Racing FAQ's |
What are the groups and ages for the program?
Entry Level Programs
Superstars ages 5-8
Youth Ski League ages 7-10
Alpine Development Programs
|
PROGRAM |
AGE |
DOB |
|
J5 |
9-10 |
('00-'99) |
|
J4 |
11-12 |
('98-'97) |
|
J3 |
13-14 |
('96-'95) |
|
J2 |
15-16 |
('94-'93) |
|
J1 |
17-18 |
('92-'91) |
What are the dates for the program?
Begins December 19, 2009 & ends March 7th, 2010. (weather permitting)
What are the training hours for the program?
Superstars meet Saturday and/or Sundays 9am-12pm
Youth Ski League weekends 8:30-2:30 (break for lunch)
Alpine Dev. Program Tues and Thurs nights (optional) 6pm-8pm
Weekend training is between 8:30 a.m. (break for lunch) - 2:30 p.m.
How do I know if the Competition Teams are right for my child?
An athlete who is independent, motivated, focused and committed to the sport will fit right in. Our Racing Program Director, Jim Backman is available to speak with any parent who would like more information. He can be reached via email jbackman@mountaincreek.com.
Where do the athletes meet for training?
The Alpine Development & Youth Ski League athletes meet in our race room in Cobblestone Village ready to go no later than 8:30 a.m.
Superstars meet @ the Race Room located in Cobblestone Village, ready to go at 9:00am
What happens if we are late for training?
We understand and our office is in radio contact with every Head Coach. They can direct you to where your child can catch up with their group or find a coach with a radio to assist you. Phone: (973)864-8177
What do children do for lunch?
Most athletes do eat together lunch in our Race Room Mountain Creek Coaches do not monitor your children during the lunch hour. We would advise parents to either pack a lunch for their child, or make necessary arrangements to pick your child up when lunch begins, check with their coach.
Is there an early-season meeting for parents to learn more about the programs?
Yes, TBA
What are the prerequisites for enrolling my child in the Alpine Development team program?
As mentioned above, your child needs to be a proficient mountain skier. Children should also be old enough and self-sufficient enough to spend a day on the hill. Your child should have the stamina to ski from 8:30 am – 2:30 pm, willingness to participate, ability to communicate clearly about basic needs (cold, hurt, hungry, thirsty, bathroom), ability to be away from Mom & Dad all day, and the ability to stay warm on cold days, etc. Of course, our coaches spend the day with the athletes, but the coaches are not babysitters.
If my child is not ready for the racing program, what other program is there?
Superstars and Youth Ski League are great programs focusing on skill development, fun, and lot's of skiing. These programs will prepare the younger athlete for the Alpine Development Program
Are competitions mandatory?
Competition is part of our programs. Athletes are encouraged, but not required to participate in competitions. If your child chooses not to participate in competitions, there may not be training available on those days.
Where are the competitions?
Most of the races are local but keep in mind that there is some travel involved at the higher levels.
Are all competitions attended by coaches?
Mountain Creek coaches will attend all approved competitions with their athletes. Post Season competitions at or beyond the Junior Olympic or National Championship level are not included in our schedule. Parents of athletes who qualify for these events will be responsible for additional fees which include transportation, lodging and meals and race fees for themselves and for coaches. The coach's expenses will be divided evenly for athletes who attend these events.
I would like to contact the Coach who is instructing my child, how can I contact him or her?
Request a meeting verbally when you drop off your child in the morning. They are available to meet with you from 2:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. on weekend training days.
Any tips to improve your experience in the Alpine Development Program?
1. Get your Season Passes before the first day of training.
2. Register for the program early.
3. Register for USSA, NJSRA and consider joining Skylands Ski Club.
4. Show up early for the first few visits until you're comfortable with the schedule
5. Please contact us anytime with questions.
What is USSA?
USSA is the United States Ski & Snowboard Association. It is the National governing body for US skiing. This organization provides leadership and direction for tens of thousands of young skiers and snowboarders from over 400 member clubs who share an Olympic dream.
Do I need to have a USSA Card/License?
Yes. Every athlete in our Alpine Development Program needs to have a USSA card to compete in USSA Sanctioned events.
How do I register for USSA?
USSA has launched online registration and wants to thank our club partners, key volunteers and members for a successful launch! We're registering hundreds of members each week through the new online system.
Where can I get an application for USSA?
You can go to www.ussa.org or call them at 425.647.2666 or email them at membership@ussa.org for assistance.
What is NJSRA?
NJSRA is the New York Jersey Ski Racing Association. It is the official governing body for competition in the State of New Jersey. Check it out at www.njsra.org. When you register with USSA you can register for NJSRA, very simple.
What is Skylands Ski Club?
Skylands Ski Club support our program by volunteering to help with race events and other functions. They provide an avenue of fun by offering a year round schedule of get togethers such as raft trips, hiking and dinners, etc. Check them out at www.skylandsski.com .