XC BRAGG CREEK SKI AND BIKE SOCIETY

XCBC Nordic Program Spotlight

It’s hard to believe, but it’s already time to start thinking about the upcoming ski season and which Nordic programs might be the best fit for your families and athletes. Jackrabbits and Bunnies are programs designed for younger skiers. As a young athlete grows, there are two streams to choose from, our Recreational Ski Program or Nordic Ninja’s. The Recreational Ski Program provides young skiers ongoing skiing opportunities in a non competitive environment, focused on fun and community. Nordic Ninjas is a great way to introduce kids to competitive ski racing in a fun, low pressure environment. There’s a lot of information below, so please take a moment to read through the details— and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Registration for all Winter Ski Programs is now open. If you are interested in volunteering with any of the below programs please email programdirector@ xcbraggcreek.ca for more information.

Bunnies
Ages: 5 (or 4 with approval)
This program is designed for 5-year-olds who are new to cross-country skiing.
The emphasis is on helping kids feel comfortable on skis while having fun! Sessions are game-based, with a strong focus on enjoyment and movement on snow.

Prerequisites: NONE
Required Equipment: Classic skis, poles, and boots.
Dates: December 4 – March 13
Schedule: 1 session/week – Fridays, 4:00–5:00 PM
Fee: $185

Jackrabbits
Ages 6–9
Jackrabbits is designed for kids ages 6 to 9. This program focuses on the FUNdamentals of cross-country skiing: movement, downhill techniques, trail etiquette, safety, balance, agility, and coordination. Expect lots of games, fun activities, and some low-key racing throughout the season.

Prerequisites: NONE
Required Equipment: Classic skis, poles, and boots.
Dates: December 4 – March 13
Schedule: 1 session/week – Fridays, 4:00–5:00 PM
Fee: $185

Recreational Ski Program
Ages 10–16
This program is for skiers who have either finished Jackrabbits and love being outside, skiing with friends, and want to continue developing their skills in a fun and social environment, or skiers who are new to the sport, and want to develop their skills but are outside the Jackrabbits age limits. There will be instruction, with emphasis on technique but the Rec Ski Program’s goal is to build proficient lifelong skiers who love the sport.

Note: This program ends earlier than others—on February 13—and sessions run 90 mins.
Prerequisites: Participants are expected to be capable of general physical activity (walking/hiking on moderate terrain) for ~15 mins continuously between breaks.
Dates: December 4 – February 13
Schedule: 1 session/week – Fridays, 4:00–5:30 PM
Fee: $195

To register for Bunnies, Jackrabbits & Rec Ski follow this link: https://zone4.ca/register.asp?id=39547

Nordic Ninjas 1 & 2
These programs introduce athletes to competitive skiing in a fun, supportive environment. Sessions focus on the continued building of FUNdamental ski skills, training and fitness through games and activities that challenge each athlete individually. Participants are encouraged to participate in Alberta Cup Ski Races and the Alberta Youth Championships.

Prerequisites – Participants are generally expected to have completed the Jackrabbits program prior to registering for Nordic Ninjas. Exceptions may be made subject to skier evaluation and Coach discretion. New skiers looking for coaching and instruction to learn to ski are encouraged to explore our Recreational Ski Program.

Nordic Ninja 1
Ages 9–12
Dates: November 4 – March 14
Schedule: 1 session/week – Saturdays (AM)
Fee: $300

Nordic Ninja 2
Ages 9-12
Dates: November 4 – March 14
Schedule: 2 sessions/week – Tuesdays (PM) & Saturdays (AM) Includes:Coaching and Wax support for up to 2 Alberta Cup Race weekends
Fee: $600

Club Racer
Ages 12+
This is an athlete training program for competitive skiers who want to take their skiing and racing ability to the next level. The Club Racer program builds on the foundations of ski technique established in Jackrabbits and Nordic Ninjas and focuses on refining technical skills in both classic and skate skiing, as well as building the physical and mental strength for racing—and life. Athletes in the Club Racer program are strongly encouraged to participate with XCBC support in all Provincial level Alberta Cup Ski Races to earn points toward Alberta Provincial Ski team qualifications. In addition to Alberta Cup races, Club Racer Athletes can compete in other Regional or National level Ski Races throughout the ski season in conversation with coaches and with 3rd party support coordinated by XCBC. Prerequisites: Capable skiers, able to perform both, classic and skating ski techniques on challenging trails. Maturity to listen to and follow coach instructions and ask questions when appropriate without disrupting the session or interfering with the learning and training of other athletes,
General: Registrants are all subject to evaluation, participation in the Club Racer program is at all times subject to Coach discretion based on athlete ability to meet the demands of the program. New skiers looking for beginner level coaching and instruction to learn to ski will be directed to the Recreational Ski Program.
Dates: November 4 – March 14
Schedule: 3 sessions/week – Tuesdays (PM), Thursdays (PM), Saturdays (AM)
Includes: Race support for all 8 Alberta Cups
Fee: $900

To register for Nordic Ninjas & Club Races follow this link: https://zone4.ca/register.asp?id=39545