If it would only snow now we'd be all set.
For those of you new to the program as well as those of you returning, welcome! This is the place to look for updated information on the program, shedules, athletes, competitions, etc. as we work our way through the winter.
Our first official program day for the weekenders will be Sunday, December 6, 2009. Use Saturday to freeride or ski and break in the new gear but on Sunday be prepared to get to work. The program day starts the same as all the rest - all freeride athletes geared up and ready to go in front of the NYSEF building by 8:15am. Remember - helmets are mandatory. After a little warm-up we head to the lift for our first runs. If you're running late just check in at the front desk where Linda will call the coach on the radio and link you up, probably on the next run. Normally we take a short break at "Mid-station" around 10am - just a quick warm-up - and then it's back on the hill until lunch. We will announce the set lunch time on the first day and then it usually stays the same for the season. Parents can take their kids for lunch in the main lodge or use the NYSEF main room to sit and eat. Lunch lasts for 45 minutes and then it's back on the hill until 2:00pm, the end of the program day.
Make sure to account for changing weather - it's always good to have an extra layer, neck gaiter or scarf, hand warmers, etc. available. Athletes may leave a backpack in the lodge during the day which is always staffed. Also, you may want to have a few bucks on hand to get a hot chocolate, etc.
The Freeride calendar (above) will continue to be updated as the season progresses. There you will find freestyle and snowboard events and training days applicable to our full and part-time programs. This is not a complete listing however, so make sure to check with your coach to be sure you've got the right dates.
Lastly, and in case you have questions I haven't answered here, please feel free to contact me via the phone, 518-946-7001 ext-35, or the best way is to e-mail me at mikek@nysef.org .
I'm looking forward to a busy and hopefully snowy winter with great conditions and great results from all our athletes. Let's all work hard and keep it fun!
Mike Kirchner
Freeride Director/Snowboard Coach
