks to build product may provide you with the best fit for your feet. foundational skills. Learn the tips from the top fitters for setting up your boots and feet for maximum performance this winter. Adaptive Session I: Autism / ADD / ADHD an Learn ways to recognize and assist your guests in fit and overview (am) (Seattle, Mt Hood only) stance needs. An introduction to causes, behavior and related issues

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 2 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org Event Line Up Children’s Topic: Advanced Children’s Education: you. Learning to ride does NOT have to be about (ACE) The ACE program is structured to give you suffering thru those first couple of days. Find out how insight into how children develop and learn. In addition (and why) snowboard progressions have changed so to the cognitive, affective, and physical development of quickly over the past couple years. We will also check children, this two day event focuses on group out how to address some of the common challenges of management skills, lesson planning, and skill teaching so your students will learn quicker and you development. Material is appropriate to all disciplines: both will enjoy the experience much more. (This is nordic, alpine, and snowboard. NOT just for the beginning instructor.) Too busy to give up a whole winter weekend for ACE? This new format may be just right for you. Take the Intro to Freeride (am/pm) indoor session at fall seminar and then just one day on Understanding risks, benefits, and progressions in the snow to complete your ACE program. The indoor Terrain Park. Whether you are riding or skiing, this session at Fall Seminar is an all day class – do not sign clinic will help you prepare yourself and your students up for a pm class. On snow dates are: for more exciting, safe and successful adventures in the 12/4/05–Timberline, 12/10/05–Crystal Mtn and Terrain Park. Schweitzer, 12/18/05 –The Summit. Prerequisites: participants must be at least a cert Level 1. Movement Analysis I Alpine (pm only) Participants must complete the workbook prior to the This workshop will teach you how to recognize indoor session. The workbook will be mailed to you movement patterns and the cause/effect relationship to when you register for the course. Required Text: PSIA- performance in skiing. Children’s Instruction Handbook - $14.50. Book may be purchased from the PSIA-NW office (phone) (206) Movement Analysis II Alpine (am only) 244-8541, fax (206) 241-2885, (email) office@psia- With a focus on upper level skiing, this workshop will nw.org 8.8% sales tax for WA residents and $3.00 improve your observation skills in off- and bumps. shipping. Cost for ACE: $100 Movement Analysis - Nordic Track (am only) Covering both Skate and Classic techniques, this session Core Strength for Better Performance (am/pm) is designed to show both how to watch and analyze the Start preparing for next ski season now! A strong core is movements as well as how to compare them to similar key to good skiing. Learn techniques to develop your movements in alpine and XCD. personal core strength. Focus on movements specific to good skiing and riding, while exploring the anatomy and Movement Analysis - Nordic XCD Downhill, aka biomechanics of the snowsport athlete. This class will Telemark (pm only) involve exercise, so please dress appropriately. Movement Analysis for both Telemark movement Creative Skill Building (am/pm) patterns and how they relate to alpine and track-based Join the ACE staff for a fun, active skill-building session. Nordic movements. Open to all disciplines. Use a variety of soccer and crossover activities to explore skill building, teaching and learning styles and Seniors Workshop (am/pm) creative games for skill development. Sessions will be Teaching Skill Development geared toward teaching kids. Wear good shoes and Establishing the learning partnership with your guests clothing that allows you to move freely. and determining their goals Determining their needs and shaping their goals Equipment Tuning and Maintenance (am/pm) Practice in building an effective lesson plan Learn what it takes to get the most out of your equipment. Whether you chose to tune your own or take 7 Habits of Highly Effective Ski Instructors, Coaches, it to a shop, learn what it takes to do it and what to look TD’s, Exam Candidates (am/pm) for in a great tune. This class will explore different ways to look at Goal Setting, Lesson Planning, Time Management, Grow the Sport (pm only) Interpersonal Communications Skills, and what Our industry is focusing on how to build lifelong motivates you and your athletes/students or trainers participants, are you? Discover how to create lessons that make learning to ride fun and easy for your students and

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 3 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org Event Line Up This will all be tied into the Core Concepts Manual Teaching 101-201 (am only) especially as it relates to Professional Development. Tailored to pre-Level I and II instructors of all Snowboard Equipment Clinic- Bring your gear! (am disciplines. Focused toward improving your teaching only) Clinic will address snowboard design concepts and presentation skills. and why these aspects are important to us as instructors. We will take an in depth look at Stance/ Teaching 201-301 (pm only) Reference Alignments and how important they are as a This session is offered to pre-Level II and III solid starting point for all riding. Make sure to bring instructors of all disciplines. How to take your your board, boots, and bindings so we can customize teaching into the coaching mode and add variety for your gear to best fit you and your riding goals. This those guests on their way the higher levels. clinic will help you get the necessary understanding of equipment and how it is designed to work so you can make it perform easier for you and your students. Fall Seminar Application Submission deadline: October 11th (Seattle & Portland) and October 24th (Spokane)

Name______PSIA-NW #______Last First Address______Street/box City State Zip Daytime Phone#______Ski School______

E-mail Address______

AM Clinic Topic______ACE Topic Check Here! Cost is $100. On snow dates are: PM Clinic Topic______(Please check your choice) †12/4/05 – Timberline Alternate Topic AM______†12/10/05 – Crystal Mtn PM______†12/10/05 – Schweitzer †12/18/05 – The Summit Alpine Nordic Snowboard Adaptive

Fee : $50 application available Oct 22nd-Gresham on-line Oct 23rd-Seattle www.psia-nw.org Nov 5th-Spokane

Visa/MC #______Exp Date______

Signature______

Please fill out and mail with checks payable to: PSIA-NW, 11206 Des Moines Memorial Drive, Suite 106, Seattle, WA, 98168. Fax Visa/MC to PSIA-NW (206) 241-2885. Deadline for each seminar is 14 days prior. There is a $10 late fee for registrations received after that date. No cancellations unless injured and unable to participate in an indoor session.

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 4 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org From the Communication VP Just like riding a bike How many times have we heard that phrase? Perhaps you’ve even used it yourself. Usually it comes up when people are returning to snowsports after some time off. College, jobs, kids, money, exile to Iowa. It’s reassuring to know that they’re not starting completely from scratch and there’s hope they can pick up where they left off.

Funny, that’s what it may seem like to us as snowsport instructors after this last season in the Northwest. While most of us escaped exile to Iowa, just having mountains here didn’t guarantee any type of consistent snowfall. So, we find ourselves picking back up where we left off as individuals, an industry and an organization. PHOTO BY: DAVID SWORD We’re not starting from scratch. As an organization, we left off with a solid start on plans to address the feedback you gave us in the 2003-2004 survey. Amy Zahm, our first Education Program Director, was able to lay some solid groundwork for that position even as events were cancelled and event revenue needed to support her position disappeared. As an industry, resorts in the Northwest had just come off a record, or near record year for customer visits. Long range master plans had finally made it through years of regulatory process and were inching toward realization. As individuals, our drive to constantly improve and have more fun while doing it is pretty well ingrained. New equip- ment design has us all convinced that possibilities are just about limitless.

So, where are we going from here? As an industry, I suspect our customers are just as eager to get back to their favorite activities and resorts as we are. Offers to honor season passes at affiliated resorts or for discounts locally should bolster “As an customer loyalty. As an organization, we’ve reaffirmed our commitment to our Education programs and we are in the process of hiring a new Education Program organization, we’ve Director. See Ed Younglove’s President’s Report in this issue for more information on reaffirmed our this and our response to last season. Check out The McLaughlin Report for an update commitments to on our renewed efforts on the training side. Board member Mary Germeau reports on our Education the successful Symposium Raffle / Auction to raise money for our Scholarship program. programs...” This issue also marks some changes to the newsletter after a pause. (We cancelled the Spring ’05 issue and have combined the normal Summer and Fall issues in response to last season’s financial constraints.) The new “Event Line-up” puts event listings front & center. As you can see, preparations for Fall Seminar are well under way. For your convenience, you can also sign up on the website. We are debuting a new article - the Training Director’s Column. This is a chance for TD’s to share their training ideas. Our thanks to Board Member (& TD) Mike Peters for the idea and for the first column to get the ball rolling.

The two Turning Point articles from Team members Nelson Wingard and RJ Nichoalds address what it takes to get back on your bike and ride. “Just like riding a bike” can imply that we’re satisfied with what we’ve done. More than just picking up where they left off, their striving to go beyond a set-back, set goals with renewed energy and work toward them with purpose gives us an example both as individuals and as an organization to move forward.

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 5 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org NW SNOWSPORT INSTRUCTOR

NORTHWEST FEATURES SnowSport Instructor Professional Ski Instructors of 12 A Road Well Worth America - Northwest Division Traveling PNSIA Education Foundation by RJ Nichoalds 11206 DesMoines Mem. Dr. #106 Seattle, WA 98168-1741

13 Goals vs Dreams Phone (206) 244-8541 by Nelson Wingard FAX (206) 241-2885 E-Mail: [email protected] 15 “Hey mom...” Website: www.psia-nw.org by Amy Ohran, N8 Edgell, and Larry Editor Jodi Taggart Smith

16 Untapped Talent Send all submissions to: Jodi Taggart Revealed c/o PSIA-NW 11206 Des Moines Mem. Dr. #106 by Mary Germeau SKIER: GREG DIXON, MT. BACHELOR Seattle, WA 98168-1741 Phone (206) 244-8541 (MSG) 20 If I Can Do It [email protected] by Michael Patmas Submission Deadlines CONTENTS Issue Deadline Early Winter Oct. 1 2 Event Line Up Winter Jan. 1 Fall Seminar 2005 Spring March 10

Guide for Contributors 9 McLaughlin Report The Northwest SnowSport Instructor by Lane McLaughlin is published five times a year. This newsletter will accept articles from 7 anyone willing to contribute. The edi- 7 President’s Report torial staff reserves the right to edit by Ed Younglove all submissions. Submit items as attach- ments via email or contact the editor 11 for other options. Articles should in- TD Column clude the author’s name and a quick by Mike Peters bio. Photos can be submitted via email or as prints. Please contact the editor 14 Book/Video Review for any additional information. by Ed Kane All published material becomes the PHOTO BY MARTY ANDREWS, property of PSIA-NW. Articles are ac- 18 SCHWEITZER cepted for publication on the condi- Senior Tour tion that they may be released for pub- by Ed Kane lication in all PSIA National and Divi- sional publications. Material published in this newsletter is the responsibility of the author and is not necessarily endorsed by PSIA-NW.

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 6 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org President’s Report

Officers of the Board Ed Younglove ------President Carol Christofero ------Executive VP Last Season Jack Burns ------Administrative VP An important look at tried through email and other John EisenhauerCommunications VP media to keep you informed, but Molly Fitch ------Education VP how the 04/05 season the situation was so fluid it seemed Lane McLaughlin ------Technical VP Chris Kastner ------Certification VP played out to change from day to day. We just Diana Suzuki ------Financial VP didn’t have the means to keep you BY ED YOUNGLOVE abreast of everything as it Ken Hand ------Mmbr School VP PSIA-NW PRESIDENT John Weston ------PSIA Rep happened. We tried to keep you up Staff Whew, am I glad last season is to date with the website and we TBA------Ed Program Director behind us. With rather few hope to improve our membership Barb Darrow ------Office Manager exceptions, the weather devastated email list for future use. Now that most of last season for northwest the dust has settled (it certainly Newsletter Ad Rates resorts and snowsports schools. wasn’t snow) we can see more Classified Ads: Classifieds are line type clearly what transpired. ads and will be run in a single section What did it mean for us, PSIA-NW, with different headers, i.e. Employment, a dues based membership Equipment for Sale, Get Connected, etc. organization? We hung on as long as feasible Classified ads may vary in size and rates before substantially cutting down will be reflective of the number of words Our organization has two on events and training. The in the ad. principal income sources, toughest decisions were about membership dues and event fees. laying off staff. Most of you Rates: Our major expenses are already know this story from earlier 20 Words or less $10 administrative costs (e.g. staff communications, but starting in 20-40 Words $20 salaries, rent, etc) and event costs January we laid off one of our full- 40+ Words $1 per word (e.g. clinic leader compensation). time staff in the office and reduced Display Ads: Displays will be available Because we held fewer events, another’s hours by one half. At the in a variety of sizes and will be boxed or event fees were down, but so were same time we reduced our new otherwise set off from the surrounding event costs. The overall effect of Education Program Director text. There will be a layout fee for dis- the reduced volume, however, was a position from full time to half time. play ads that are not submitted in final substantially reduced amount of At the end of February we further form. net event income. The other major reduced the Ed Program Director factor was our fixed expenses like to one-quarter time and we Rates: our monthly office rent and eventually had to lay her off the Size Rate Layout fee administrative staff salaries. Last end of March. We considered but 2x3 $50 $10 decided against further staff cut 4x3 $100 $20 season we told you how PSIA-NW 7x5 $150 $40 has the lowest membership dues of backs. We felt it was important that 7x9 $200 $50 any division in the nation. A members have the ability to get A 10% discount is available for anyone consequence of this is that our whatever information and running the same ad in consecutive mul- dues income is insufficient to cover assistance we could give through tiple issues. our major fixed expenses. That’s a the office and we particularly Please make check payable to: problem when we don’t have event wanted to be able to continue to PSIA-NW income to supplement the dues provide services regarding the 11206 Des Moines Memorial Drive income. events we were able to hold (or Suite 106 hoped to hold) and also to service Seattle, WA 98168 Your Board of Directors and those areas in the division which Cover: Steve Hendrickson Officers worked together to go were not as affected by the weather. with group at Timberline lean, without trying to get mean to Membership services never get us through the season. We had to make some tough choices. We CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 7 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org President’s Report continued CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 truth, I think we offered ample despite the limited preparation opportunity for people to maintain suffered in my opinion. All the opportunities. their educational credits, including staff were incredibly understanding some new creative events such as regarding these decisions. They Amy Zahm will not be will not the Spring Fling. Most people who deserve our appreciation for their be back next season as our needed to get credits, were able to. loyalty. If you have any contact Education Program Coordinator. If we were to waive this fee, we with Cheryl, Becky or Amy, the When we were forced to lay Amy would have to make up this loss of staff affected by the layoffs, please off she had to concentrate on her revenue (the educational event fee tell them how much we value their massage therapy business. While I or alternative delinquency fee) loyalty and hard work. The net am sorry we will be losing Amy’s somewhere else. Should the rest of effect of all this was that we still services, we are all happy to see her the membership who were able to had to expend a substantial amount business do so well. Despite the keep their credits current pay for of our reserve funds, but I guess lack of events, Amy was able to those who didn’t? Should we dig that is what they were for. leave us with a well organized deeper into our already depleted blueprint for the position and for reserves, jeopardizing the quality of Some members have expressed division events. We all agree this future services and our fiscal the feeling that we shouldn’t have will prove invaluable in the future. health? The board considered this to pay dues for this upcoming On behalf of the division, I would issue and decided against amnesty season because of the limited like to thank Amy for all her hard and its fiscal consequences. I opportunity to ski/ride or to work work and for her perseverance in believe this to have been a tough last season. Part of the problem is the face of the adverse year. She but reasonable and fiscally that, as pointed out earlier, many of served us well as our first ever staff responsible decision. Just one of our expenses go on regardless of Education Program Director. many last season. the amount of snow. Last season we had a lease obligation to pay As I write this, we are in the While we offered many program rent on our office space and we had process of screening and events, they were a moving target employment compensation interviewing candidates for the all year. We moved Divisional obligations to employees and position. Once again, we were Academy to Canada in a last ditch without them no one would have blessed with a pool of well effort to save the event. I believe been in the office to answer your qualified applicants. I am excited those who attended had a great questions or to do the work of the that we will be able to maintain the time at Sun Peaks and were glad we division, including holding events excellent quality of personnel in did. For awhile, we had considered where there was snow, etc. Even this position. We hope to hire a moving Symposium out of division. more to the point, for this new Education Program Director We eventually decided to hold it at upcoming season (which is what this summer so he/she can start Mt. Bachelor. It was fairly well these dues are for) we need the before fall when so much of the attended and the skiing was dues income this summer to pay season planning takes place. Check awesome. Because we couldn’t hold for the expenses of the upcoming the website for current some of our on snow events, we season. There is no reason to information. Check out the next created the Spring Fling indoor believe that we won’t have a normal newsletter for a profile of the new training. It was such a success, season during which we will Director. I continue to believe that members indicated they hoped we provide the “normal” high quality this position will allow us to take will consider holding it as a regular services you expect and are entitled the quality of our already great event. (What’s that about necessity to. events to a new level and to being the mother of invention?) We hopefully increase both our managed to hold DCL and TD Some members apparently feel membership base and our current training, mostly early season. We that we should have waived the member participation. were able to hold the Mt. Bachelor educational delinquency (waiver) exam for those hardy soles who fee because of the more limited I hope you all have a great worked hard to prepare for exams opportunity to attend events. In summer and that we are skiing early and long next season. SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 8 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org The McLaughlin Report Strong Tech Sector Helps Market Rebound!

A roadmap to this the needs and expectations of their help address your feedback and seasons Tech customer in the enjoyment of essentially raise the standard for their programs downhill and nordic snowsports. own participation. BY LANE MCLAUGHLIN Last season’s Tech training program Development of PSIA-NW TECH VP started strong with effort to address teaching curriculum feedback from the membership The mission states pretty clearly So, that’s my prediction for 2006, a survey and its measurement of what that we’re here to help you with your healthy and vibrant Tech sector leads we’re doing well and not so well with teaching skills but it is also evident a charge and turns a slumping market regards to our divisional mission that the majority of our curriculum into a bullish run and big gains for statement. It’s the desire of the Tech and clinic activities focus on skiing the year. But before you run out to staff to answer the call and move and riding skills. To me that’s not your stock broker and gobble up a forward on the following objectives: bunch of options on high flying surprising in that it’s much easier to internet companies, you better hear Provide have a clinic session about skiing and me out because I’m actually talking riding be experiential, experimental, about our snowsports community membership value and downright epic because partici- and the role I see the Tech Team, What was clear to me in the surveys pants get to do it, can measure their Divisional Clinic Leaders (DCLs), was that a member’s evaluation of progress, and leave with new goals. and Training Directors (TDs) playing membership value and clinic value in helping us rebound from a rough seemed directly tied to the quality of However, I don’t know that we’ve 2005. experience they had with DCLs. come up with a similar paradigm on Members either raved about experi- the teaching side – we have plenty of I don’t know if I’ve heard anybody ences with clinic leaders who could information about teaching and talk about skiing in the last 8 months really deliver an assigned topic in a learning theories, best practices, without prefacing whatever they say fun and memorable way and how the progression development, meeting with a reference to how lousy last price to access these talented folk is a humanistic needs, and all the season was. In our land of prodi- steal, or members had critique that ingredients of great teaching but gious precip’, Northwesterners just spoke to just the opposite. perhaps not an experiential format don’t know how to live on the for people to experiment with the starvation diet of snow we were fed Since your value of membership tools and get an understanding of last year. Last season has left us and participation so tightly hinges on their own abilities and a roadmap for weak and hungry and hung-over. your evaluation of our staff, and that improvement. Most of our teaching But just when everybody is ready to our people are essentially the on teaching comes through modeling sell short, I’ll go with the contrarians product, it is our mission to develop rather than practicing, and some of and buy long. I believe we’re going a unified staff that is motivated to the learning obstacles come through to have a rebound season, hopefully grow personally and professionally in fear and the lack of risk-taking. Your in snow but more predictably in the process of delivering you a Tech Team and a PSIA National participation, leadership, and consistent, quality, and inspiring Task Force are trying to fill this gap productivity in our Technical product. The staff realizes that and bring you a better balance in program. being a clinician is not a status curriculum, products, clinics, and symbol but rather an assignment and activities to train teaching skills. opportunity to meet more of you Educational information PSIA-NW Mission and help with the progress our Statement: community is able to make within linked to certification Provide high quality educational the industry. They have come up standards, and visa versa. resources and well defined standards with their own training objectives to As the mission statement indicates, to aid our members in improving the organization exists to provide their teaching skills to better satisfy CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 9 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org The McLaughlin Report continued CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 members with educational products make sure your education leads you committed and have excluded many and opportunities and a set of toward meeting well defined stan- other areas of hard work improving defined standards (i.e., certification) dards and that the pursuit of curriculum, event quality, communi- to guide their development. Since achieving standards is meaningful cations, and the overall membership your Tech Team, DCLs, and TDs and educational to you. To tighten experience. create and present to you these the link between these two programs, educational components, it’s defi- your Tech staff spent their training Come sign up and enjoy group nitely our goal that the learning and time last year improving how we use therapy to blast away the blues from the feedback you get along the way is the PSIA National Standards as a a well-intended but short-lived consistent with and connectable to tool to develop goals, assess perfor- season. This season will include the certification standards that mance, and make feedback more tryouts for Alpine and Snowboard measure your professional progress. meaningful to you. As an example DCL staffs, ACE staff, and Alpine The fact that your TD or clinician of progress, the Alpine Exam Tech Team – it’s a season where the may not be an examiner should not scorecards are being modified to Tech sector is going to be pushing be an obstacle to your training better convey how we measure your hard to earn their role as your toward and meeting national stan- strengths and weaknesses in terms of educational and certification leaders. dards. skills rather than tasks. You get the final say on how we’re doing, so check your calendar, plug The worst-case scenario for us is to Jump back in into your community, and provide us hear of examples when members So, if you’re stuck in a general feedback on where to go next and perceive the information and malaise from ‘Black Season’, we want we’ll team up to enjoy a rebound experiences between the Education you to step away from the ledge and season. and Certification events as discon- jump back into the game. I’ve only nected and not complementing one touched on some of the highlights Timberline training snow, rain or another. It’s your Tech staff’s goal to where your Tech crew is most shine! Nov. 19th and 20th. Up- dates on line, check TD News.

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 10 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org TD Column Clean Up Messy Movements

A creative indoor Procedures: activity to explore 1. Divide staff into small groups inefficient movement, 2. Each group picks a ‘messy movement’ (examples below) and gives it a observation, funny name. 3. On their papers, complete the sentences: description, analysis, Where in the turn might the messy movement be observed? and exercise The effect of (messy movement name) ______is ______. development 4. Create a simple exercise to correct the messy movement. BY MIKE PETERS 5. Each group presents their exercise to rest of staff.

One of the challenges for Now, after the laughs and rewards for the cleverest names, there will Training Directors and School undoubtedly be a fair length of time before those on-snow clinics or Directors is to plan relevant pre- lessons. All these great exercises need to be saved and made available for season dry land training sessions. later use. So the subsequently (very important) procedures follow. Although your staff is probably excited to get together and learn Hang the papers created from the dry land in the instructor room the ‘latest and greatest’, off-snow (hopefully you have one). Instructors now have readily available resources sessions need to be fun and for their lessons. Attach blank sticky notes to the papers. Instructors add motivating while providing content their comments and/or improvements to each as they have a chance to try that enhances their lessons and the exercises. On-snow clinics can now review and revise the original skiing skills. exercises. Post the revisions and on it goes!

Dry land clinics can provide Not only have you created a successful ‘bag of tricks’, these can also be opportunities to develop exercises subjects for those evening tech-talks and are great resources for your new that can be retained and built on hires. Keep all the materials and you have next season’s dry land kick off. through out the season. The benefits of this approach are The final step is to compile your own list of messy movements. Have consistency of instructional fun. techniques and a baseline source of information. This process also Messy Movement Examples: supplements your school’s weak center of mass lack of flexion/extension progression by providing valid lower legs not parallel little or no cuff pressure connections between steps. body leaning into the hill lack of leg steering Additionally, instructors who no release of edges stiff inside leg actively participate in the formation of exercises used in the school Now here’s a quiz. Can you match these messy movements (from the 49° develop a sense of ownership and North staff) to their inefficient pseudonyms? pride. For you objective aficionados the Storkin’ Wimpin’ lesson plan is as follows: Jelly Belly Rigid Roger Materials- tape, large pieces of Rigid Roger’s twin Skooter Skiing paper, felt pens Hangers Fuzzies Task- Create simple exercises to A-Framin’ Perpendicularity correct inefficient movements Objective- improve skills of Training directors are welcome to submit training or clinic ideas for the observation, description, analysis, column. Please send to the PSIA office ([email protected]). and exercise development SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 11 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org Turning Point A Road Well Worth Traveling

BY RJ NICHOALDS was embarrassing. I stormed out of Wiggi Creek in Bend, as well as the PSIA-NW TECH TEAM there mad as He#% and drove like a skies of Alaska Airlines. maniac back to Seattle swearing off It was winter 1988, and I just came the PSIA for good. As I crested the During my clinic with DI, he asked off a season living in Sun Valley top of Stevens Pass, I seriously be- me how long I have been a Full Cert?? where I spent most of my time on a gin to doubt whether I would ever I fumbled and said ….”uh….uh….I pair of 215 Super G’s. On the teach again. I just wanted to go ski- just registered again this year so I occasional day I wanted to make a ing. could come to Whistler”. I guess this medium radius turn, I broke out my was my true turning point, where I Race Room K-2, 812’s, in a 208 with Next winter rolled around and ski realized I might have something to a 26.5 Sticker on them. We skied two school got started up again. Fortu- offer. I thought I had better get back speeds over there: “On” and “Off”. nately, I succumbed to the peer pres- in the exam process and get busy. Hey, I was in Sun Valley. Speed con- sure and got back involved. Just about Later that Spring I signed up for my trol was not an option. that time Roger Taggart was getting Associate exam and headed to Bend, involved in the exam process too and . Believe it or not, I passed, That spring, my TD signed my exam with some relatively positive feedback form and I headed off to Mission in the areas where I failed miserably Ridge to take my Associate Exam. I Fortunately, I before. have been teaching since 1982 and was skiing strong….this should be succumbed to the Now that I have made it through easy, right?? Well, I came to learn peer pressure and two Level III Exams, One DCL try- something different. got back involved. out, and two Tech Team Tryouts, I have picked up a few good lessons When I met up with my exam along the way. First, if you are going group, I was the only one that was make advances in life, you need to not part of the Wenatchee Valley was leading the charge in our ski put yourself in a place to be judged. Community College program. For school. We started doing clinics that Second, if you are going to put your- starters, it was difficult being the only included movement analysis, teach- self in a place to be judged, you bet- outsider in the group. Second, they ing and some pretty serious techni- ter be ready for people to offer you started on a technical discussion that cal discussions. After a while, I looked feedback. Third, take whatever feed- was way over my . back at the comments on my exam back that is given to you, and pro- results and realized they were right cess it before you respond in a de- My examining core included, Bud on. fensive manner. You may not always Davis, Gordy Ball, Sarah Richardson, like the feedback, but I am sure there and even John Mohan joined for a It was now about two years past my is something worth considering. session. When things got going we experience at Mission Ridge, and started talking about Exam Figures: Symposium was at Whistler. (For the Involvement with the PSIA has running gates, Uphill Christies, Symposium selection committee, WE done great things for me in my life. Linked Hockey Stops etc… I had no NEED TO DO THAT AGAIN!!!) My success on the slopes has trans- idea what these people were talking Enough with my editorial! Since we ferred to success in my personal and about. All I ever read was the ATM. were headed to Whistler, I decided business life. This is a great organi- Exam Figures were not part of that to attend this event. I had two great zation where I have received a great book. clinics. One with a French Canadian deal of benefits over the years. The named Martin, and another with the tough part, is finding ways to give Come Sunday, I somehow managed legendary “DI”. Dennis Ireland was enough back. I encourage all of you to pass my Teaching & Skiing, but a DCL at the time, and you can still to get involved and do the same. was so far away from my Technical it find him haunting the grounds of

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 12 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org Turning Point Goals vs Dreams

BY NELSON WINGARD From Sean Bold—Get to the freshie Conversely, being selected I would PSIA-NW TECH TEAM (new outside ski) earlier by starting have new doors and opportunities to earlier The difference between a goal and a grow and develop while adding ben- From Mr. T—Suppleness dream is that dreams don’t have dead- efit to the membership of PSIA/ From Chad & a SB—Change edges lines. My goal was to make the PSIA AASI. It definitely didn’t mean that my only when moving with the board National Alpine Team by the time I learning was complete (I’m no Yogi, (ouch) turned 33. Stupid as it may sound, that Yoda.) Since making the team, this has From Bob Barnes—Don’t let being was the time frame I gave myself. That been clearly marked by new learnings a Pro stop you from having a really was the plan, go to Snowbird in April, and misconceptions. good time try out and then either keep develop- From Giant’s Ridge, MN—3 de- From PJ—Make all snow look like ing as a Professional Ski Instructor on grees is damn cold, but a nice day good snow the National Alpine Team or join up there. From RT—Ski racing is just good ski- with the Air Force and learn to fly jets From Killington, VT—We (NW) ing around sticks (32 is max age to sign up for the Re- don’t have hard snow. EVER. From Tad—A quiet torso is different serves). I say was the plan because it From Karen Harjo—I still don’t un- than a static body was at the tryout that the plan changed. derstand Counter. From John E—Listen to the sound From Jason—Stay on the gas (keep of the turn The tryout was a turning point in my the outside leg long in the GS turn) From DL—A limitless ability to life; however it wasn’t the selection that From KH and NM—Duration, In- entertain & the tip is way, way up defined the event, but rather the se- tensity, Rate, & Timing are key there lection process. Five days of skiing and From the Ed. Advisory Council— From Amy Z—Know your students working with some of the greatest It is all about the membership From Calvin—Take time to get to minds and athletes this nation has to From Copper Mt—You can’t get to know your students offer provided insight into my skills PIA from HR in 1hr and make your From Ben Jackson—Just get inside and talents as a ski professional. Dur- flight the turn and decide from there ing the tryout, I felt comfortable with Also from Copper—It’s all about you, From Chris T—You are better, but my knowledge and ability to convey/ the member you still have a whole lot to learn teach at that level and it had signifi- From Chris Thompson—You still cant effects on great skiers. I now had have a lot to learn During the tryout, I was considering to recognize all the little changes and the question, “What does it mean; to gains in knowledge and skills that I had So, the turning point came when I re- be accepted on the national team or to achieved over the years. If I might, I alized that even though the goal that I not be chosen?” Does it mean I am a would like to throw out a few… set was to make the team in 2004, re- skiing icon and have nothing left to From Jim Stevens in Mammoth— gardless of the outcome, I would still learn or conversely I suck and should Both shins on both boot cuffs and want to pursue the goal of making the quit. Sounds like a stupid thought, but tune matters team in 2008. To realize my dream in the pressure of the situation, that’s From David Tewell—Tip the ski be- now, I need to continue to learn and how I felt. Finally, I realized that if not fore it changes directions set short term goals that will continue selected, it certainly didn’t mean that I From Gav—Control pressure, don’t personal development. sucked and had start shopping for a try and create it sport for little, fat guys. It simply meant From Rach—Flex the spine forward If I had not been selected, I would that my knowledge and abilities didn’t and lateral in your short turns have continued as a Snowsport In- fit with this group at this time and I From Leneh—Compassion is the key structor in the Northwest. It is what I should go back to Crystal Mountain to teaching do and what I love, and to some de- and keep learning. To quit would be to From Chris—A ski can do that? gree, what I am. I hope to do this Full devalue prior learning’s. I could never From Karin H—Understanding of Time for the rest of my life. do that. Counter (sorta) PS. Floyd Conrade. No, to answer your question, but I did get engaged!

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 13 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org Book/DVD/Video Reviews The Latest and Greatest BY ED KANE

Newly available from the PSIA are 3 new pocket sized guides. These are available through the office or directly from the PSIA. They are: Visual Cues to Ideal vs Real Children’s Skiing and ($12.50 + postage); Visual Cues to Effective and Ineffective Skiing ($5.50 + postage); and Stepping Stones Pocket Guide ($9.50 + postage). Each of these is printed on plasticized paper or is encased in heat sealed plastic so that they can easily be carried in any pocket in any weather. The largest of these is 3½ x 5½ inches in size and are constructed so that they can be easily accessed even during a lesson while riding on the chair. Visual Cues to Stepping Stones Visual Cues to Ideal vs Effective and Pocket Guide Real Children’s Skiing Ineffective Skiing The Stepping Stones concept was and Snowboarding This is the expanded second introduced in the last Alpine This fold-out formatted booklet is edition of the earlier heat sealed Technical Manual from the PSIA. cleverly arranged to contain skiing plastic pocket guide. This version This guide has been summarized in movements on one side and has been enhanced with new a one page fold-out format. When snowboarding movements on the material and has been updated to completely folded it measures other side. The page by page include the latest guidance from the about 2 ½ by 3 ½ inches. It is format is a description of the ideal National Team. The guide is riveted folded into a cleaver Velcro and/or real movements on one side in the upper corner so that the snapped cover. The contents are of the fold out page and pictures pages can be rotated to review the quite complete and include: the depicting the description on the material. One side contains the Stepping Stones to Parallel Turns; other. Each is divided into the effective cues and the other the and the Beyond Parallel Stepping fundamental movements of Alpine: ineffective cues. At the top of each Stones. In addition there is quite a Balance/Stance; Edging; Rotary; page is a description of the cue bit of useful information which Pressure Control; and Directional; accompanied with a picture that includes: guidelines on Learning and of Snowboard: Reference illustrates the words. Beneath this Styles; an overview of Key Move- Alignment; Pivot; Tilt; Twist; and statement is a list of visual charac- ments; the Elements of a Turn; Pressure Distribution. For each teristics that indicate either effective Skills Concept/Movement Patterns; movement there is a Definition, or ineffective movements. Each of some hints on skiing Beyond Goal, a list of Ideal Cues, a list of the fundamental movements is Parallel; a check list of things that Tips to enhance this performance, contained on one page. These are very useful to consider before a list of Real Cues, and a list of include: Balance and Stance; each lesson; and “Your Responsi- potential reasons for the exhibited Edging Movements; Rotary Move- bility Code”. This handy little guide performance. The words in combi- ments; Pressure Control Move- would be especially helpful to nation with the pictures provide a ments; and Directional Movements. instructors with limited experience good fundamental package from This handy field guide should and should provide a valuable aid which to start movement prove quite useful to any experi- for those respon- analysis for each student. enced instructor or trainer. sible for instructor Needless to say, this guide training. will not cover every observa- tion but provides an excel- lent starting point. It should be especially useful for instructors who have been teaching for a few years and for trainers/clinicians.

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 14 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org Freestyle Accreditation “Hey mom can I go to the park and slide some rails with Jimmy?”

Freestyle hockey stops have to do with senior jibber) liked the repair shop( accreditation at grinding a box or rail? Well, almost de-tuning his edges), the binding nothing!! tech (tighten those bad boys up), Mt Bachelor and the deck of the pipe( on his BY AMY OHRAN, N8 EDGELL AND bum). Greg patented the “surface LARRY SMITH That crisp edge set we worked so long to achieve is now a menace on mute off the cat-track”, easily done The Scene the rail, but the body alignment is in teles. Nick, our youngest most On March 8th and 9th the first very similar. Flattening the ski is elastic member, threw some circles PSIA-NW Alpine Freestyle how you slide the rail. One around the rest of us. Not that we Accreditation was held in the parks breakthrough of the event was Beth can’t spin switch 7’s over the biggest and pipe on Mt. Bachelor. The Ramsey (snowboard/office princess table tops on the hill. education/accreditation program is on skis) throwing down an entire designed to educate instructors on rail in style. Either that, or Jason The Reviews the safety and performance aspects throwing down a 25’ box rail on his From a management standpoint, of freestyle riding and coaching as chin, chest and one knee, also in the concepts in the accreditation well as to assess and validate their style. provide user friendly models for current level of understanding and assessing riders, developing skill and skill. The Style encouraging responsible terrain Jodi and Tara couldn’t get enough park usage. As continues The Cast of rolling from deck to deck in the to grow and add momentum to our Led by Lane McLaughlin, the super pipe. Chris impressed us with industry, we have a responsibility to group was a vast blend of his “spanning the decades variety,” educate ourselves and our students. snowsport professionals; a director dishing out spicy moves from old All of us at Mt. Bachelor will and assistant director, a snowboard and new school. Amy loved remember the two days of the event school manager (on skis), an everything over 20’, with a special as two of the most memorable days accounting manager/snowboard fondness for the knuckle. spent on a pair of skis. coach (on skis), an event Unnatural Nate (snowboard coordinator, a tele clinician and manager on skis) was master of several Mt. B frontline staff. The rotation in any direction. Larry (our age range was 22-56, all with the common goal of getting JIB- NASTIC! Oh, and also to become skilled in freestyle concepts and terrain park usage. The Playground Our time was spent evenly between the halfpipe, the kid’s park, the intermediate park, the full size , and natural terrain features. The rails seemed to have a magnetic quality, drawing the group into spontaneous rail sessions. What do check turns and

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 15 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org Symposium 2005 at Mt. Bachelor Untapped Talent Revealed

A play by play of the of the evening neared. Who knew in their very cool glasses this sum- Symposium Auction that Lane McLaughlin could have a mer. These two pair of glasses were second career as a ski salesman until donated by board member Wayne he hawked a pair of Salomon Pilot Nagai. He also donated two more BY MARY GERMEAU, BOD Skis with bindings to Gary Terusaki? pair of glasses to the raffle. The skis were generously donated by It has been said that when the Kelly Jett, a rep from the Salomon P.J. Jones did the auctioneer honors “Nick” is away, the mice will play. Ski Company. This is the third year for a great children’s ski basket In this case, our very talented and in a row that Salomon has donated donated by Ronne and Sharon amusing regular host for the raffle/ skis and bindings to our fundraiser. Linnane, directors of Ski Klasses Ski auction, Nick McDonald was away Ed Younglove is our PSIA-NW School at Stevens Pass. The backpack in Alaska and some relatively president, but also a budding filled with children’s gear was unknown talent filled in for him salesman as he kept Rob Croston purchased by young Jordan Petram during the auction portion of our bidding higher on a green fees who did all the bidding, including annual fundraiser for the PSIA-NW and carts for four at Fairwood Golf raising his own bid. I hope that he is Scholarship Fund. More on these and Country Club in Renton. This is enjoying the items. Last, but not talented newcomers a little later on. the second year that Takashi least, Rob Croston, member of the Tsukamaki has been able to facilitate BOD, led the bidding on a two-hour As is traditional, many members of this donation. We have yet to hear ski lesson with Chris Kastner. This the PSIA-NW Board, ski school the scores from this match, but I am included two lift tickets at Crystal directors and other PSIA-NW sure that fun will be had by all of Mountain. Rob came into his own members generously donated items Rob’s friends in the foursome. and the auctioning of this item could to the raffle and auction which was have gone on all night. Finally, held Saturday night at the Sympo- One of the newer members of our Chris’s services were purchased by sium dinner in Bend Oregon. Many Tech Team made a name for himself David Sword and his wife Claire. I members had enthusiastically as he auctioned off an Estate know that they have plans to have a purchased numbers of raffle tickets Planning Package donated by Ed great time with Chris. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday so Younglove’s law firm. Rick Lyon that they would be eligible for a demonstrated great salesmanship, At the close of the banquet, our chance to win items such as sun- creativity and a gift for moving the fundraiser had netted over $2400.00 glasses from Rick Lyon, Sally bid up as he sold the package to for the PSIA-NW Scholarship Fund. Brawley and Wayne Nagai, retro ski Debra Brown. Debra seemed pleased This money is available for Scholar- outfits fresh from Ed Kane’s storage to be able to up date her will and ships for all PSIA-NW members. In closet, boot dryers from Rob health directives as we all should, order to apply for a scholarship, a Croston, a pashmina shawl from myself included, but I did not have member can download the two-page Molly Fitch, retro skis from John the winning bid. application from the website. This Weston, scarves from Chris Saario includes a form to be filled out by and Pam Humble, Amtrak Compan- Linda Cowan and Marty O’Conner the candidate’s ski school director ion Tickets from John Eisenhauer, a were a comedy team who not only and another form to be filled out by “ski things” basket from Kay modeled, but aggressively sold a the candidate, him/herself. These Stoneberg and the gang at Anthony matched pair of sunglasses (each need to be sent to Barb in the office Lakes, a spotlight from Mark with four interchangeable lenses) to at least one month before the class, Schinman, a quilt from John Mr. and Mrs. T. (Thompson, for clinic or event the member would Winterscheid, ski stuff from Karen those who question my short hand) like to attend. Money will be granted Moldstad and green fees from David We all know that Linda is short and on a need and merit basis. The Sword. Marty is tall, but who knew that they scholarship is for tuition only. Lifts, were also funny and ready for open travel and lodging must be paid by The excitement and anticipation mike night at the comedy club. I the member. began to build as the auction portion know that Chris and Judy are styling

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 16 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org 2004/2005 Pass Lists Congratulations to the following......

Level I Alpine Poor Jarad Mt. Baker McDowell Jared 49° North Ruuhela Matt Mt. Bachelor McKelvey Morgan Mt. Ashland Last First School Sparrow Ben Ski Schl Medler Kelly Mt. Hood Mdws Albin Stephanie 49° North Stanaway Tate Mt. Hood Mdws Minella Sarah Mt. Bachelor Anderson Curtis Mt. Hood Mdws Swerdlow Sam Hoodoo Ski Schl Misplon Andrew Hoodoo Andrews Martin Schweitzer Tapia David Mt. Bachelor Olivera Joy Mt. Bachelor Ausman Greg Hoodoo Ski Schl Towry Scott Mt. Spokane Peck Jesse 49 ° North Bowe Robin Mission Ridge VanNess Chris Mt Ashland Pendergast Matthew Silver Mtn Brewer Chad Mt. Bachelor Westman Julie Timberline Pendergast Gavin Silver Mtn Brewster David 49° North Wilkins Jill Mt. Hood Mdws Petty Heather Mt. HoodMdws Chatburn Ron 49° North Wolfe Robert Mt. Hood Mdws Poe Chris Mt. Bachelor Clarke Jamie Wong Debi Silver Mountain Porter Chris Mt. Hood Mdws Couch Courtney Mt. Spokane Primmer Serena Silver Mountain Crawford Kelsey Mt. Baker Level II Alpine Roberts Nicholas Mt. Ashland Danner Bryce Hoodoo Ski Schl Chapman Steve Mt. Bachelor Schoonover Justin Mt. Bachelor Divis Annette 49° North Clarke Jaime Anthony Lakes Tift Sean Mission Ridge Dodge Jonathan 49° North Cooke Paul Ski Master Treanor Mandy Anthony Lakes Duncan Chris Mt. Hood Mdws Heffron Patrick Timberline Unger Anthony Mt. Ashland Eifert Jeffrey Mission Ridge Meredith Meg Mt. Hood Mdws Wallace John Mt. Bachelor Evans Scott Erin Silver Mountain Miller Andrew Mt. Ashland Wallace John Mt. Bachelor Gallagher Janette Mt. Hood Mdws Mosier Jeff Anthony lakes Walton Courtney Mt. Bachelor Gerlach Craig Mt. Bachelor Peterson Jessica EdmndsShorelineWatts Jason Mt. Hood Mdws Girolamo Robert Mt. Bachelor Poe Ryan Wolff Charlie Mt. Hood Mdws Graafstra Erik Mission Ridge Porter Lara Timberline Youngsma Darren Mt. Hood Mdws Green Eric Timberline Taylor Perry Mt. Baker Grutzner Susanne Schweitzer Thykeson Jessica Schweitzer Level II Snowboard Haflett Katherine 49° North Yearsley Sheylan Mt. Hood Mdws Burnell Daniel Mt. Bachelor Heuett Richard Steves Pass Burrell Neal Mt. Bachelor Heuett Tim Chief Kitsap Level III Alpine Busack Travis Mt. Bachelor Hidden Jared Bodovinitz Steve Crystal Mtn Johnson Shane Mt. Bachelor Hoffman Dennis Silver Mtn. Grove Andrew Ski Masters Johnston Andrew Mt. Bachelor Hughes Linda Mt. Hood Mdws Hartzell Ted Mt. Hood Mdws Wilmes Richard Mt. Bachelor Hughes Joshua 49° North Katz Daniel Ski Bluewood Hunt Jessica 49° North Matthiesen Jimmy Lyon Level I Track Jones Danny 49° North May John Mt. HoodMdws Last First School Kaczmarek Greg 49° North Gaddness John Spokane Parks Leblanc Ernest Silver Mtn. Level I Snowboard and Rec Leo Greg Mt. Hood Mdws Speer Anna Methow Valley Lestitian Jeff Mt Baker Last First School Lindell Sarah Mission Ridge Bassie Erin Mt. Hood Mdws Level I XCD Lucas Emily 49° North Bigelow Deborah Mt. Ashland Last First School Manix John Mt. Hood Mdws Campbell Evan Mt. Ashland Last First School Chapman Steve Mt. Bachelor Martin Jillian Mt. Baker Cecil Jim Mt. Hood Mdws Cook Josh Mt. Bachelor Martinez Rachel Chief Kitsap Clapick Justin Mt. Bachelor Evans Mike Mt. Bachelor McIntosh Diane Mt. Bachelor Cueno Katherine Mt. Bachelor McKenzie Kyle Mt. Bachelor McPherson Jr George Timberline Dake Krista Mt. Hood Mdws Ruuhela Matt Morgan Sproul Mt. Bachelor Divis Cameron 49° North Seymour Tara Mt. Bachelor Morris Raymond Mt. Hood Mdws Gits Todd Skiforall Smith Larry Mt. Bachelor O’Brien Eric Silver Mtn. Hansen Elli Silver Mtn. Sproul Morgan Mt. Bachelor Oleson Jennifer Clancy’s Hanson Erik Timberline Olson Julie Silver Mtn. Jones Casey Mt. Hood Mdws Peck Daniel 49° North Jones Nikolai 49° North Congratulations on Peets Kyle Mt. Ashland Koreis TJ Olympia Peterson Jessica Koreis Allen Olympia your hard work paying Pfiffner Richard Mt. Ashland Lammers Laura Schweitzer Mtn. off! It was no easy Pierson Jodie Mt. Spokane Logan April Silver Mountain Mack Megan Mt. Bachelor season to find time or Poe Chris Mt. Bachelor snow to train! SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 17 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org Senior Tour Thanks! 2005 Senior Tour

“Henney” makes a Event Recap good thing happen at Despite the fact that 2005 was for Seniors” would be an additional Timberline pretty much a non-ski/ride year in good topic for future on- snow the NW I got quite a bit of valu- sessions. Please extend our thanks to Molly able feedback relative to the Senior Fitch for permitting the PSIA-NW Tour and desired curriculum Based on feedback received after clinic at Timberline to take place on content. The predominant com- both the indoor and on-snow Wednesday, February 9, 2005. It ment from the Fall Seminar sessions, it appears that the focus was one of the best clinics that I sessions was that the indoor for the coming year should be have attended and a beautiful day sessions should be devoted to shifted a bit to include some on the mountain. teaching seniors of all abilities. As additional coverage of teaching a result, I have begun to compile skills with an emphasis on the Stephan Henrikson was our clinic useful information that will be needs of senior students. As a leader and he shared many of his presented at this coming season’s result of these inputs the on snow “teaching tricks” with us. His sessions. It is my hope to try to curriculum will consist of 4 choices approach was calm, reassuring and make these sessions as interactive of skiing and teaching improve- positive. Every demo was perfect as possible so that those attending ment. These will include: Work on and very clear to see what we were should bring some of their experi- the Basics; Approach to Adventure trying to accomplish. One exercise ences to share with the rest of the Skiing; Polishing Exam Skiing flowed into the next for a smooth attendees. In addition, one two day Tasks; and Approaches to Teaching progression during the day that was on snow session was given at the Seniors of all Abilities. really lots of fun. Each person was symposium at Bachelor. It was a given personal comments, feedback great group of enthusiastic folks The same number of opportuni- and exercises to fit their needs that really enjoyed the company, the ties will be offered in the 2005/ throughout the day. It was wonder- area and the snow conditions. The 2006 season but the content will be ful!!! feedback from that session was that expanded to include more on approaches to “Adventure Skiing Teaching Skill Development. The With the limited or total lack of emphasis will be on the basics that snow this winter, our day at Timberline will long be remem- bered as a bright spot in our “no snow” season. We are still hoping for a late season and skiing in March and April.

Thanks again for the excellent clinic and happy memories. Glenda and Maria Schuh

HENNEY WITH HIS GROUP AT TIMBERLINE IN FEBRUARY

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 18 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org Senior Tour Events are important to all age levels with of these have been published The proposed 2006 Senior Tour some specific information on the which contained tips and advice to events and the potential locations needs of “seniors” (who are aid the teaching effectiveness of are posted online and are availble defined as anyone who has our membership. I am hoping that through the office.. The program passed the bullet proof age or these writings will encourage our is very flexible and can accommo- state of mind). Since there membership to contribute their date special events such as Member appears to be a demand for more knowledge which I will include Ski School events and events at Teaching Skill specific information, depending on space available and other locations than the ones I committed last year to develop a value of content. Hopefully, this identified below if the interest is series of short articles for the will increase the involvement of sufficient to support the hiring of a Newsletter. The series has been our membership in the educational clinician. These special events can titled “Senior Moments”. A couple process. be scheduled through the office or by contacting your Board Repre- sentative in your region.

In Memoriam Liv Bodil Nurman Liv Bodil Nurman of Leavenworth, Her early hobbies included playing the Liv vacationed in Norway each summer one of the true pioneers of cross- piano, accordion, violin, singing and all and assisted her parents in running the country skiing in the nation, died types of gymnastics. Liv had a positive, University of Oslo Inter-national peacefully in her home the morning of joyous outlook and never let any Summer School, a program designed to June 23, 2005, physical or psychological obstacle teach skills in the mountains. In later curtail her love of life. years she became the director of the She was an active member of the program. Liv’s great passion was the Pacific Northwest Ski Instructors Liv, at age 20, worked her way to mountains and she was happiest when Association (now PSIA-NW) and the Chicago on a freighter bringing her hiking, backpacking, skiing or riding her Professional Ski Instructors of America. most prized possession – her old horse in the high country. She developed the first cross-country wooden skis and bamboo poles. She ski instructor certification program in taught skiing at Yosemite and for During her years in Leavenworth Liv, this Division as well as other PSIA several years taught at Alpine Meadows always the intrepid entrepreneur, Divisions. She was Vice President of the near Lake Tahoe. She also was a owned and managed the CASA MIA PSIA Nordic Program and wrote the stewardess for World Airlines and flew Mexican Restaurant and for the past 14 original teaching manual. In 1982, the all over the world. years she ran Leirvangen Bed and Pacific Northwest Ski Instructor Breakfast in her home in the Icicle Association honored her as the “Ski While at Alpine Meadows, Liv met Juris Valley. Leirvangen B&B became a focal Instructor of the Year.” Vagners and they married on December point with many people returning year 27, 1967 in Baerum, Norway and after year to enjoy Liv’s Norwegian Liv’s life was wrapped up in skiing. She moved to Seattle, Washington where hospitality and friendship. taught for Jack Nagel at Crystal Liv taught high school math and Mountain, Bob Hall, at Stevens Pass, science. At the same time Liv coached Liv will be greatly missed by her and co-directed the first cross-country the UW women’s ski team. daughter, son-in-law and ski school in the Northwest – Ski Free granddaughter, Tonje, Steve and Arija . In 1979, after a divorce, Liv, and her Williams of Denver, Colorado; her son two children, Maris and Tonje, moved to and daughter-in-law, Maris and Patricia Born May 1, 1942 in Baerum, Norway, Leavenworth, WA. where she taught Vagners of Tirol, Austria; her grandson, where she grew up and later graduated cross-country skiing for the rest of her Taylor Marean of Seattle, Washington; from the University of Oslo in 1962 with life. Liv opened her own ski and sports and, from Norway, her mother Randi a degree in Physical Education. shop, the Leavenworth Mountain Norman; her two sisters and brothers- Sports. Countless people in Wenatchee in-law: Helle and Sverre Moeller; and, The Rudolph Steiner School of Oslo and the Upper Valley knew Liv as a Tove and Eivind Amble and their helped her develop the wide spectrum resource for information, ski equipment children. Finn Norman, her very special of abilities in the arts, analytical and lessons through her cross-country father, preceded Liv in death in 2004 subjects and her holistic view of life. ski school.

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 19 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org From the Membership

If I Can Do It: A Tale So Strange It Has To Be True

BY MICHAEL PATMAS, MD were cheering for me and I rather hounds end up, to Snowbird. There, MEADOWS enjoyed myself despite having snow one instructor so inspired me, that (Editor’s Note-A timeless article about in some pretty strange places. she changed my life. The next perseverance) season, at the age of 40, I became an The Tulips are popping up and My next exposure came a year later instructor myself. Level one came everywhere you look, the signs of when I tried at Slide quite easily. Level two followed a few spring are unmistakable. For many Mountain. A “Washoe Zephyr” was years later. I was really well prepared of us, spring means exams and all blowing in and only the rope tow and passed strongly. A few years that goes along with them. Some of was operating. Without experience, later, Level 3 became my goal, but a us will savor the exhilaration of the predicable occurred. I fell torn anterior cruciate ligament broke success, others will taste disappoint- halfway up and rather than letting go, my knee and my heart. A long ment. I know both feelings well. You hung on for the ride. Upon my rehabilitation, from reconstructive see, I have had the distinction of arrival at the bottom, the operator surgery followed. Eventually, at 49 failing the level 3 skiing module three was shutting down the lift to the years of age, I took level 3. I passed times, but not in 2003. At the age of protest of an angry mob. It seemed the teaching module the first time, 51, with infirmities aplenty, I passed. some “fool” had been dragged up on but failed the skiing module badly. I What follows is one instructor’s the rope and as a precaution, they only passed one task. Disappointed bizarre path to level 3 alpine certifi- were closing the lift. One run, so but undaunted, I tried again and cation. Every bit of it is true. I much for that season. again, only to fail again and again. I couldn’t make up so story a strange. took some solace in the fact that I But I offer this to my ski teaching For the next few years, I skied a day was making progress each time. My colleagues as encouragement. For or two without the benefit of friends and coaches told me not to those of you who were not success- lessons. Finally, at the age of 26, in give up. After all, I was halfway there. ful this season, my tale should give my first year of medical school, I I couldn’t spend the rest of my life you hope. But beyond simple wishful needed a mid-week break from as a level “two and a half”. thinking, I have also included some studies and we had one afternoon a tips that you may not have heard or week free. Introduction to Alpine 2003 was going to be my best read before. I will share some Skiing 101 with a Dr. George season ever. I had it all planned. 50 insights and what worked for me. Twardokens caught my eye. Now, at days on skis, plenty of clinics and After all, not many folks have been that time, I had no idea I was about enough time to train. I was not going in as many level 3 skiing exams as I to ski 13 times with a legend. That to fail this time. Then it happened. have. season was the start of my quest to One January 20th, in a freak fall, I felt become a good skier. it tear again. I felt my season and my What makes my story so strange? plans evaporate before my eyes. The Well, consider that I never heard the For the next fifteen years or so, I MRI was conclusive; I had torn my click of boots into bindings until the traveled the skiing doctor circuit, ACL graft. But there was something age of 22. My first day on skis was attending medical conferences at different about it this time. It didn’t on my birthday. Goaded by friends nearly every major American ski hurt as much and there was no into trying it, I put my faith in their resort. I learned the hard way not to swelling. The doctor told me to take hands. Upon disembarking from the adjust your own bindings, but spiral a few weeks off, dig out my trusty gondola at Squaw Valley, they fractures of the fibula heal quickly. old brace and cautiously see what it abandoned me, laughing. It took me Eventually, I had the means to take feels like. To my surprise, I felt nearly all afternoon to get down. I lessons and I did so everywhere. But, alright. My knee felt weak and a little fell 35 times as I tried to figure out I had yet to experience powder unstable but my season wasn’t over. for myself how to ski. I can still skiing. I was like a traveling high As the weeks went by, it began to remember the epithets from those pressure system. It seemed every- feel even better. In March I attended trying to avoid my out-of-control, where I went I was in between our divisional academy thinking that flailing vectors. But there was storms. I wanted to ski powder and would be the salvaging highlight of something exciting about making it eventually I had to go where all my season. After three days, I had a down to the base area. My “friends” SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 20 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org From the Membership crazy idea. Maybe, somehow I could them. But here are some insights coherent progression that begins still ski well enough to take the from someone who has taken more with a more global intervention and exam? If I failed again, I could level 3 exams than most. becomes refined as the progression always have surgery after. is developed. Make sure you under- The Teaching Module stand and communicate using the Against all odds, I went for it. April terms and concepts of the efficient 19, 2003 was a beautiful day, sunny I was successful the first time out and inefficient visual cues. and warm. I skied pretty well I and here’s what helped me. Think thought, but was prepared for the COD. There’s nothing fishy about it. Next is Organization. I like to break inevitable FQ (“failed to qualify”). I’m talking about Content, Organiza- my teaching into segments. Try Needless to say, when they handed tion and Delivery. Content means dividing your lesson into 3 or 4 parts. me the pin, it was all I could do not basing your teaching segment on the Introduce the lesson at the top of to cry. visual cues to efficient and inefficient the run, set the demo and ski it a movements. Using a cause and effect quarter to a third of the way down. But sharing my story isn’t just about approach, analyze the person’s Provide feedback, add to the pro- being encouraging. I also have some fundamental movement patterns in gression, set the demo and ski it tips that might help you out. Many the domains of balance, edging, another quarter or third of the way fine articles have been written about rotary, pressure and directional down. Give some more feedback and exam preparation in this newsletter movement of center of mass. Select then blend the progression into and you should avail yourselves of one movement to work on and use a actual skiing. Take all the way to the CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE In Memoriam

John E. Hoefling David Mahre John’s life-long passion for skiing began as a child getting David R. Mahre, long time White Pass Ski Area to school during northern Wisconsin winters. He met his Manager, passed away on July 23, 2005. His love wife on the ski slopes of Mt. Hood; owned/directed of skiing and steady hand influenced an entire Western Ski Pros Ski School, at one time encompassing generation of skiers and ski racers, many from three Mt. Hood ski areas; volunteer patrolman; ski his own family. Twin sons Phil and Steve en- instructor certification examiner; co-founder Oregon joyed unprecedented success on the World Cup Snowsports Industries Association; ski shop co-owner; racing Circuit. Son Paul, also a US Ski Team “Oregon Skiing” TV host and endless journalism credits alumni, currently works at 49 Degrees North. editing, publishing and contributing to numerous local Daughters Chris, Jackie and Ruth attained suc- and regional ski publications. Honored as Mt. Hood’s cess at the National level before heading off to 2004 “King Winter” for his immeasurable contributions college. Daughter Roberta raced at the divisional to skiing. Graduate of Gresham High School, John’s love level and remains active as a PSIA member, cur- of Hawaii developed from a Navy stint spent in Hono- rently in Minnesota. Son Dave Jr. displayed his lulu, followed by Lewis & Clark College. His career on-snow talents via innate jumping abilities in encompassed years of data processing and association the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, effortlessly land- management, and founder/owner of Fast Print & Copy ing many of today’s aerial maneuvers from natu- Center. ral snow drifts. He later moved those airborne Dedication to community included Portland Auxiliary skills to piloting stunt planes, cropdusters and Police Reserve Captain, and serving on the board of corporate jets. David’s surviving family includes dozen of neighborhood associations and business 6 siblings, 9 children and their families. Father, organizations. Husband, Mentor and Ski Industry Pioneer - John’s sudden and unexpected passing on March 7 leaves we celebrate his life and mourn his passing. behind his wife, June; daughter, Vicki, and son-in-law, Ron Anderson; and countless friends across the country. Remembrances to the U.S. National Ski Hall of Fame.

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 21 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org From the Membership “IF I CAN DO IT” CONT. FROM PAGE 21 First, considers the mental aspects. ished. Nutritionally sound snacks like Remember that the level 3 exam is a a high protein power bar can make a chair. Finally, end the segment by lot like running a marathon. It will big difference in endurance in an giving positive feedback, summariz- play games with your head. Leading otherwise long and demanding day ing and checking for understanding. up to the exam, you will experience a during which you will definitely Examiners like a well organized range of emotions running from challenge your body. lesson with a coherent structure that excitement to dread. At times you’ll culminates in real skiing. feel confident, at others like a Finally, consider the soul. There is lemming. Find someone you can something glorious about skiing that Lastly, consider Delivery. How you share these feelings with. Someone is uplifting. Sharing this incredible present the information may be as you can trust who will support you sport with your friends, family and critical as what you present. Who emotionally. On exam day, you’ll students is one of life’s great joys. Be wants to take a lesson from someone likely have ups and downs. Stay on yourself and let your love of skiing, who is dull, uncertain apologetic? In task. Focus on the examiners and ski teaching, people and nature show. this setting, think of yourself as a exactly like they do. Be confident, Imagine doing these exams year after performer. You are on stage and this but not cocky. Support one another year. It must get pretty routine for is your show. Hey, it’s not a funeral! but avoid making judgments about the examiners. They see all kinds of Have some fun. Be lively, energetic what will pass and what won’t. strange behavior. People can get a and upbeat. Have a sense of humor! Believe me, you never know. I’ve little weird. If you end up on the Remember names and use them. observed that they seem to save the chair with an examiner, ask questions Don’t forget to end the teaching toughest tasks for the afternoon. It’s if you have them. But, try to relax segment with a bang because final like the 18 mile mark in a marathon. and have a bit of conversation impressions count! Remember to Here’s where you can breakdown having nothing to do with the exam. “stick the landing” mentally. So come out after lunch Try to have some fun. It will make fired up. Do whatever you have to do their day a little easier too! The Skiing Module to psych yourself up for the after- noon. Come out smokin’ and Parting Shots Now here’s where I must be an determined to ski aggressively and expert by now. I realize now there finish the day skiing strongly. Some folks pass their first time. If was huge value in having to take this you do, that’s great. But some don’t. exam four times. I now have a pretty Next, is the physical component. If you have the opportunity to take Level 3 is physically very demanding. good “feel” for how these exams are the exam more than once, realize done and what the examiners are You need to be in top physical that in a way, you are very lucky. condition, so take some time to really looking for. Obviously, you’ve got to You’re getting multiple chances to be able to ski at the level 3 standards. train. Not just for the tasks, but for see how exams are done and you’ll strength, flexibility and endurance. That is well described elsewhere in be improving your chances of The Professional Skier and Divi- You can never be too fit, too strong success next time. In the end, it is or too rich. If you are gasping for sional materials. My insights are a the ride not the destination that little different. I found myself breath, don’t make it obvious! Take a matters most. Above all, don’t get tip from marathon runners. Make thinking Mind, Body and Soul. discouraged. If I can do it, so can sure you stay hydrated and nour- you..

Need a little help with $$$$ to attend an event?

PSIA/AASI-NW has a scholarship fund designed to help offset the fees for educational events. You must be a current member of PSIA/AASI-NW (meaning you are up to date with your member dues) and submit a timely application for the scholarships. Applications are due 30 days prior to the event. Check out the website for details and an application.

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 22 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org Employment Opportunities CLASSIFIEDS Crystal Mountain Resort HELP WANTED Ski School Big Mountain in Whitefish, MT is Now Hiring Instructors seeking experienced, certified instructors. Situated in the of the 2005-2006 Season Northern Rocky Mountains, we offer 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, Seeking full-time professional instructors to provide individual and and a great team to teach and train group skill development sessions to students of all ages and at all skill with at our levels. Teach at least 5 days a week for a varied schedule of up to 32 Snowsports Center! Contact: 406- hours a week or more. 862-2906 or Temporary Job: 1st October 2005 to 1st June 2006. [email protected] Level III Certified Instructors: 8 positions, requires 3 seasons Children’s Supervisor position for instruction in skiing, snowboarding or race coaching experience. the 2005-06 season. Possession for or eligibility for PSIA level 3 certification or equivalent is necessary. Experience may be acquired in 2 calendar years. Salary The Tahoe Donner Ski School has range $21.84 to $25.00 per teaching hour. an opening for their Snowflakes Su- pervisor. This is an exempt, seasonal Respond to Job #1338933 position with a starting salary of $3,000 per month. Employment Level II Certified Instructors: 8 positions available. Requires 2 starts November 1, 2005. seasons instruction in skiing, snowboarding or race coaching experi- ence. Possession of or eligibility for PSIA level 2 or equivalent is The Snowflakes Supervisor is re- necessary. Experience may be acquired in 1 calendar year. sponsible for the children’s ski Salary range $12.00 to $20.00 per teaching hour. school program (ages 3 – 6) includ- Respond to Job #1339031 ing the overall development and daily operation of the program, ori- All Positions at Crystal Mountain Washington entation, staff hiring and training, Respond by September 10th, 2005 and scheduling. Send resume to: If interested, send resume to Bob Crystal Mountain Resort Bush, c/o Tahoe Donner Ski & C/O Employment Security Department Snowboard School, 11509 E & T Division Job #______Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA PO BOX 9046 96161 OLYMPIA, WA 98507-9046 Exciting Mt. Ashland is looking for certified Alpine, Snowboard, and Telemark instructors. Mt. Ashland is a fun place to work with New Address or Email! great terrain. Contact Chris Be sure to inform the PSIA-NW office if you move. The postal VanNess at (541) 482-2897 or visit service will not forward our mailings. Send your Name, New Ad- our website: www.mtashland.com dress, New Phone and New Email to the PSIA-NW, 11206 Des Moines Mem Dr., Suite #106, Seattle, WA 98168-1741, 206-244- 8541, [email protected]

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 23 NWINSTRUCTOR www.psia-nw.org On the Web Did you hear?

psia-nw.org Quiksilver is buying a It’s all on-line majority stake in Rossignol For the latest in PSIA-NW/AASI news, check us out online. Event updates and applications, program updates, articles, book/DVD/video The two partners who reviews, bookstore, merchandise and more. It’s all there at psia-nw.org. comprised Harbor Resorts, MIG Here is just a sample: Check out psia-nw.org for rest of the story. and Harbor Properties, have dissolved their partnership. As a Book Review result, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is now wholly owned by MIG Read Ed Kane’s review of Pathways to Superior Snowboard Lessons, the “Tiny Bubbles” Approach by Randy Price. This can be ordered directly Stevens Pass is in the from the PSIA National website for $9.50 plus postage. process of constructing a new station at the top of the 7th Learning to Skate with Dan Clausen Heaven . This new station BY STEVE HINDMAN will create a more efficient operat- With no snow at home, I spent February of 2005 working and teaching ing base for Ski Patrol and Lift with Nordic Team Member Dan Clausen at his home in Minocqua Winter Operations, while providing for Park in the cross-country skiing paradise that is Wisconsin. (go to psia- easier unloading of the 7th Heaven nw.org for the rest of the story) chairlift. The new offload ramp will be easier to negotiate and maintain, Sampling Southern Powder leading to less damage to equip- BY ED KANE ment and less congestion on The first week of January this year I joined the Western Ski Writers Cowboy Mountain. (NASJA) on a trip to some of the Tahoe ski areas. I’d always wanted to ski the sunshine and packed powder of these areas so that when this trip was scheduled, it was easy to make the decision to go. (go to psia-nw.org for the rest of the story) Archives Find articles from past newsletters quickly and easily. Articles and news

are categorized according to discipline. BY: PHOTO MARTY ANDREWS SCHWEITZER PSIA-NW Mission Statement Provide high quality educational resources and well defined standards to aid our members in improving their teaching skills to better satisfy the needs and expectations of their customer in the enjoyment of downhill and Nordic snow sports.

NORTHWEST SnowSport Instructor Non-Profit Org. PSIA-NW/AASI U.S. Postage PAID PNSIA-Education Foundation Seattle, WA 11206 Des Moines Memorial Drive, Suite #106 Permit No. 1681 Seattle, WA 98168-1741 (206)244-8541 www.psia-nw.org

time dated material

SNOWSPORT summer/fall 2005 24 NWINSTRUCTOR