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- YSL Competition Team (U8-U12)
The Alpine YSL Team is designed for athletes ages 6–11 who are ready to develop strong racing skills and compete in alpine events. With a focus on technical progression and race fundamentals, athletes build confidence, consistency, and strong habits both in and out of the gates.
Athletes work on:
- Alpine racing fundamentals and gate training
- Technical free skiing and edging skills
- Balance, stance, and pressure control
- SkillsQuest development
- Race tactics and course inspection
- Confidence and consistency in training and competition environments
Training is designed to help athletes progress both technically and mentally while fostering teamwork, sportsmanship, and a passion for ski racing.
All races are held on Sundays (additional fees apply).
All athletes are required to have a USSS competitor’s membership.
- Training Schedule
- 1 Day: Sundays (8:30 AM – 2:30 PM)
- 1.5 Day: Saturdays (8:30 AM – 2:30 PM) + half-day Sundays (8:30 AM – 12:30 PM)
- 2 Day: Saturdays and Sundays (8:30-2:30)
- Competitions and Events
Yes (USSS Competitor License required; races typically on Sundays)
Additional Fees apply
- Training Focus
- Alpine fundamentals and technical skill development
- Introduction to SkillsQuest and race training
- All-mountain skiing across varied terrain
Additional Info
- Optional April races and May spring camps (additional fees)
- Friday training available with punch card
- Season-long video analysis, goal setting, and end-of-season evaluation
- Early and late season training opportunities at Arapahoe Basin (additional fees apply)
- Meeting location: Base of Peak 9 (Parking for team drop off is in the skier drop-off in the Beaver Run Parking Lot (main skier parking lot).
Please DO NOT park / drop off in the Beaver Run bus loop (this is drive through drop off. Cars can not be left unattended while you walk your athlete over to meet their coaches).
- Fees and Obligations
(Level 3+)
Age U8, U10, U12, (6-11)
U8 - U12 - Sunday Only
(8:30-2:30)
Price: $3,209
U8 - U12 - 1.5 Day (Saturday 8:30-2:30 & Sunday 8:30-12:30)
Price: $3,519
U8 - U12 - 2 Day (Saturday and Sunday 8:30 - 2:30)
Price: $3,726
- Pass Requirements
Epic Local Pass (or higher) required. Pass not included in program fee.
A-Basin Pass is optional and recommended
- Equipment Recommendations
Skis:
U8-U12 Athletes need only a single pair of multi-event racing skis. Free-skiing skis are nice but not required. Race/Training Skis One pair of multi-event skis that are entry-level race skis suitable for GS, SL, Kombi, and free-skiing. Skis should have a 10-12 M radius and a length between the athlete’s nose and forehead.U14-U18: Athletes may choose to have event-specific skis for Slalom and Giant Slalom.
Note Only one pair is allowed at each race
Boots: A four-buckle boot is preferred, with no more than a 50 to 60 flex for the lightest skiers. Athletes must be properly fitted and able to flex their ankle when the boot is buckled. Avoid buying boots the child will "grow into" as boots that are too big or stiff will hinder their progress. Ensure they are in a junior boot, not an adult boot.
USSA Helmet Policy
All athletes are required to have a hard ear helmet. U14 and U16 are required to have a USSA FIS approved hard ear helmet, for Giant Slalom races. See picture on the left. We recommend that all athletes purchase a FIS approved hard ear helmet no matter their age.
Equipment Guidelines for YSL Athletes:
*Each athlete should talk with their coach regarding the recommended ski length.Other Protective Equipment:
SL Shin guards/Pole guards:
Not absolutely essential for U12 and younger but U14’s and U16’s should think about purchasing this equipment. Protective equipment can not only shield body parts from injury, but can provide a young racer with the confidence to block gates in SL more effectively. Please consult your coaches for specific recommendations.