The social network
There are plenty of opportunities out there for teenagers to start cross country skiing and progress in the sport, including through school, via state and national development programs, with resort based ski schools, or through family and friends. The social side of the sport plays a big role in keeping teenagers involved, and many will develop lifelong friendships, and commence down paths that will take them all over the world.
School ski programs
Many schools close to the snow (and some far from the snow) have annual or regular ski days and may ski competitively in the interschools xc program. Ask your school whether they have a program available, if not, talk to your school about starting a ski program. Most ski schools have information and resource packages that can help get a school ski program up and running, or even help to organise them.
Some great events designed for teenagers
The following racing events are suitable for teenagers as they are distances are age dependent and lots of fun. A great opportunity for teenagers to meet others of their own age and experience the thrill of racing.
• Perisher – Paddy Pallin Junior Shield
• Falls Creek – Snow Trek and Travel Mini Series
• Lake Mountain – Mini Series
• Mt Buller – Interschools
• Fast and Female at Falls Creek, Lake Mountain and Perisher
• Falls Creek – Joey Hoppet
Some clubs/community groups run programs specifically aimed at the teenager.
If you are really keen think about the State Teams
The NSWXC Program covers all levels of development from Fundamentals to Learn to Compete. Dryland training camps are held regularly throughout the year in Canberra, Jindabyne and Sydney, with some camps held in interesting locations. On-Snow training is held throughout winter in Perisher. The Club, Squad and Team have differing selection criteria which are available through contacting a NSWXC Athlete Management Group member.
The Victorian Program’s aim is to develop the physiological and psychological skills of junior cross country skiers in a fun and supportive environment, acting as a stepping for the Australian Junior Team. Camps are held year-round in various locations such as Anglesea, Lake Mountain, Mount Beauty, Falls Creek and Warburton. Training camps and weekend clinics aim to improve athletes technique development and assist with race specific skills in the freestyle and classic disciplines. The Team and Development squad have differing selection criteria which are available on the Victorian Cross Country Team website.