Miscellaneous

AZA_Misc1993_Part1

INsrRU Vol. 14 NO.3 IS THIS THE WAY TO MARKET TO AN AGING POPULATION? Go South This Spring! The Official Publication of PSIA-Intermountain Winter Two 1992/1993 INTER PRO: COULD Communications THIS BE AN INTER SKI Message FOR THE REST OF US? I'"WWI THE SNOW IS OVER 10 FEET DEEP! THIS SPRING PSIA-I GOES TO BRIANHEAD. By STEW MARSH The season is half over. An incredible amount of snow has fallen over the Inter­mountain region. All this snow has given every area the opportunity to experience a great holiday season. During these busy months ahead, thoughts of skiing, taking part in divisional and in-house training has taken the spotlight. Many members are prepar­ing for assessments and others adding to their clinic credit hours. Over the years I, as a board member, clinician and ex­aminer have read many evaluations and critiques. The one question that is responded to the most is "what prevents you from taking more clinics'?" The answer most often given is time and money. In a previous article I addressed the cost. Time is another issue. Intennountain Division SIRC Report The implementation of the educational master plan two years ago did create alot of clinics. So many, in fact, that many members were away from their area too much. Directors. area operators and mem­bers. alike. felt something needed to be done. The board chose to keep the pro­gram the same and modify the calendar. John Diefenderfer responded to the con­cerns and did modify the calendar. There were more early season clinics and ill) assessment that were poorly attended or canceled. Is there an answer? By NONA WEATHERBEE and CARLIE SIEMEL The Ski Instructor's Representative Com­mittee (SIRC) met at SL Community Col­lege November 21. and at Brighton February 21. The main purpose of the November meeting was to develop a proposal to sub­mit to the BOD regarding the nomination and election process for the BOD. The following proposal was submilled to the BOD: It was proposed that PSIA-J be divided into seven regions. each region to have one representative to the bo;u-cl with the remaining four positions to be elected as "at large" members. Below is a list of proposed regions and the year each region could begin participating in the election process. I. Jackson Hole. Grand T:u'ghee 1904-07 2. Kelly Canyon. Pebble Creek. Beaver Mtn. 1093-96 3. Snowbasin. Nordic Valley. Powder Mtn. 1993-96 4. Elk Meadows. Brianhead 1993-96 5. Deer Valley. Park City. Park West 1994-07 6. Solitude. Brighton. Sundance 1995-9R 7. Snowbird. Alta 1995-9R collI ill IIn/ Oil .? Questions and concerns still come from deep within the membership. "Too many credit hours are required. costs are too high. the assessments are too difficult." One must understand that these standards have not varied much over the years this division has existed. The number of clinic hours jumped from 12-IR because many members were abusing the system. For example. only going to the Spring Clinic COlllilllll'd 011 .? New DECLs Selected at Park City Fifteen instructors were selected January 23 and 24 to serve PSIA Intermountain as Divisional Examiners and Clinic Leaders. Training for the newly selected DECLs was scheduled to begin Februay 20 at Snowbird. The selection process evaluated participants in the areas of skiing. technical knowledge, and teaching-both on and off the hill. A tightly grouped field of scores held candidates in suspense until early in the evening when DECL Selection Executive Scott Mathers read the names of the people who will soon be helping conduct clinics and exams within PSIA Intermountain. Congratulations to all who participated and PSIA-I's new DECLs: Participants Nathan Emerson, JH; Wally Hm·tleaur. Sol.; Scott W:UT. Sun.; Tim McCarthy. Alta Rick Miller, SEd.; A. J. Workman. Sol.; Scott Rockwood, Pebble Cr.; Brian Bush. DV: Doug Miller. non-affilliated: Greg Underwood, Pebble Cr.; Chip Herron. SBd.: Glen Price. Alta; Chris Donato, DV; George Mosher. Tm·ghee. Newly Selected DECLs Guillermo Avila.Paz, DV; William Batt. SBd.; Heidi Bobela. DV; Kevin Chaffee. SBd.; K. K. Hoagland. DV: Dan Keiley. DV; George Kolbenschlag, SBd.; Kim Mayhew, DV; Jane Miller. DV; Carlie Siemei. SBd.: Lauri Sindei. Alta; Lance Swedish, DV; Steve Urie, DV; Steve Weinstein. DV: Bart Zawacki. SEd. _ SIRC cOl/tillued ji'om J Four at large members One elected 1993-96 Two elected 1994-97 One elected 1995-98 Also under discussion at the meeting was to give each voting member 1.5 credit hours per year to vote. Voter turnout is very poor. With a change to regionaliza­tion, there is hope for more support from all members of PSIA-I. The SIRC mem­bers also discussed publishing the voting records of the BOD in the EDGE for everyone's review. The general focus of the February meet­ing was the Ed./Cert. Master Plan. John Diefenderfer was present to provide infor­mation and answer lluestions about the plan as it exists and as it might be modified. The main m'eas of discussion were: Level IV Certification Basically. Certified IV is on hold in our division. although PSIA is working on developing the idea. There is a strong perception by SIRC members that the membership of Intermountain division favors more and better continuing eduC<l­tion opportunities for Certified III. and not "'more hoops to jump through." Clinic Requirements Most SIRC members belicve that 12 clinic crcdit hours every two years are sufficient. especially if the clinics are truly effective at promoting continued 2 INSTRUCTORS EDGE professional growth. It also seems that the 3-hour credit for the general membership meeting is considered inappropriate and should be eliminated. Fender is planning a proposal to the BOD to implement these positions next year. Clinics/Assessments Feedback obtained by the SIRC com­mittee indicates a strong perception among PSIA-I members that the prereq­uisite clinics for Cel1ified II and III. al­though effective in their own right. do not help prcpare people for the assessments. p:u·ticularly in the m'ea of mechanics. This is being addressed through simpli fied. intensified DECL training. with the possibility that at some time in the future the skiing and mechanics as­sessments may be combined. There was also a discussion of the pos­sibility of eliminating the requirement of taking the Certified II and III clinics before taking the respective assessments. This will be discussed further at the next SIRC meeting. That meeting is scheduled to be held in Brianhead. UT at the Spring Clinic on April 17 at 3:00 p.m. Remember. PSIA and PSIA-I were founded to benefit the instructor. If you have questions or concerns. please contact your local SIRC representative. If your ski school does not have a representative. please contact Lynn Suksdorf, the com­mittee chairperson. All current repre­sentatives and their phone numbers are listed in cach edition of thc EDGE. _ COMMUNICA TION cOlltinued from 1 mld not partaking in any of the clinics. Personally, I feel the Spring Clinic should be a choice for credit-either play, or pm·ticipate in a clinic. The bottom line is, is the teacher prepared to give the skiing public a quality and consistent product'? I believe through preparation and a desire to become a quality teacher and to provide that quality product the methods and the means this division has fostered is the right direction. Presently, the Board is following the basic guidelines set up years ago. This division is not in the business to make or profiteer money from its members. I believe that the board is responsive to the concerns of the various committees. The SIRC and the past presidents committees remain a vital link to open lines of com­munication. These must exist to maintain a strong and functional association. I chal­lenge each one of you to express your concerns about clinics. hours, etc. to your representatives or board member. It is heard! I wish to acknowledge and thank John Diefenderfer for his tireless work and dedication as Education and Certification chairperson the past year. He will be step­ping down from these positions at the end of the season. Dave McConnick, current DECL and past member of the PSIA Na­tional Team will be taking over the reigns of certification. At press time the division is still seeking a replacement for the education chair. I would like to remind all members that although no specific office hours are listed. Nancy and her family need time together. Nancy has always been very friendly and helpful to all the members practically any time of "the day or night. It concerns me that members still do call or stop by at inappropriate times and expect Nancy to help thcm. I would just say use common sense and put yourselves in the same position as Nancy. She is a very valuable asset to this division. so THINK! Finally, the Spring Clinic is fast ap­proaching. Get your applications in early. The snow is great at Brianhead this year. From all indications the people there are going to show all those who attend a fabulous time. Have a great last half of a season, and remember to vote! _ Go South This Spring! April 16, 1 7 & 1 8 PSIA Intermountain Spring Clinic Watch for your application! Start planning now for the PSIA-I Spring Clinic. Brianhead resort in southern Utah is experiencing an unbelievable snow year and now is the time to break with tradition and head south to say goodbye to winter. Watch your mailbox for a special Spring Clinic mailing due to arrive soon. Fantastic lodging rates! The Brianhead Hotel has opened its doors to PSIA-I members and is offering a variety of lodging opportunities at fantastic savings to you. Make your lodging reservations now with the lodging company of your choice and send in your clinic registration to the PSIA office as soon as it arrives. Only at the Brianhead Hotel !Includes complimentary breakfast buffet!) Studios at 45% off: Only $ 45/night One Bedrooms: Three Bedrooms at 300/0 off: Only $45/night (save 500/0) Only $ 1 1 5/night Call 1 800 272-7426 and mention PSIA-I group number 1695 for reservations. Additional Lodging Brianhead Condominium Reservations: 801 677-2045 Save 100/0! Accommodations Station: 801 677-3333 Clinic Rates 1 Day = $52.75 3 Day = $ 1 00 (Both include Saturday banquet. Additional banquet tickets are $25 each.) INSTRUCTORS EDGE 3 If the ski industry is going to prosper in the 90s we must actively recruit new skiers in the 40-55 age range. In conjunc­tion with this effort PSIA will need to further focus its attention on the needs of this group. WHY? During the 1990s the number of people 45-54 will increase by 46 percent. The 35-44 and 55-64 age brackets will in­crease by about 15 percent During the same period (1990-2000), the number of 18-24 year-aids will decrease by 3.5 per­cent, and the 25-34 bracket will decrease by 15 percent. Clearly, the market of older skiers 40-plus will increase significantly during the 1990s while the market of younger skiers (less than 30) decreases. Middle agers not only have the numbers, they also have the money. The cUITent average income of people 45-54 is four times the income of people 15-24 and 50 percent higher than people 25-34. More importantly, the average discretionill'y in­come of people 45-49 is 85% higher than people 15-24 and almost 60 percent higher than people 25-29. The 25 percent of Americana over age 50 own about three quarters of the country's assets and do about half of the total discretionary spend­ing. In terms of net worth, 11 percent of households headed by people 45-54 have a net worth over $250,000 compared to 1.5 percent of households headed by people under 35. The Wrong Image I recently asked a middle aged friend of mine what it would take to get him into skiing. I considered him a prime can­didate, a good athlete, physically fit, look­ing for new experiences and rich. He as­sured me he couldn't try skiing because it was "too hard" and she'd "probably get hurt." One of the problems is the image we convey. Thirty years of WaIT en Miller movies and pictures of people jumping off cliffs has convinced the public that skiing is a very exciting but also dangerous sport. Attached is a typical picture from the cover of Ski Magazille. I'm not sure who relates to it, but certainly not most middle aged skiers. We need to promote the mel­low aspects of skiing: gorgeous scenery, sunny skies, new friends, graceful and controlled turns, great food, fire-side chats, luxurious accommodations. etc. One Successful Program The Hyland Hills Ski School in Bloomington. Minnesota. offers a special 4 INSTRUCTORS EDGE Courting The Older Skier By JACK SHELDON. SNOWBIRD I'WWI learn-to-ski program exclusively for people over 40. A survey of 1990-91 par­ticipants indicated that all respondents were going to continue skiing and over half were going to continue with lessons. Russell Bagley the program supervisor offers the following tips for success: 1. Offer classes exclusively for older skiers. Many of the students are nervous and self conscious. Mixing them with 20 year aids would make differences in strength. stamina and agility too obvious. Also it makes it easier to socialize and pace the class. 2. Use instructors who work well with older skiers. Maturity, patience, and empathy are key ingredients. 3. Use enough instructors - the low stu­dent teacher ratios will be paid back later in more lessons and lift ticket sales. 4. Keep the lessons relatively short­ill'ound 2 hours .. Instruction As a newcomer to PSIA, I'm impressed with the depth of research the organiza-tion has done on all aspects of ski instruc­tion. There is certainly nothing I can add that is new. However, it may be worthwhile to reiterate some of the factors that are particularly relevant to older skiers. Fear Many new older skiers are afraid they're going to get hurt. The media has con­vinced them it's a dangerous sport or they can remember the days of bear traps, long wooden skis and too many skiers with broken legs. Many have not participated in sports for a long time and may have illl ingrained fear of falling. One way to as­sess the fear factor is to ask questions. . Who exercises? How often? Anyone recovering from an injury? Did you get a good night's sleep? How was breakfast? Poor eye contact, profuse sweating, thirst and exhaustion are indicators of excessive stress. Some of the actions we can take to mitigate the problem include: 1. Tell a joke - get the class laughing. 2. Stay well within the comfort zone. 3. Provide lots of positive feedback. 4. Summarize the lesson plan early so students know what to expect. 5. Play simple movement games - duck under a pole. bob up and down, take lateral steps etc. 6. Work on breathing - inhale at the initiation, exhale at the finish of a turn. Take a few deep breaths before a task to relax. Fatigue Fear often leads to fatigue. MilllY new middle aged skiers also have sedentary jobs and get relatively little exercise. The instructor needs to be sensitive to the signs of fatigue including falling, heavy breath­ing, perspiration, degenerating coordina­tion, lack of responsiveness, changes in speech pattems, etc. We need to provide frequent rest periods which can be used to stimulate social interaction, a very impor­tant factor with older skiers. Consider energy levels as well as skills when splitting classes and allow students to work at their own pace during open practices. Schedule the most vigorous ac­tivities early and orchestrate a successful experience at the end of the class. Most older skiers don't want to be famous by Friday, give them time to rest and recover. Socialize Older skiers want to meet other skiers their own age. Group interaction is very , j " / J \ J " I J important. One way to get off to a good start is to have each student introduce another student to the class. They can prepare the introductions during the first chair ride. During the lesson keep en­couraging group discussions by con­centrating on the reciprocal, group, guided discovery, and problem solving teaching styles. Conditioning By age 35 a person's metabolism begins to slow, tendons and ligaments stiffen and the bone mass begins its gradual decline. Though warming up and stretching is im­portant for any group it's particularly im­portant for older skiers. Warming up and stretching ... 1. Stimulates the metabolism. 2. Lubricates the joints. 3. Increases the heart's capaci ty to pump oxygenated blood. 4. Increases muscle elasticity. 5. Quickens response time. In general, warm up and stretching ses­sions should take 10-15 minutes and in­clude the following: I. Non specific limbering exercises­neck rotations, shoulder shrugs, breathing exercises. etc. 2. Sport specific activities-leg pumps, trunk twists. half squats etc. 3. Warm-up runs with a tilde inde­pendent leg salon. and a few balanc­ing exercises. At lower levels, try walking, stepping and gentle climb­ing activities. 4. Stretching-only after a warm-up. Whenever possible we should encomage older skiers to participate in dry-land ses­sions with an eye towards helping them establish a year-round exercise program. The goal would be to have them begin a program three times per week. 30 minutes per session, combining wmm ups. stretch­ing, strength and aerobic activities. Tech Talk A few technical modifications may have to be made for older skies. A greater em­phasis on reducing edge angle and pres­sure to permit easy turning and skidding may compensate for joint or muscle problems. Slower reaction times may lead to mor long rather than short radius turns. Experienced older skiers may have in- COli lill l/cd Oil 8 Women's College: Viva La Difference By CHERYL FOX, DEER V ALLEY The Intermountain Division of PSIA was well represented at the first National PSIA Women's College. Instructors from Alta, Powder Mountain, Snowbird, Brighton and Deer Valley attended the college in Winterpark, Colorado and enjoyed theop­portunity to ski with current mld past Na­tional D-Team members Dee Byrne, Nancy Oaks and Carol Levine, along with instructors from all over the west. We experimented with binding place­ment, heel lifts and discussed the validity and necessity of customizing equipment for different body shapes. Jean Thoren, a self-taught expert .on women's skiing physiology, provided many useful ideas for equipment customization. while two sports physiologists provided statistics on gender differences and how they affect sports performance. If we reached any consensus beyond the undisputed fact that men and women have different bodies. it was that we agreed on the value of playing with our equipment Letters By CLINT CARLSON. PSIA-NRM Editor's Note: Many people are familiar with Lex Kunau's "Letters" group and the communiques the group generates. The following excerpt is from one such letter. Along with teaching skiing. I also teach Karate in Missoula. MT. We have a num­ber of "Karate Sayings" that seem per­tinent to skiing: l. Whatever the attitude, so is the response. 2. The ankle is the wrist of the foot. 3. Let time be your measurement to skill and experience. 4. Conditioning and guts take over where skill and experience end. 5. Many answers lie in a single move. but many moves do not necessm-ily give a single answer. 6. Slow to lemon. slow to forget. 7. Knowledge is bound when com­pelled to tradition. Knowledge is endless when tradition is bound. ('oillilllled Oil 8 to make it perform to individual grin fac­tors. Just as we demo several different skis before picking the one that makes us smile the most, so experimenting with things like heel lifts and binding placement can also help us find the optimum settings for the biggest grins. Equipment is important mld we should not assume that our stu­dents are on the best possible stuff. While the college curriculum did not officially include the more controversial issue of gender based psychological dif­ferences, it was a widely discussed topic of chairlift rides. Clearly, group dynalllics change when men and women are together. We agreed that we need more explora­tion as to why this is and to what point segregation can be beneficial or harmful. As Dee Byrne said, "Skiing is not black and whi te." There are lots of variables and room for individualization. Ultimately we must remember that as teachers, we owe it to om students to ask difficult questions of ourselves and consider a variety of answers. • It's Classified PSIA EDUCATION DIRECTOR: The Professional Ski In­structors of America and its Education Foundation are looking for an Education Director. This position is respon­sible fordeveloping and administering education programs and assisting members and member committees in the development and execution of education programs. The job requirements include a very strong background in the ski teaching profession and PSIA coupled with an equally strong background in education or association education management. Pay is commensurate with experience and other association education director positions in the Den­ver area. Send your resume In confidence to Education Director Position, PSIA, 133 South Van Gordon Street, Suite 101, Lakewood, CO 80228. EARN $50 FOR REFERRALS when your lead results in a rental for Skiers Accommodations of Utah. We offer 2,3,4 and 5-bedroom Townhousesatthe mouths of Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons. Contact Tom and Nancy Kronthaler for information [phone]. AN APPROACH TO SKI PREPARATION AND RACING is the title of a booklet by Alf and Alan Engen designed to as a reference guide for anyone who tunes skis. The _ booklet is available through the Alta Ski School for $9.95 SKI TEACHING AIDS PORTUGUESE AND SPANISH are available through Enor Martinez, 3508 Virginia Way, Salt Lake City, UT 841 09,801 466-9039. The aids include Spanish and Portuguese ski teaching manuals and studio­recorded audio tapes featUring native speakers INSTRUCTORS EDGE 5 B ig ideas, like big snowstorms, begin as a few little ideas or a few little snowflakes-all it takes is a seed. In the case of the 1993 Inter Pro Ski Congress to be held at The Big Mountain in April, the seed was an invitation from the PSIA­Northern Rocky Mountain division to the PSIA-Northwest division and the Canadian Ski Instructors' Alliance (CSIA) to jointly hold a symposium at The Big Mountain in the spring of 1993. The idea for an international symposium came from Mike Collins, president and CEO of The Big Mountain resort. Having just hosted the PSIA-NRM's 1990 sym­posium, Collins suggested a future project for the Northern Rocky Mountain division: invite the neighboring CSIA divisions and the Canadians to an interna­tional convention. PSIA-NW and the CSIA accepted our invitation, and the Inter Pro Ski Congress was born. A joint symposium is a natural union in that the CSIA divisions and the CSIA share not just a similar market, but the same market. In the case of The Big Mountain, a large share of its skiers board the train from Portland and Seattle for their extended ski vacations, while stay­ing closer to home for weekend skiing. American and Canadian skiers in search of good snow are as likely to cross the international border as they are to cross state or provincial borders. Clearly, we North Americans have our own "common market," and the Inter Pro Ski Congress provides a Free Trade Zone. TheCSIAagreed not only to helporganize, administer, and participate in the event, but also suggested inviting our Pacific Rim colleagues. The Pacific Rim includes New Zealand, Australian, Japanese. and South American ski instructors. "It will be an opportunity for instructors on the same chunk of land along with the other non­Europeans to get together and exchange ideas," says Nonn Crerar, chainnan of the International Committee and past president oftheCSIA. In the past, North American instl1lctors traveling to intemational ski events have been disappointed by the European dominance at such events. "We leam what we have to le;rrn and bring it back to N0I1h America," says Crerar, "but there is no exchange of ideas." It is for this reason that Crerar backs the Inter Pro Ski Congress so enthusiastically. He believes that an attitude exists on the P;U1 of the Europeans that their 6 INSTRUCTORS EDGE Inter Pro Ski Congress Debuts By PEGGY AMELON, PSIA-NRM Inter Pro Ski Congress Place The Big Mountain, Whitefish, MT Date April 13-1S, 1993 Cost Two Day (Apr. 17 -IS): $95. lifts & lodging not included. Five Day Apr.13-1S): $240. lifts & lodging not included. Lift Tickets $19.50 for participants and preregistered spouses and dependents. Accommodations information 1-S00-858-5439 Attendance may qualify for local education credits. Check with your division office. Participants are encouraged to bring spouses and children For more information Call Barb DaITow. PSIA-NW. [phone] technique is the only technique. It is inter­esting to note that with the Common Market unifying Europe, a debate has emerged over which technique, German or French, will be the official European technique. Crerar believes North American instruc­tors are light years ahead of their European counterparts in recognizing that good skiing transcends intemational borders. With such a wide international pool of participants, the 1993 Inter Pro Ski Con­gress is sure to be a distinctive sym­posium. The cUITiculum centers around learning, with participants choosing op­portunities to be a novice at one or several skiing disciplines, and various electives ranging from teaching women, kids, and seniors to personal skiing improvement and racing. Indoor sessions feature a per­sonallearning style assessment. "The event will include working ses­sions along with some social aspects. No shows!" Crerar said, referring to the evolution of Inter Ski from its original intent to provide an international ex­change of information to the choreo­graphed shows for which it is now known. "The Inter Pro Ski Congress is not in­tended to compete with or be a substitute for Inter Ski," says Anne Moran, PSIA­NRM event coordinator. "We hope that we can create a friendly exchange of ideas." The event will fulfill educational requirements. but the broader goal is to provide a place to gather and exchange knowledge in an unaffected, accessible, and receptive environment. This event is also being designed to include activities for spouses and dependents: participants are encouraged to invite them. The host of the Inter Pro Ski Congress, The Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana, also lays claim as the site of the creation of the PSIA. In May of 1961, the U.S. National Ski School held its meeting in Whitefish. Representatives of seven divisions of the U.S. Amateur Ski Instruc­tors Association and the National Ski As­sociation of America founded the PSIA, which now boasts 20,000 members. It is appropriate that the site of the crea­tion of the CSIA generates another new alliance and event. the Inter Pro Ski Con­gress. With an estimated attendance of 1.000, and an attitude that everyone has to turn left and right, the little seed that produced the snowflake promises to produce a blizzard of activities, ideas, friendships, and provide a deep base for an ongoing intell1ational event. _ • ALPINE CLINICS AND ASSESSMENTS ENTRY LEVEL CLINICS MAR3 Entry Level Clinic Deer Valley MECHANICS CLINICS MAR 10 Mechanics 1, 2, 3 SLCC, Parlors A, B, C SKIING CLINICS MAR6 MAR 24 MAR 24 Skiing 1, 2, 3 Skiing 1, 2, 3 Skiing 1, 2, 3 TEACHING CLINICS MAR4 MAR 14 MAR 14 APR 14 Teaching 1, 2, 3 Teaching 1 Teaching 1, 2, 3 Teaching 1, 2, 3 OTHER CLINICS Snowbird Brighton Park City Beaver Mtn. Elk Meadows Solitude Alta MAR 12 MAR 12 MAR 13 MAR 13 MAR 25 Ski Improvement Powder Mtn Ski Improvement Sundance Challenging Skiing Solitude Challenging Skiing Snowbasin Race Snowbird SPECIAL EVENTS APR16 APR17 APR18 Spring Clinic Spring Clinic Spring Clinic Brian Head Brian Head Brian Head MECHANICS ASSESSMENTS MAR 29 Mechanics 2, 3 SKIING ASSESSMENTS MAR 20 MAR 21 MAR 21 APR3 Skiing 2, 3 Skiing 2,3 Skiing 2,3 Skiing 2, 3 SLCC, Parlors A, B, C Pebble Creek Deer Valley Snowbird Alta TEACHING ASSESSMENTS MAR19 MAR 19 MAR 20 MAR 20 MAR 20 APR 5 Teaching 2, 3 Teaching 2, 3 Teaching 2, 3 Teaching 2, 3 Teaching 2, 3 Teaching 2, 3 Park City Solitude Nordic Valley Brian Head Jackson Hole Brighton 8:30 am 7-10:00 pm 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 1-4:00 pm 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 830 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 830 am 8:30 am PSIA INTERMOlJNTAIN DIVISION Oflin'rs: President. Craig "Roper" Pearson: Administrative V. P .. Gene Palmer: Certification V.I' .. John Diefendeli'er: Communications V.P .. Hob Ball1es: S,'crl'lary: \'ancy Perkins: Cllrrent Board Mrmhcrs: 1990-93. Rex Ames. .Iohn Diefenderfer. Chi Mellville. DOli Pratt. Allen Titensor: 1991-94. Sally Elliot. Steve .Iohnson .. Craig "Roper" Pearson. Stew Marsh. (~ene Palmer: 1992-95. Ernie AndeN)n. Bob Barnes. Shannon KipI" Instrlldor R"pre­srntali",' COlli III itt,',' Melllh,'rs: Alta: Lisa Robinson. 801 742-2016 . .Iohn Ylusscr. 801 942-0144; Brian H":III: ylark Wilder 801 586-9603. Shawna Caine. 801 677-2045; Brighton: Rick Smith 801 484-3533. Dave Strang 801 466-1344; D,','r Vall,'y: Steve Weinstein. 801 645-8077. Kim Mayhnv. 801 654-4241: Jackson Hoi,': :\athan EmerS\)!l 307 733-7%9. Terry Smith 307 • SNOWBOARD CLINICS AND ASSESSMENTS Due to the size and nature of the PSIA-I Snowboard membership we continually find it difficult to fill our calendar of events with enough at­tendees. Below you will find a few scheduled clinics and assessments for this season. The remainder of events will be scheduled after compil­ing a list of our membership's further wants and needs. MAR6 MAR6 MAR 7 MAR 7 MAR 19 APR 16-18 Teaching 2 Mechanics 2 Teaching 3 Mechanics 3 Skiing 2, 3 Spring Clinic ParkWest ParkWest Brighton Brighton Snowbird Brian Head MECHANICS ASSESSMENTS MAR 19 Mechanics II Assessment ParkWest SNOWBOARDING/SKIING ASSESSMENTS MAR 19 Skiing II Assessment ParkWest JACKSON 2-DA Y ASSESSMENT APR 3, 4 Cert 2 & 3 Assessment Jackson Hole 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am 8:30 am The Snowboard Committee wants to satisfy everyone's PSI A-I needs. Please help us by sharing this information with all your snowboarding bros., and contact: Dave Peck at 801 336-2933 (hm) or 801 649-5400 (wk) with any snowboard clinic or exam need, interests or questions. • NORDIC CLINICS AND ASSESSMENTS Due to the size and nature of our PSIA Nordic membership, we con­tinually find it difficult to set up dates for clinics and exams, and then find enough people to fill those events. This season we are scheduling a few events based upon requests from individuals and schools. The request line is open- [phone]. We will try to satisfy everyone's needs for clinics and exams, but can't promise that it will take place in your backyard, be prepared to travel to another location in the Division. CLINICS MAR 3 Entry Level Clinic MAR 15 Nordic Downhill Clinic APR 16-18 Spring Clinic ASSESSMENTS Deer Valley Snowbird Brian Head. MAR 4, 5 Certified 2 Assessment White Pines MAR 16 Certified 3 Track Certification Location TBA MAR 22. 23 Nordic Downhill Assessment Snowbird Nordic Skiers are also invited to attend any mechanics, skiing and teaching clinics as posted in the general calendar. Please check with main office for these clinics and preferred ski equipment type for skiing sessions.Thanks, Jack Bellorado, Nordic chairman [phone] 733-3715; Park City: Phil Gratz. 801 486-8279. Rick DIIIUlebacke. 801 571- 4123; P,'hhlc Crt'l'k: Scott Rockwood 208 232-7998. Donna Erickson. 208 232-76lJ: Powder MOlllltaill: Barbara Beny and Rick Beny. 801 782-5238; Snowhasin: Mike McConvill. 801 876-3110; Lesli Pant one 801 621-4527: Snowhird: Carlie Siemd. 801 944-4520. \'ona Weatherbee. 801 278-2140; Solitlld,': A. .I. Workman. 801 94.'1-0321. Daily Oliver 801 521-6835; SlIn­datH"': Scott \aIT. 801221-0905: ChaiqH'rson: Lynn Suksdorf. 801485-8423 (hm) 801461-3234 (wk and message). The Instrlldors ED(; E. the official publication of the Professional Ski Instruc­tor, of Aillclica Intcllllolintain Division. i, published five times a year at a non-member SlibSCliption rate of 515. sllbscliptions available through the Division Office. Division Otlil"': 2855 Pamela Dlive. Salt Lake City. UT 84121. INSTRUCTORS EDGE 7 COURTING cOlllillued/i"tnn5 grained movement patterns learned and perfected in a different era. Rather than attempt a complete make over. which can be very frustrating, the instructor needs to isolate one or two important changes the student can relate to and use to modify their existing style. As the baby boomers age during the i 1990s, the group 40-55 will become an even more dominant market segment in terms of the number of people and wealth. In order to attract more of these people to the sport we need to emphasize the mel­low aspects of skiing and design programs for their neds. Fear, fatigue, time to talk, wann-ups and stretching are a few of the factors instructors need to be sensitive to. Our success in courting the older skier will be an important factor in determining the prosperity of our sport in the 1990s .• LEITER continued ji'Ont 5 8. Devote time to a particular move before deciding whether it does or does not work for you. 9. To desire something does not mean to accomplish it. To perspire for it makes accomplishment a reality. 10. The man who knows "how" will al­ways be the student, but the man who knows "why" will continue to be the teacher. 11. Principles of motion take precedence over the sequence of motion. 12. Sophistication is no more than simplicity compounded. 13. Willpower is the hammer that drives action. These sayings (there are more) come from Mr. Ed Parker's American Kenpo Karate. If you use your imagination, there are plenty of applications to skiing. I use them from time to time in my clinics to drive home a point, and the are usually well accepted. Clint Carlson is president and advanced educator in PSIA-NRM. PSIA INTERMOUNTAIN DIVISION ALPINE/NORDIC/SNOWBOARD CLINIC REGISTRATION Pre-registration is required for all clinics. there will be NO registration at clinics. DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION: 14 days prior to clinic. THIS APPLICATION IS FOR A: 0 NORDIC CLINIC 0 ALPINE CLINIC 0 SNOWBOARD CLINIC NAME: ______________ ~----------------~-------------------------------------------------------- First LIst ADRESS: ____________ ~--~--------------~----------------~~----------------~~-------------- Street or Box City State ZiP CERTIFICA TI0N ST A TUS AND NUMBER ________________________________________ PHONE i\'O. ______________ _ PICK TOPIC FROM SCHEDULE _________________________________ YOUR SKI SCHOOL _________________________ _ CLINIC LOCATION __________________________________________________ DATE __________________ _ INDICA TE GROUP PREFERENCE: (IF APPLICABLE) o MODERATE o AGGRESSIVE CLINIC COST $25.00 Per one day clinic (6 hours) $_---- o Please check here if this is a new address and you wish it changed. MY EQUIPMENT MEETS DIN STANDARDS (SIGNATURE OF APPLIC ANT) __________________________________________ __ REFUND POLICY Notice before deadline -- FULL REFUND Notice after deadline. but before event -- 50% REFUND NO NOTICE GIVEN TO OFFICE BEFORE EVENT -- NO REFUND o Please check here if this is a new address and you wish it changed. MAIL TO: Nancy Perkins. Secretary. PSIA-I Division Office. 2855 Pamela Drive. Salt Lake City. UT 84121 The Instructors EDGE A publication of PSI A-I 2855 Pamela Drive Salt Lake City, Utah 84121 Opinions presented in the EDGE are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions or policies of the Professional Ski Instructors of America Intermountain Division. 8 INSTRUCTORS EDGE 04-e"ZIIZ182.t.~ NORM BUFHON 137& KINGSTON DRIVE OGDEN, UT 84'+1Z13 BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE PAID SLC,UTAH PERMIT N0.4383 INsrlU Vol. 14 No.4 President's Message By CRAIG "ROPER" PEARSON, PSIA-I PRESIDENT Greetings What a great ski season! Lots of great snow and some of the best skiing in years. That is what we will say about the 1992- 93 ski season for years to come. Those of you that could make it to Spring Clinic at Brianhead had a wonderful time with great weather, great friends and great skiing. I wish to thank John "Fender" Diefenderfer for all the hard work put in to being Certification and Education Chairperson. John weld both chairs for most of this past season. It was a great organizing effort to coordinate the clinics and assessments. John has been a great influence on our certification process and education focus. A job well done. John has asked us to name other chair­persons to Education and Certification so he can get on with life and family. We have done just that with two very com­petent and respected members of our division. Dave McCormick, Certification chairperson, and Jo Garuccio, Education chairperson. Most of us know our new chairpersons and let's give them our sup­port in any way we can. Welcome Jo and Dave! At the general membership meeting, which had good attendance this year, we gave the first official report concerning the decision made at the last Board of Directors' meeting. We made decisions based on information gathering from many members and groups of members. From individuals who took time to hone or write, or from notes taken at the fall membership meetings. Some of the decisions are as follows: Clinic maintenance requirements have been changed from 18 hours every two The Official Publication of PSIA-Intermountain SUMMER 1993 A Southern Spring was in store for everyone who headed south to Brianhead for the 1993 PSIA Intermountain Spring Clinic. Nearly 200 people attended the event and took advantage of Brianhead's hospitality. Turn to page 8 for more photos. years to 12 hours every two years. Attendance to the fall membership meet­ings will not give credit for 3 hours, al­though attendance is strongly en­couraged. The Certification and Education Master Plan has been modified as follows: Entry Level Clinic The intent of the Division is to train ski school supervisors and designated trainers of ski schools to present this clinic. The ski school should cover the $25 fee for the trainer's training. The trainer can then give this clinic to ski school members free of charge at a time that is convenient for the school. The ski school director may then recommend the instruc­tor to PSIA Intermountain for member­ship. As an option, the ski school may also employ the Division to furnish a DECL to the resort to conduct an Entry Level Clinic should they choose. As an alternative, the Division will con­tinue to calendar and offer, especially at any resorts without a Certified III trainer on staff, the Entry Level Clinic. Certified Level I The Division will require a one-day clinic that includes both skiing and mechanics and completion of a workbook. The workbook will cover teaching concepts, vocabulary, etc. which will be reviewed by a DECL and given a passing or failing score. Passing will result in gaining the Certified I status provided the National PSIA dues are paid. continued on 2 PRESIDENT continued/rom 1 Certified II and III These levels will require one six-hour clinic prior to taking the first assessment. There will be two assessments for both Certified II and III. The skiing assessment must be taken and passed prior to the teaching assessment. Mechanics will be incorporated into these two assessments. Whenever a candidate fails an assess­ment after choosing to "challenge" the need to take the corresponding clinic, the candidate will be required to take the ap­propriate clinic before retaking the ap­plicable assessment. The Division will offer Mechanics, Skiing and Teaching clinics on the Inter­mountain calendar. All clinics will be six­hour clinics. The Board recommends that candidates take these clinics before taking the assessments. The Board believes that the above chan­ges in the Education and Certification 2 INSTRUCTORS EDGE Master Plan will simplify the plan. I want to thank Chi Melville, Steve Johnson and John Diefenderfer for their time and effort as they have served on the BOD. The elected members of our BOD from the last election are: Dave Peck, ParkWest; Rex Ames, Park City; Dori Pratt, Park City; Allen Titensor, Park­West. Dave Peck is newly elected and the other members have been reelected. Jo Garuccio was appointed to complete Steve Johnson's Board term upon his resignation. This position will be up for election next year. This is a good spot to put a plug in for positions on the Board of Directors. I would like to point out, if you hadn't noticed this year, only four members 0 four division ran for the BOD. It was a very poor showing of our membership at election time. If you truly care about the decisions being made by the BOD, I sug­gest you, the member, either run for posi­tions or show strong support for persons to serve on the Board of Directors. It is a very important job in which we need good representation from the membership. Also, remember to give input and to receive information from your SIRC com­mittee member. Or communicate with one of your eleven Board members. Your input is very important. Our June Board meeting will be held for budget purposes for the 1993-94 season. We will also schedule a Board meeting sometime in mid-summer to have a work session concerning the future of PSIA-I. Thank you for your time and support. - Craig "Roper" Pearson. PSIA Takes Steps Toward Certified I PSIA is one step closer to adopting a third level of alpine certification following its national meeting June 10-14 in Lakewood, Colorado. The proposed implementation of "Cer­tified Levell" had broad support from education and certification committees which worked to identify areas of aggree­ment in establishing national standards of certification for the new status. Although Certified Level I is already an official status within Intermountain, Central, Northern Rocky Mountain and Rocky Mountain divisions, PSIA was un­able follow through with national adop­tion of the certification status following committee meetings last year. If the new certification level is officially adopted by PSIA, it will mark the first time a certification status has been imple­mented based upon national standards. Under the proposed national standards, which are also being reviewed for Cer­tified Levels II and III, divisions retain the flexibility to impose stricter standards if desired, but division standards could not fall below the national standard. PSIA Education Committee Chairper­son Jack Copland, PSIA-W, compared the national standard concept to the Universal Plumbing Code. The Universal Plumbing Code requires state codes to meet minimum plumbing standards nation wide. State codes may exceed, but not fall short of the national code. A more complete review of the PSIA national meeting is scheduled for the next issue of the EDGE. • Clinic and Assessment Schedule Questionaire You can help the PSIA-I alpine clinic and exam calendar reflect your needs by completing the following questionaire and returning it to the Division office. Please return your completed questionaire no later than July 30 ensure that your contribution has an effect In fact, why not sit down and complete this infonnation right now? Remember to place a stamp on the opposite side of this sheet, fold along the dotted line and seal with a small piece of tape. Thanks for your help! Name: Ski School: Certification Level: D Entry Level D Certified I D Certified II D Certified III Please list the assessments you plan to take in the 93-94 season. Will you need to fulfill a clinic requirement before the assessment? DYes D No Will you take any other clinics? DYes D No Please list: Will you attend the Fall Education College? DYes D No Will you attend any non-exam related education clinics? DYes D No Do you need clinic credit? DYes D No What days are best for clinics (circle)? Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun What days are best for assessments (circle)? Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Please remember to stamp this questionaire before mailing! PSIA INTERMOUNTAIN DIVISION 2855 Pamela Drive Salt Lake City, UT 84121 Post Office will not deliver without proper postage. PSIA-I Explores Ed. Foundation The Intennountain division of Profes­sional Ski Instructors of America is ex­ploring the possibility of establishing an Education Foundation. An Education Foundation is a non-profit corporation, organized exclusively to further the educational standings of its members. Money received to the Foundation from outside sources is tax deductible. It may then be allocated for, but not limited to, activities such as scholarships (to clinics, academies, etc.), research and develop­ment and program design. The following is the Educational Foun­dation mission statement from the Eastern Professional Ski Instructors Association. It encompasses what may be established as this division's goals: "The Eastern Professional Ski Instruc­tors Educational Foundation's mission is 1) to establish, develop, administer and promote educational programs (including safety and risk awareness) for teaching skiing, 2) to research new techniques and methodologies, and 3) to develop programs for special populations for its members, the ski industry and the skiing public. To support this mission, the Foun­dation must establish two way com­munication systems between the founda­tion and its membership, the industry, skiing public, PSIA-EF, and appropriate project consultants. In addition, the Educational Foundation is responsible for the marketing and public relations of the professional ski teacher. It shall also assist and support PSIA's and other industry efforts in creating public awareness regarding the professional ski teacher, safety education and the lifetime sport of skiing." The first draft of both the Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation have been com­piled by Intermountain Board member Sally Elliott. Any member with sugges­tions or the desire to become involved with the implementation of the Inter­mountain Education Foundation is urged to contact Shannon Kipp or Sally Elliott, through the divisional office. _ Education Comer By JO GARUCCIO, PSIA-I EDUCATION CHAIRPERSON As the newly appointed Education Executive, let me reinforce Dave's thanks and gratification for John Diefenderfer who managed to somehow keep both certifica­tion and education afloat in the division. Hopefully I can fill 1/2 his shoes! Before offering a brief outline of the changes to come, I would like take a moment to clarify the goal and objectives set forth by our current Master Plan. The primary goal of PSIA-I is to motivate (although the best motivation comes from within yourself), educate and certify its members. Originally, PSIA merely certified its membership, and education was left up to individual ski schools. In an effort to promote increased success at exams, PSIA (all divisions have evolved similarly) also began to educate, requiring clinic time outside respective ski schools. That is not to say that ski schools were not capable of educating their staff. It was merely an effort designed to increase consistency within the organization and offer members a chance to broaden their knowledge base. It would be presumptuous of either entity to think that only they should be sole educators in a sport requiring complex motor skills. Our objectives, as stated in the "blue book", were to increase participation at all events and to assure high quality and consistent service to the industry. I find both of those statements to be valid although our implementation design may change somewhat. Hopefully, participation will increase due to the quality of the experience and not just because we increased the requirements. As far as service to the industry goes, we can only maintain a consistently good product if we constantly re-evaluate our methods and information. Change is always on the horizon. We are now entering our third season under the "new" Education/Certification Master Plan. The Ma~ter Plan is an innovative departure from the previous years, although it has experienced a few growing pains since its initial implementation. However, change is an ongoing affair, and members of the ed/cert committee and the BOD have recently addressed concerns voiced by the membership. The most significant response pertains to the clinic requirements necessary for certification. The major source of dissatisfaction was primarily directed at the amount of time and money spent on the education and certification process. Although the BOD does not feel that this experience should by any means be shortened, they have shifted some of the training responsibilities at the Entry Level and Level I back to the ski schools. Although the division will still offer a couple of Entry Level clinics, most instructors will be able to obtain credit for the clinic within their own ski school. Ski School personnel (usually a staff trainer) who have attended a divisional training session will conduct the clinics. Level I candidates will be required to attend only one divisional clinic although all three will be offered. This plan should make the process more accessible to new members of the division. At Levels II and III, one clinic (specifics to be announced by fall) will be required before a candidate can tackle certification. If the candidate fails to qualify in any one area, he/she will then have to take that particular divisional preparatory clinic. However, it is strongly recommended that anyone wishing to improve their profes­sional status attend as many clinics as possible. A broader based education only assures a sound background of knowledge. In addition, clinic credit requirements have been reduced to 12 hours every two years. Another important issue involves the consistency between education and certifica­tion. Our original plan was based on the philosophy that those who understand the sport and can demonstrate proficiency in the required skill areas should have little difficulty with the evaluation process. I personally believe that this statement still holds true. However, in some instances, infonnation dispensed at the clinics did not continued 011 10 INSTRUCTORS EDGE 5 Intennountain Certification Comer the education and certification programs. And congratulations, Jo Garuccio. Her appointment as Education Chair gives this membership a team player who's passion for· ski teaching matches her extensive experience. Education and Certification will continue to work on this happy mar­riage. Sorry Rodger. By DAVE McCORMICK, CERTIFICA nON CHAIRPERSON PSIA-I is fortunate to have created a strong, very workable education and cer­tification framework. We are also for­tunate to have many dedicated people doing good things and adding depth to this association of ski instructors. I would like to help us keep moving along in this same direction. This report will update the past season, offer some observations and sug­gest some possibilities for the future of the education and certification programs from a philosophical standpoint. How­ever, I can sum up my report by saying the quality of the education and certification process is in the membership's hands. We are what we do. On March 28 the Board of Directors voted to approve the appointment of a new Certification Chair. John Diefenderfer has stepped down from the position of Educa­tion and Certification Chairman. On behalf of the entire membership, let me thank John for carrying the work load as both Education and Certification chair­man. He thoughtfully guided us through the education and certification master plan revisions this season and left us with a well-planned outline to build upon for future revisions. His work shows a sincere concern for the needs of ski instructors. His contributions were inspired by a simple vision: support the membership's professional development, encourage their involvement and cultivate their ownership in the organization. This vision is a fundamental premise of PSIA-1. Fender, let me highlight a few of your contributions to the education and cer­tification process. Among others, these will continue to be part of the certification program and will help make this transition smooth. - The creation of DECL "executives" and their "assistants" for administering educational clinics and certification as­sessments. - The formation of the present Education and Certification committee. - Opening up communication lines to a wide variety of groups within the mem­bership to form a consensus on ideas 6 INSTRUCTORS EDGE and programs. - Invitations to ski schools without DECL representation to attend DECL Training events. PSIA-I members have higher quality Education and Certification programs be­cause Fender was able to empower people by delegating responsibility and stimulate participation of the membership. As the newly appointed Certification Chair, I am extremely excited for this opportunity to serve you and continue in this positive direction. Already I have received a great deal of support and en­couragement from many of you. Thank you for your confidence. My personal goal is to advance the status and improve the expertise of PSIA-I members through The Need For Change I have had the opportunity to discuss with some of you Education and Certifica­tion issues. There has also been input from various groups on educate formats and content. Some concerns are that the present certification format is too costly in time and lost wages for many instructors and some directors. Another is the feeling there are major inconsistencies between education clinics and certification assess­ments. And yet another concern centers around the meaning of PSIA-I certifica­tion - just what does certification repre­sent? A basic working philosophy for the Certification Revision Update This is an overview of the revisions to the Education and Certification Master Plan for the 1993-94 ski season. There will be cost changes as well as format changes to Certification Assessments. These changes are a compromise to the master plan in its original form. They reflect an awareness by its creators to have to revise the plan as time goes by. We have considered the needs of instructors and directors alike and from this input have packaged a practical certification format without sacrificing the standards of certification status. However, it must be understood that standards for certification will continue to rise as a result of PSIA-I's delivery of this system and each member's personal motivation and commitment to professional develop­ment. This premise is the essence of the Education and Certification Master Plan. Three years ago PSIA-I produced a document called the Education and Certifica­tion Master Plan. The master plan outlines the process of education and certification for Intermountain and was a designed to, " ... contribute to the development of a program that fosters growth from a sound foundation, rather than a reactionary program with only year to year goals" We were in need of an integrated education and certification system that would be passed on to "the next person" in tact instead of disassem bled and rebuilt with a new face. The Education and Certification Master Plan lays the foundation for such a system. Thank you PJ and all who were involved for your vision and hard work in making it happen. Because of this group effort we have established the foundation for a long term program which will support the membership's professional growth for seasons to come. This is a practical infrastructure allowing us to follow our mission statement, "To motivate, educate and certify the members of PSIA-I." We are still however, in somewhat of a reactionary mode because the Ed. Cert. Master Plan is still relatively new and was, at the time, a radical change from how the rest of PSIA certified instructors. What we are "reacting" to are our own innovations (such as our format and the use of stated objectives in both clinics and assessments) and input from members who are at the receiving end of clinics and assessment~ as well as those who administer education and certification programs. It has been a healthy exchange. I have learned that the master plan's biggest contribution to our organization is how it allows the membership to shape their educational system with their own voice. Ongoing revision will continue to be part Certification committee has been formu­lated from these discussions and written documents. There are changes to the education and certification programs now underway addressing these and other is­sues. (See accompanying article, Cer­tification Revision Update.) A Vision As Certification Chair, my intentions are to develop a clearly stated theme which we can all rally around as a common vision for improving the ed./cert. process. This theme will be the driving force be­hind any further revisions to the education and certification program. It will allow us to solicit input from the membership and address all concerns about PSIA-I cer­tification. There are stated goals and ob­jectives in place which presently give us good direction. But encouraging coopera­tion and harmony by agreeing on a simply stated, fundamental definition of who PSIA-I is and what we do can help. It can help us produce more effective education and certification programs which develop professional ski teachers who are more valuable to customers and managers. Consider this next statement for such a theme. It was inspired by PSIA-I's Article of Incorporation drafted in 1953. With this statement we are revisiting our roots as an association of ski teachers. "The Certification Committee's primary pur­pose is to support the membership's professional development by: 1) Continuing tointegratePSIA-I educa­tion and certification programs and 2) Strengthening the status of PSIA-I cer­tification in the eyes of the skiing public, ski area management, the members and the industry as a whole." Why Integrate Education and Certification? Continuing to integrate Education and Certification programs is a key goal and already a major premise of our Education of the system as long as there is input which reflects the changing needs and expectations of the membership and their customers. To date there have been many groups contributing to these recent revisions. The following is a list that highlights some of the certification assessment changes for the 1993-94 ski season. It is meant to wet your appetite. Although these changes lack detail at this time, a final draft will be ready for distribution in the early fall. The proposal for these changes was passed by the Board of Directors at a March 28 meeting in Salt Lake City. These revisions are a compilation of comments and suggestions from: - Fall membership meetings - Clinic and Assessment evaluation forms - Ski Instructor Representative Committee - Ski School Directors Committee - Past Presidents Committee - Education and Certification Committees - Board of Directors meeting 3-28-93 For the Entry level, the ski school director will take responsibility for presenting this clinic any time convenient for the instructor and the school. Each school will designate a director, supervisor or trainer to attend a training session given by the Education and Certification body which prepares that individual to administer an Entry level clinic. The Entry Level Clinic will be free of charge when taken in this fashion. Once the clinic has been conducted, the ski school director will sign the instructors PSIA-I application for membership. The ski school will pay the $25.00 fee for the trainer's training session and for the cost of the accompanying materials video tapes and other information as packaged by the division). Other options for obtaining PSIA-I Entry Level are: - Ski schools can pay PSIA-I to send a DECL to the resort to administer an Entry Level Clinic. - PSIA-I will continue to calendar and offer the Entry Level Clinic - especially at resorts without a Certified Level III trainer on staff. contiued on 10 and Certification master plan. Education and certification are the two interdepen­dent parts to the process of professional development and growth. What does certification stand for in this context? The "process of certification" is how we validate our educational program. You can't have one without the other and call it learning. During the certification process the demonstration of new found knowledge and skill is proof that growth has taken place and a standard met. Effec­tive educational clinics followed by valid certification assessments is the same as checking for understanding in our teach­ing model. Why Strengthen the status of PSIA-I Certification? What else does certification stand for? PSIA-I certification is also a credential or accreditation. It identifies a level of com­petence and status as an educator. This accreditation must constantly be evaluated and up-graded if it is to be con­sidered a valuable asset to managers and customers alike. In fact, as certification status becomes more reputable to these two groups, more people will be able to make their living as part time or full time professional ski instructors. Certification is an accreditation to promote a high standard of professionalism to the in­dustry, is. skiing public, ski area managers, ski school directors, manufac­turers, the media and ourselves Certifica­tion is two things it is a validation of our educational programs and, it is an ac­creditation which identifies a high stand­ard of professionalism. These are a few ideas to keep us going down the road of evolution. Together with our new Education Chair, Jo Garuccio, there will be a unified effort to provide a complete learning cycle to certification candidates as well as to all members with other professional development and in­volvement needs. We are an association of ski teachers with a shared interest in building our reputation and promoting our expertise to the ski industry. One avenue we can use to reach this goal is the education and certification process. By listening to the membership, building consensus and keeping abreast of industry standards, our education and certification process will continue to improve and mature as will our place in the sport of skiing. I look forward to hearing from and working with all of you. • INSTRUCTORS EDGE 7 A Southern Spring: 8 INSTRUCTORS EDGE PSIA Intermountian went south this spring into the open arms of a hospitable and social Brian­head Resort. Man-made bumps and race courses, naturally-made coral reef and com, and an as­sortment of pin gear, snowboards and alpine skis helped instructors romp in the summer sun. INSTRUCTORS EDGE 9 UPDATE continuedfrom 7 Certified Levell To obtain Certified Level I status, a can­didate will be required to attend a one day Mechanics and Skiing clinic. This clinic will be an indoor and on snow event. In addition to this clinic, the candidate will complete a take home workbook which covers teaching concepts, vocabulary, etc. and helps the candidate meet the standards and objectives for that level. Certified Level I status will be acquired once the clinic requirement is satisfied, workbook is reviewed by PSIA-I and ASIA NA­TIONAL dues ($23) are paid. Costs breakdown Certified I Clinic 1992-93 Mechanics Clinic $15 Skiing Clinic $25 Teaching Clinic - $25 Take Home Test $10 Total- $75 Total days - 2 1/2 1993-94 Mechanics Skiing Clinic - $25 Workbook $20 Total- $45 Total days - 1 Certified levels II & III To obtain Certified Level II & III status, a candidate will be required to attend a one day Mechanics and Skiing Clinic, a one day Mechanics and Skiing Assessment and a one day Teaching Assessment in this order. The PSIA-I events calendar will offer mechanics, skiing and teaching clinics to support the candidates training for cer­tification. Candidates are encouraged to take these clinics before an assessment. In the event a candidate fails to meet the standard during an assessment, the can­didate will be required to take the cor­responding clinic before retaking that as­sessment. Cost breakdown for Cert. Level II & III clinic and Assessment 1992-93 Mechanics Clinic - $15 Mechanics Assessment - $15 Skiing Clinic - $25 continued on 16 10 INSTRUCTORS EDGE Mono-Ski Teacher Breaks Ground By MEECHE WHITE, PCHSA On December 5, 1992 Scott Graves was hired as a ski instructor by the Park City Ski Area. This may not seem so unusual, since they hire more than 50 new instruc­tors each year - however, Scott Graves is T-4 paraplegic. Scott has become the first instructor of non-disabled as well as disabled skiers who uses a mono-ski, in the United States and probably world­wide. Scott began his skiing career in West Virginia, following a vacation with some friends who skied while he sat by the fire. The following year, he returned and dis­covered the sit-ski and the beginning of what has become a career. After only two seasons as a sit-skier, he qualified for the National Handicapped Championships and the following season went on to be­come one of the top ten sit-skiers in the country. After spending five years in a sit-ski, Scott graduated to the newly developed mono-ski. The mono-ski is designed to allow paraplegics the freedom to ski unassisted. EDUCATION continued from 3 It consists of a seat mounted on a frame with a shock absorber to allow a smooth up and down motion. This entire system is then mounted on a single ski. The skier uses outriggers (crutches with ski tips) to enhance balance and initiate turns. Ex­perienced mono-skiers are able to ski any terrain on the mountain including racing, skiing mogUls, and catching air. Park City Handicapped Sports Associa­tion (PCHSA) provides ski lessons for disabled individuals at the Park City Ski Area. PCHSA hired Scott as the equip­ment manager following his three-year commitment as a participant and volun­teer beginning in 1987. The first member of the Park City Disabled Ski Team, last year he received his Level I National Handicapped Sports (OHS) certification, a Professional Ski Instructors Association recognized certification. Scott is currently part of the Park City Ski School staff which implements the alpine ski program for Park City Handicapped Sports As­sociation. For additional information on any of Park City Handicapped Sports' programs, call the PCHSA office at (80 1) 649-3991. _ coincide with the information that was actually evaluated during the exam. The end result was an experience that ranked low in its educational value and one that left a few very dissatisfied customers (in this case, the membership) in it's wake. At this very moment, the executive committee is taking the necessary steps to alleviate those inconsistencies, and bring the membership a product of the highest quality. Clinic outlines will receive a face-lift and exams will reflect the information presented in those clinics. However, it is extremely important that all candidates realize that these clinics are only part of the necessary preparation. Success at an exam requires study and practice time beyond any clinic. Again, it is advisable that candidates gather as much information as possible and from several different sources. We will also address the Certified Level III instructor who has, for the most part, had very little to choose from in the area of clinic topics. Check the calendar for those special events and read the EDGE for descriptions!. At the moment, I have only highlighted the major changes. The Executive Committee and the BOD will spend the summer months working towards their implementation. Please St.1Y tuned to the EDGE for further updates and the 1993-94 calendar. Hope you all have a great summer and see you in October. We will probably be able to begin the season on the north facing "glaciers" in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Its snowing as I write! _ 1992-93 PSIA Intennountain Instructor Status Changes ALPINE CERTIFIED III KERRY BROCK STEPHEN CONNOR SUNDANCE SUNDANCE ORNELLA DALLA-BONA SOLITUDE GRAYSON DAVIS REID DICKSON PAUL FIREMAN VANCE FORSGREN JOHN FRANDSEN RICK GOODMAN WILLIAM IRVING LEROY JOHNSON FRANK KRUSE MARK MURRAY JOHN MUSSER MARY JO NYMAN ADRIAN POPOVICI ANTHONY RITTER JEAN ROUSH JAMES RUSSELL DA VID STALEY MAREE TOMCZYK DAVID WELSH SNOWBIRD SUNDANCE SUNDANCE GRAND T ARGHEE DEER VALLEY PARK CITY JACKSON HOLE ELF ENGEN PARK CITY PARK CITY ELF ENGEN SUNDANCE SOLITUDE SNOWBIRD DEER VALLEY JACKSON HOLE PARK CITY PARKWEST SNOWBIRD DAVID YOVANOVICH SOLITUDE ALPINE CERTIFIED II JACKSON HOLE ALPINE CERTIFIED I DANNY ALFRED SUNDANCE M. SHAUNA APGOOD SOLITUDE RUSSELL BAKES RICHARD BENCH LEN BERNSTEIN POWDER MTN. PARKWEST BRIGHTON NECHELE BRADSHAW BEA VER MTN. RONALD BRIGHT JOHN BUFFING TON STAN CARPER STUART CARVER LEN ORE COHEN PARK CITY BRIAN HEAD PARKWEST POWDERMTN. PARK CITY CHANDLER COLEMAN SNOWBIRD KATHLEEN CROWLEY JACKSON HOLE LANCE DARLEY BEAVER MTN. WILLIAM DAVIS ELK MEADOWS DANA ELLE PEBBLE CREEK PATRICIA FERNANDO ELK MEADOWS LARA FISHER DEER V ALLEY MARK FISHER DEER V ALLEY WILLIAM FRANKS PARKWEST MICHELLE HAMILTON POWDER MTN. DARREL HAMPTON MELISSA HASSELL LLOYD HESLIP NOELHESLIP PAMELA HlNCY ROBERT AMMANN TROY HOUSTON TERRY BRATTAIN GRAND TARGHEE ERIC JONES POWDERMTN. SUNDANCE BRIAN HEAD BRIAN HEAD PARK CITY BRIAN HEAD DEER VALLEY DEER VALLEY PARKWEST SUNDANCE PARK CITY RONALD BRIGHT PARK CITY W. BRANTLEY BURNS GRAND TARGHEE REBECCA GENOVESE DEER VALLEY CONSTANCE GLICK JEFF JONES JACKSON HOLE SNOW BASIN C. JOHN KILLEN POWDER MTN. ELVIN KREIDER SNOWBIRD WILLIAM MC GINNIS DEER VALLEY ANTHONY MORGAN JACKSON HOLE JOHN MORTENSEN SNOW BASIN ROBERT MULDER DEBORAH MYERS MARY LOU MYLET KERIOAKS MRKPOIRIER SEAN PORTER PAUL SCHNEIDER STEVEN SHAP ARD JOHN SMITH, JR. DEBBIE TARBOTON STACYTHORUM DEER VALLEY BRIGHTON DEER VALLEY SUNDANCE SNOWBIRD PARK CITY PARK CITY PARK CITY PARKWEST POWDERMTN. SNOWBIRD KELLER TOMLINSON PARK CITY DANA JOHNSON JAMES JONES DA VID JORGENSEN CRAIG LEIBOWITZ MICHELLE LINDBERG SNOWBIRD BARBARA LINDEMAN POWDER MTN. DA VID LOCHHEIM JANET MARGULIES SOLITUDE PARKWEST BERNADETTE MARTINELLI PARKWEST BARBARA MC CONVILL SNOW BASIN WILLIAM MC GINNIS DEER VALLEY STEPHEN MC KA Y WADE MILLER KATHERINE MINER CONNIE MORGAN BILL MORRIS JA Y OLEARAIN MIKE OLSEN KIRSTIN OLSON TERESA ORTIZ HELGA P A WELKA JOHANNA PERKIN M. ANN PETERSEN TOM PITNER MIKE PLANTE NORDIC V ALLEY PEBBLE CREEK BRIGHTON POWDERMTN. PARK CITY POWDER MTN. SNOWBIRD PARK CITY POWDERMTN. SNOW BASIN SNOW BASIN BRIGHTON BRIGHTON PARK CITY SUSIE RADTKE B. J. REED SCOTT RICHARDS SHARI ROBERTS DAVID SCHMIDT SNOW BASIN GREA T AMERICAN PARKWEST SUNDANCE POWDERMTN. JAMES SCHULZ, JR. JACKSON HOLE TRACEY SILVERMAN JACKSON HOLE ANDREW SPENCER PARK CITY LAKA Y STEPHENSON DON STEVENSON HOLLY STOCK JOHN STRUTHERS JAMES SULLIVAN DEBBIE TARBOTON CHERYL TILARO FRANK TILARO STACY THORUM ARTHUR TRAIGER MARK TRUMP DUSTIN TUCKER MARK TUCKER CARRIE TURRILL BRIGHTON BRIGHTON POWDERMTN. KELLY CANYON PARK CITY POWDERMTN. SNOW BASIN SNOW BASIN SNOWBIRD BRIGHTON GRAND TARGHEE BRIAN HEAD PARKWEST BRIAN HEAD ROGER WARBURTON SOLITUDE RICHARD WHEELER PARK CITY KURT WHITLOCK SCOTT WHITNEY RHYS WILLIAMS GRANT WILLIS PETER WUERSLIN KARA YOST JOHN GEIGER BRIGHTON BRIGHTON PARKWEST PARKWEST JACKSON HOLE PEBBLE CREEK NORDIC V ALLEY SNOWBOARD CERTIFIED III RON BAKER JUNTIN CRAIL LEE LEIBFARTH MARIA MC NUTTY JUDITH RODGERS VAIL (DUAL MBR) BRIGHTON PARKWEST SNOWBIRD PARKWEST SNOWBOARD CERTIFIED II TOMAS AGUIRRE DON COFER JEAN FOLGER BILL GAY JOE GLAZER DANIEL GRUNES THOMAS MILLS JOHN SUMMERS continued on 12 SNOWBIRD PARKWEST PARKWEST PARKWEST JACKSON HOLE JACKSON HOLE PARKWEST POWDERMTN. INSTRUCTORS EDGE 11 STATUS continued from 11 SNOWBOARD CERTIFIED I TOMAS AGUIRRE SNOWBIRD JACKIE GOSSETT BRIGHTON MIKE JOHNSTON BRIGHTON DAVID MADETZKE BRIGHTON MATT ROHRER BRIGHTON JOHN SUMMERS POWDERMTN. KURT WHITLOCK BRIGHTON NORDIC CERTIFIED III J. SCOTT MC GEE TRACK-GRANDTARGHEECC ELIZABETH DAVY TRACK-GRANDTARGHEECC ROBIN FOLWEILER TRACK-JACKSON CC DONALD WADSWORTH TRACK-JACKSON CC NORDIC CERTIFIED II DA VID FIELDS TRACK-POCATELLO P&Rec. COLLEEN HOFFMANN NORDIC DOWNHILL-WHITE PINES JENNIFER HUDSON NORDIC DOWNHILL-WHITE PINES JOAN SCHREINGRABBER NORDIC DOWNHILL-WHITE PINES JESSIE WHITMORE NORDIC DOWNHILL-WHITE PINES CHRIS WILHELM TRACK-POCATELLO P&Rec. NORDIC CERTIFIED I LISA ASHBY POCATELLO P&Rec. RUSSELL FOSTER POCATELLO P&Rec. COLLEEN HOFFMAN WHITE PINES JENNIFER HUDSON WHITE PINES LON KENNARD HOMESTEAD CC LIZMCCOY WHITE PINES STEPHEN NEINER POCATELLO P&Rec. RICHARD NELSON POCATELLO P&Rec. BILL PETERSON PEBBLE CREEK JOAN SCHREINGRABBER WHITE PINES STEPHEN WING HOMESTEAD CC 12 INSTRUCTORS EDGE AIf Engen Ski School at Alta Initiates Instructor Hall of Fame In a special ceremony at the Red Lion Hotel on April 23, 1993, several individuals were inducted into the' newly established AlfEngen Ski School Hall of Fame. Those receiving this honors were Junior Bounous, AlfEngen, Bill Lash, Max Lundberg, and D. Wayne "Uncle Wayne" Nichol (posthumously). The idea for creating such a hall of fame originated due to the vast heritage and history which the ski school has played over the years. Its purpose is to identify and honor past and present members of the ski school who have made a significant contribution to the ski school and the ski teaching profession. To qualify for selection consideration, individuals nominated must have met one or more of the following criteria: • Played an integral part in the development of the Alf Engen Ski School and the Professional Ski Instructors of America. • Having a minimum of twenty years ski teaching experience in the ski school at Alta. • Having displayed the highest qualities of a ski teaching professional and having demonstrated exceptional ski instruction services and customer satisfaction. • Having been a member of a national ski team and or demonstration team. • Having been selected to either a state and for national USSA or PSIA Ski Hall of Fame. The individuals inducted truly meet the criteria outlined and have distinguished records in the ski industry. The excerpts from their award certificates present brief outlines of their accomplishments. AlfM. Engen Ski School Director 1949-1989 Alf and his wife, Evelyn, started the Alf Engen Ski School in 1949 following his coaching the United States Olympic team in 1948. While director, Alf pioneered many ski instruction concepts and is especially remembered for the explosive way he skied the Alta powder. He is known as the father of the Alta powder technique which continues as the standard within the ski teaching profession. Mike Korologos, a prominent sportswriter, called Alf "The Indomitable Snowman." Many well known ski personalities got their start by working for rand learning from the master ski teacher, Alf Engen. D. Wayne "Uncle Wayne" Nichol 1910 - 1989 Ski Instructor 1948-1989 Wayne Nichol started his skiing and teaching career almost at the same time. In 1940, Wayne constructed a darkroom for Dick Durrance, who was then the Alta Ski School Director, in exchange for ski lessons. Following each lesson from Dick, Wayne would gather his brothers together and teach them what he had learned. Thus a skiing and teaching career had begun. Aif Engen, Jack Nickel (Wayne Nichol's son), Junior Bounous, Bill Lash and Max Lundberg receive recognition and induction into the Alf Engen Ski School Hall of Fame. Junior Bounous Assistant Director 1949-1959 Junior Bounous joined the Alf Engen Ski School in the fall of 1949 as "Head Instructor." At that time, the ski school was comprised of three people: Alf Engen, his wife, Evelyn, and Junior. He spent the next ten years teaching at Alta helping to develop powder skiing techni­ques and teaching methods. In 1950, Junior was named Assistant Ski School Director, a post he kept until he left Alta. Junior accepted the position of ski School director at Sugar Bowl in northern California in 1958, where he contributed greatly to the development of ski teach­ing and the growth of PSIA. In 1967, Junior returned to Utah to direct the ski school at Sundance, known in those days as Timphaven Ski Area. In 1971, Junior was selected to become the first Ski School Director at Snowbird, a position he held for 20 years before accepting a promotion to Director of Skiing in 1991. Bill Lash Ski Instructor 1950 - 1961 B ill Lash came to Alta and joined the AlfEngen Ski School in 1950. During the years he was in the ski school, Bill played an instrumental role in the development of professional ski instruction, both regionally and nationally. He wrote the original Articles of Incorporation and by­laws for the Intermountain Ski Associa­tion and created its first working board of directors. Bill also served nine years as the first president of the Professional Ski Instructors Association «PSIA). In the early 1950s, Bill started a college level "Method of Teaching Skiing" program at the University of Utah and directed the on-snow activities. This action provided the necessary instructor base to support the Deseret News Ski School, which is the longest running community ski school in the nation and which continues under the direction of the Alf Engen Ski School. Max O. Lundberg Assistant Director 1964 - 1986 Max Lundberg began skiing in the Deseret News Ski School in 1949 with much assistance provided by his uncle, D. Wayne Nichol. When he joined the AlfEngen Ski School in 1962, Max had little or no ski instruction experience, but his determination and natural athletic ability, combined with a very pleasant personality, made him an almost instant success. He rapidly gained the respect of the instructor staff at Alta as an outstand­ing skier and teacher. In addition, instruc­tors from allover the intermountain area were likewise hearing about Max and his accomplishments. INSTRUCTORS EDGE 13 1992/93 Instructor of the Year Selections The Instructor of the Year award was es­tablished by PSIA-I to recognize out­standing ski teachers in the Intermountain region. The program was designed to per­mit an instructor to be selected by a peer selection process at the home resort. Con­gratulations to the following individuals for the 1992-93 ski season. DAVID CRANS ELF ENGEN GLORIA WILLIAMS ELF ENGEN LESGRIFFIN BRIAN HEAD 1USTIN CRAIL BRIGHTON KARL LUND DEER VALLEY DA VID DUTSON ELK MEADOWS GEORGE MOSHER GRAND TARGHEE 8.1. REED GREAT AMERICAN SUSAN HEDDEN JACKSON HOLE PAM BYINGTON KELLY CANYON TATE HENDERSON NORDIC VALLEY MARY LUNDELL PARK CITY JUDITH RODGERS PARKWEST HOMER SEMONS PEBBLE CREEK CHRIS WILHELM POCOTELLO REC. PROGRAM DEBBIE TARBOTOM POWDERMTN. LORI BRADBURY SNOW BASIN JERRY THORESON SNOWBIRD COLEEN FLOYD SOLITUDE 1A Y MARQUISS SUNDANCE PSIA Intermountain Members Dominate USSA Legends Class The USSA Utah snow board series was completed March 14th with a slalom at Brighton. PSIA-I was well represented in the legends class (ages 35 to 50) with a one-two finish by Allen Titensor and Dan Cofer. This finish put Titensor, PSIA-I and me, administrative v.p., in the position of being the overall season champion in both slalom and giant slalom with Cofer in second place in both disciplines. The lads are having a good time snow board racing. I'd challenge other PSIA-I members to get involved. - Dave Peck, snow board supervisor ParkWest Ski School. 14 INSTRUCTORS EDGE PSIA-I Board Approves Changes in Ed/Cert Master Plan for 1993-94 By STEW MARSH, COMMUNICATIONS v. P. The PSIA-I Board of Directors at their March meeting voted on recommenda­tions from various committees to change several areas of the current Education and Certification Master plan. PSIA-I has been on the leading edge of skiing and teaching for many years. The implementation of the Ed/Cert plan gave new impetus and life to the levels of cer­tification and education. Other divisions as welt as National began to look at our plan and see that the direction was posi­tive and beneficial. input from many people allowed the program to grow. Such growth would produce inevitable chan­ges. After two years and some minor modifications it was decided that changes would be needed to make the program more beneficial for the members. Follow­ing is a synopsis of the change that will occur during the 1994 season. Entry Level Clinic This will be the responsibility of each ski school. The division will train designated trainers within each ski school. The ski school will cover the $25.00 cost for this training. The clinic will be free to all in­terested individuals and given at times convent to the ski school. The ski school director will then recommend that in­dividual for membership to PSIA-I. As an option, the ski school may also pay the division to send a DECL to the area to run an Entry Level Clinic. Another option is that the division will continue to calendar and offer this clinic. Certified Level I A significant change occurs with this level. A ONE day clinic will include both skiing and mechanics. The completion of a WORKBOOK will also be required. The workbook will cover teaching con­cepts, vocabulary, etc. which will help the Level 1 candidate meet the standard/ob­jective expected at this level. The com­pleted workbook will be reviewed by a DECL and given a passing or failing score. Passing will result in gaining the Certified Levell status providing the Na­tional PSIA dues are paid. Certified Level II and III There was considerable discussion at this junction. Two proposals were given to the board for discussion. Basically, it was felt that there were too many clinics or hoops for the candidate to go through in one season. Although the original intent was to slow the certification process down this process did not occur among the can­didates. To remedy the situation the board decided to reduce the number to ONE MANDATORY six-hour clinic. There will be two assessments for both Level II and III. The skiing assessment must be taken and passed prior to the teaching assessment. Mechanics will be incor­porated into these two assessments. How­ever, if a candidate fails to qualify in a particular assessment the individual will be required to take a corresponding clinic prior to reassessing. The costs will be similar to the past years, but due to fewer required clinics the overall cost will be less to the member. A detailed analysis will appear in the fall issue of the EDGE. It is the intention of the Board to listen to the concerns of the members. This has taken place with the modification of the Master Plan. The Education chairperson and committee is continuing to create bet­ter clinics for the Advanced Educator. Just remem ber the committee needs your input to develop these clinics as well as in­creased participation. Take part this up­coming season to not only ski together but to share together. • When You're a JET ... PSIA Intermountain member Chris Kat­zenberger was selected as coach of the PSIA Junior Education Team during PSIA's national meeting June 12 in Lakewood, Colorado. Chris is a two-term member of the JETs and a supervisor for the Snowbird Ski School. Congratulations Katz. The next hiring clinic for the JETs is scheduled to be held in the spring. Addi­tional information will be available in a future edition of the EDGE • Common Features of Our Mountain Environment Skills of balanCing resources in our mountain resort environment. Did you know that PSIA has an Environ­mental Committee? This committee at­tempts to integmte the concepts of en­vironmental awareness with the needs of ski resorts and instructors. The following information is taken from an Environmen­tal Committee handout produced with support from Post and United Airlines. The handout is designed to coordinate with a video the committee has produced which seeks to explain how the manage­ment activities of ski resorts can be con­ducted in environmentally responsible ways. COMMON FEATURES OF OUR MOUNTAIN ENVIRONMENT NATURAL FEATURES MOUNTAIN RESORT NEEDS From the PSIA-I Environmental Committee Purity Drought Floods Rain, snow & ice Wetlands I Fog Tmpped air Wind Jet streams WATER AIR Dams Snow making Consumption Recreation Irrigation Clean air I Monitor emissions Consumption Many ski areas have created and developed programs to benefit the natural environment of the ski area. It is important to the ski industry that we, in ski school, are informed and knowledgeable of the many beneficial environmental programs the ski industry performs in the normal course of doing business. Part of a ski teacher's role is to help our peers and students be aware of all the natural and man created features (mountain resort needs) which make up the total mountain experience. Through this increased awareness, we will better appreciate our ski areas' ecology and Focus on Our Mountain Environment. r Food chain WASTE I Fires Packaging I Disposal of human & manmade waste Reduce, reuse & recycle Composts & bacteria r Pristine I Rivers, lakes & streams VISUAL Trails I Walkways Glacier & volcanic formations Parking lots Lodges, facilities & housing r Mamals, fish & birds WILDLIFE Sharing of space I Use of habitat areas for recreation This environmental education tool is modeled after PSIA's Common Features and Skills models. It is designed for you to add ideas and features which are unique to your mountain, and share them with fellow ski teachers and students. I Floods LAND Rivers Soil management I Reshaping/dividing Seasonal changes of natural areas Earthquakes PSIA INTERMOUNTAIN DIVISION Officers: President, Craig "Roper" Pearson; Administrative V. P., Gene Palmer; Certification Chairperson, Dave McConnick; Communications V.P., Stew Marsh; Education Chairperson, 10 Garuccio; Secretary: Nancy Perkins; Cur· rent Board Members: 1991-94, Sally Elliot, Craig "Roper" Pearson, Stew Marsh, Gene Palmer; 1993-94, Jo Garuccio; 1992-95, Ernie Anderson, Bob Barnes, Shannon Kipp. 1993-96, Rex Ames, Dave Peck, Dori Pratt, Allen Titensor; Instructor Representative Committee Members: Alta: Lisa Robin­son, 801 742-2016,10hn Musser, 801942-0144; Brian Head: Mark Wilder 801 586-9603, Shawna Caine, 801677-2045; Brighton: Rick Smith 801 484-3533, Dave Strang 801466-1344; Deer Valley: Steve Weinstein, 801645-8077, Kim Mayhew, 801654-4241; Jackson Hole: Nathan Emerson 307 733-7969, Terry Smith 307 733-3715; Park City: Phil Gratz, 801486-8279, Rick Dunnebacke, 801571-4123; Pebble Creek: Scott Rockwood 208 232-7998, Donna Erickson, 208232-7613; Powder Mountain: Barbara Berry and Rick Berry, 801 782- 5238; Snowbasin: Mike McConvill, 801 876-3110; Les1i Pantone 801 621- 4527; Snowbird: Carlie Siemei, 801 944-4520, Nona Weatherbee, 801 278- 2140; Solitude: A. 1. Workman, 801 943-0321, Daily Oliver 801 521-6835; Sundance: Scott NaIT, 801 221-0905; Chairperson: Lynn Suksdorf, 801 485- 8423 (hm) 801461-3234 (wk and message). The Instructors EDG E, the official publication of the Professional Ski Instruc­tors of America IntennoWltain Division, is published five times a year at a non-member subscription rate of $15, subscriptions available through the Division Office. Division Office: 2855 Panlela Drive, Salt Lake City, VT 84121, [phone]. Editorial and Advertising Office: 4664 Clearview Street, Salt Lake City, VT 84117 [phone], Rodger Renstrom, Editor. INSTRUCTORS EDGE 15 UPDATE continued/rom 10 Skiing Assessment - $25 Teaching Clinic - $25 Teaching Assessment - $25 Total $130 1993-94 Required Clinic -- 25 Skiing Assessment - $35 Teaching Assessment - $35 Total- $95 • It's Classified POSITION OPEN: Ski School Director for 300,000+ skier visit resort. Requires 3+ years ski school top management experience. Send resume to Human Resources Depart­ment, Purgatory-Durango Ski Resort, #1 Skier Place, Durango, CO 81301. E. O. E. ASSISTANT DlRECTORITRAINING DIRECTOR Crystal Mountain Resort, Washington, is accepting applications for an assistant ski school director/training director for the 1993-94 season. Job qualifications include, divisional clinic leader and examiner, 3+ years supervisory ex­perience, 8+ years of full time teaching experience. Send resume or inquire with: Director of Skiing, #1 Crystal Mt. Blvd., Crystal MI., WA 98022,206 663-2265. SKI INSTRUCTORS Crystal Mountain Resort, Washington, is accepting applications for full time ski instructors for the 1993-94 season. Associate or full cer­tification preferred, pay 8.oolhr to 15.oo/hr. Outstanding training program with National Demonstration Team Mem­ber. Build your skills, ski one of the best expert mountains in the U. S. and have fun along the way in a positive atmosphere.lnqurirewith: Directorofskiing, #1 Crystal Mt. Blvd., Crystal MI. WA 98022, 206 663-2265. The Instructors EDGE A publication of PSIA-I 2855 Pamela Drive Salt Lake City, Utah 84121 Opinions presented in the EDGE are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions or policies of the Professional Ski Instructors of America Intermountain Division. 16 INSTRUCTORS EDGE Hop Skip and Jump Your Way to Better Skiing! By JO GARRUCIO, PSIA-I EDUCATION CHAIRPERSON Although plyometrics training has been around since the early '70s, it has only recently become an integral part of quality athletic training programs. Plyometrics exercise enables the athlete to blend speed and strength effectively. It can produce movements that are quick, explosive and fast-reacting - elements indicative of highly skilled skiers, as well as athletes in many other sports. Briefly, plyometrics training combines a pre-stretch of muscle­tendon units followed immediately by a contraction and promotes greater strength and power gains. An athlete incorporating plyometrics training should have a reasonable amount of flexibility and should integrate the ex­ercises with their regular training schedule (aerobics and resistance train­ing) during the pre-season cycle. If he/she has no prior experience with plyometrics training, weight training and plyometrics should not be done on the same day. If it is done on the same day, perform the plyometrics exercises first. In addition, allow 48 to 72 hours of recovery between plyometrics sessions and do no more than two per week. In this case, more is definitely not better! Begin with low intensity exercises and progress to moderate intensity. Only trained athletes should attempt a high level. Increase volume carefully and allow for maximum recovery between ef­forts. Here a few to try: 04-00082'+ NORM BURTON 1376 KINGSTON DRIVE OGDEN, UT 84403 Low Intensity Hip-twist Ankle Hop: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and upper body in a vertical position. Hop and twist from the hips and turn the legs 180 degrees. Return to start on the next hop and then hop 180 degrees in the other direction. Keep upper body quiet and repeat 15 to 20 times. Diagonal Cone Hops: Set up 6-10 cones (8-12 in. high) about 3-4 feet apart in a slalom pattern. Jump across the bar­riers with feet together, landing on both at the same time. Use a double arm swing to stabilize upper body. Minimize landing time and repeat 3 to 4 times. Box Jumps: Using a box 12-42 in. high depending on ability, jump up and land softly with both feet on the box. Step down and repeat. To add difficulty, jump down and immediately jump back up. Minimize landing time and gradually in­crease box height. Perform 10 or more. Moderate to High Intensity Stadium Hops: Find a set of bleachers or stadium stairs. Stand in a quarter-squat position at the bottom of the stairs with hands on hips. Jump continuously up the steps for 10 or more jumps. Land lightly and quickly. Most people can take two steps at a time. Zig-Zag Drill: Draw two parallel lines, 24-42 in. apart and about 15 yards long. Hop on one foot from one line to the other in a continuous forward motion. Mini­mize landing and do not double hop. (Drills taken Jumping into Plyometrics by Donald A. Chu. Other drills include bounding drills, skiers' jumps, lunge jumps and variations of the above.) A5 BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE PAID SLC,UTAH PERMIT NO.4383 INsrRU Vol. 15 No.1 The Official Publication of PSIA-Intermountain Warren Witherell David Evrard Be Biomechanically Correct in 93-94 Instructors who wish to offer customers the best service possible need to under­stand more than just the four fundamental skills. Two PSIA-I lectures this fall will address the issues of biomechanics and skier alignment through canting. Both the biomechanics and the canting lectures cover extremely important material of value to all instructors. Instructors receive 3 credits per lecture. John Feig, physical therapist at the Canyon Racquet Club, is scheduled to discuss the biomechanical and functional aspects of skiing November 16 at the Tyler Library in Midvale (see calendar for address). Clinic participants willieam to recognize various physical anomalies in skiers and how to prescribe exercises and stretches that will aide students in per­forming some of the technical tasks we ask of them. Warren Witherell and David Evrard, co­authors of The Athletic Skier, are slated to help Intermountain instructors under­stand the relationship of skier alignment and technique during their Nov. 30 presentation at Tyler Library. Witherell gained prominence in the 70s with his book How the Racers Ski. The level­headed duo will cover proper alignment procedure and the relationship between alignment and carving skills. Background information for this lecture is available in The Athletic Skier: Part II. Autographed copies of the book will be available after the lecture for $24.95. A teacher who understands the symptoms of a biomechanical problem and knows where to have it safely remedied will do more for a student with one recommendation than a thousand les­sons ever will. Some "bad habits" just are not fixable until the skier is properly aligned, and without any results from les­sons, that student may just be another hour of assignment never to be seen in ski school again. Be a full spectrum ski in­structor; and, Certified III candidates should know this information for assess­ment purposes! Costs for the lectures are expected to be $25 for both or $15 in­dividually. _ President's Report FALL 1993 By CRAIG "ROPER" PEARSON, PSIA-I PRESIDENT This year will again bring some changes in our Certification and Education programs. I believe these changes are made to benefit our members. Please take the time to read the Certification and Education Reports; further details will be forthcoming. Thanks go to Dave McCormick, certifica­tion chairperson and to Jo Garuccio, educa­tion chairperson, who have worked hard this summer developing the Certification and Education reports. I' m certain there is plenty of work in store for them and their commit­tees this coming season. Please contact them if you would care to help. A new advisory committee has been formed this year. Jackson Wells has ac­cepted chairmanship of the new Seniors Committee. Jack is a very talented and energetic individual and I'm looking for­ward to his involvement. This committee was established in response to our growing need to educate our members about teaching our aging population. Jack will be looking to our membership to staff his committee. Each PSlA-I member school should send a representative to form the Seniors Commit­tee. (See report this issue). This year, as every year, there will be elections for the Intermountain Board of Directors. Now is the time to prepare yourself or encourage others to run for election. If you have any questions regarding your own qualifications or would like additional information about the Board of Directors call or write any of the current or past board members. The Articles of Incorporation and Policies and Procedures of PSIA Inter­mountain should be added to your reading continued on 13 Communications Report STEW MARSH, PSIA INTERMOUNTAIN COMMUNICATIONS V.P. What is communication? Webster defines it as 1) an exchange of information, 2) a technique for expressing ideas effectively in speech or writing or through the arts. Throughout the summer months I have thought of ways to better communicate with the membership. I have thought "what can I write that will inform, stimulate and leave questions to be answered. As a division, and with the many intellectuals that reside in our ranks so few ever communicate with their peers. We may talk among ourselves but the sharing in print seems to seldom happen. As I read various publications and visit various places I often look for ways people communicate to others. This summer, my family and I had the opportunity to visit the land down under, wonderful Australia. As a tourist I became critical of how we were treated, customer service, costs, etc. With everything taken into account the trip met my expectations for a quality experience. I am sure that when the skiing public takes a Iesson(s) the expectations they have are quite the same. Prices, accessibility, service are among just a few of the things we think about when traveling. While diving out on the Great Barrier Reef we were given very precise instructions as to our goals and objectives. Being underwater in an unfamiliar place does cause one to listen quite intently. The instructions given were always given with safety as the main focus. Fun remained a close second as it does in skiing. Throughout the entire three weeks we were all provided excellent service with a congenial attitude. The people who were providing this service were always up. Excited about seeing new faces, determining goals, communicating with different languages, etc. All this seemed so closely related to our profession. We all know how difficult it is to remain enthusiastic day after day. To be constantly exposed to the elements. To show enjoyment when the weather changes. To manage those individuals who are more demanding than others in caring fashion. Our profession like all other service oriented profession is difficult. It is not just the skiing or teaching that gets people to return. It is your style and personality. I wish to applaud all the members of this association for their hard work and dedication to a profession and sport that demands a lot. Thanks, everyone! We often talk about how to get more people to take lessons. A term often used in the ski industry is "penetration rate." For ski school purposes this is the amount of skiers taking a lesson(s) compared to the number of skier days. Industry wide this figure is somewhere between 7-10 percent. This number has remained relatively constant over the past twenty years. Some areas do see a larger penetration rate; i.e. VaillBeaver Creek, Deer Valley, Snowmass and Buttermilk just to name a few. This rate no matter what type of marketing that an area puts out, the number of lessons given, compared to skier days is minimal. J. William Berry, in a recent industry newsletter, hints of similar problems, i.e. how to increase the number of people taking lessons and getting all aspects of the ski industry to work together. This, in my opinion, gets to the root of the problem. There needs to be a collaboration and a cooperative effort of ski area management, NSAA, ski schools and marketing departments, PSIA and NSPS to come together, work together and as Berry puts it, "to provide a better day of skiing for the public." My question is, when is this going to happen? While in Australia I noted a sign at a golf course. It simply stated: ''BE WISFJLET A PRO ADVISE" As you read and reread this phrase think of the repercussions it could have throughout the country if we were to capture this and place it in publications and places the public could view. It too, could become the slogan of our skiing profession. Instead of having friends advise, it may make people think twice about that offer and seek out professional advice. It c~rtainly caught my eye that day down under. continued on 11 2 INSTRUCTORS EDGE Women's College Set PSIA is conducting the 1994 Women's Education College. It will beheld at 2 dif­ferent sites and with identical agendas: Sun Valley, Id., Feb. 5 - 8; and Stratton Mt., Vt., Mar. 6 - 9. Information and registration forms will be in the fall (1993) issue of "The Professional Skier." This year's college is open to associate and full-certified women instructors and is limited to 40 participants. The staff consists of women in PSIA who are active nationally and regionally in training, certification, and women's programs. It will include Demo Team members Nancy Oakes and Dee Byrne Carol Levine, former D-team member Annie Vareille-Savath, Telluride Ski School Dir. Mermer Blakeslee, PSIA-E Trainer/Examiner. Both events will have 5 on-snow group leaders to keep group sizes small. Also on the agenda will be special indoor presentations by experts in the field of sport psychology. This year the College will focus on psychology and how gender influences behavior in sport, specifically how it af­fects our students in skiing. Indoor con­tent will cover current theories about gender differences in sport socialization and the influence this can have on many of our students. Three days on snow will serve as follow-up and exploration of the indoor themes. Call Karen Haqaman at the PSIA nation-al office for details. • Stress Reduction. General Deep Tissue. Rdlc:xology .Accuprcssure Polarity. Sports MOUNTAIN MAHOGANY Therapeutic Massage Jan L.Hines, L.M.T. 969 West Melbourne Court ~ Farmington, Utah 84025-4111 • • Phone [phone] . PSIA-I Coming Events! PSIA Intermountain Education College 1993 Put a Little Variety in Your Weekend The 1993 Ed College will offer a variety of clinics including a couple of new ones, and participants can choose to stay in one track for the entire week-end or try something from a different area each day. Core Curriculum December 3 Ski Improvement (moderate and aggressive groups) December 4 Ski Improvement (moderate and aggressive groups) Advanced Educator (for Cert II and III instructors only) December 5 same as Dec. 4 Exam Prep Track December 3 Mech II and III December 4 Skiing II and III Train the Trainer (for Ski School trainers only with Directors permission) Levell Assessment Entry Level Clinic (for those who cannot get clinic at home) December 5 Teaching II and III Electives December 3 December 4 December 5 Race Clinic - Personal improvement: GS Variable Conditions - off piste only Race Clinic - Personal improvement: slalom Variable Conditons - off piste only Kids. Adults and Seniors - compare and contrast Advanced Bumps/Powder - Ski It and Teach It Variable Conditions - off piste only Advanced Bumps/Powder - Ski It and Teach It Alternative Track December 4 December 5 Snowboard Cross-country tour - Pack a lunch Cross-country - Skating techniques Lodging at Targhee is on low­season rates. Lodging is also avail­able in Tetonia, Alta and Driggs. General Membership Meetings November 10 Tyler Library, Midvale, UT December 3 Grand Targhee at Ed College Alta Skiing Improvement November 13 Biomechanics with John Feig November 16 Tyler Library, Midvale Canting and Alignment with Warren Witherell and David Evrard November 30 Tyler Library, Midvale Lookfor Clinic Applications in this Issue of the EDGE INSTRUCTORS EDGE 3 Education Comer By JO GARUCCIO, PSIA INTERMOUNTAIN EDUCA nON CHAIRPERSON PSIA-I Education and Certification Outcome Outline (Master Plan Update): Education Clarification The updated Master Plan is finally coming together and I believe the changes will make our education and certification process much more accessible and under­standable. It is impossible to print all the details at this time, but I would like to highlight the important points. The entire "outcome packet" will be available by Thanksgiving at the very latest, and will be distributed through ski schools, clinics and the mail. First of all, updating our assessment clinics turned out to be a larger task than initially anticipated. After attending the National Education and Certification meet­ing in June, we (the Ed/Cert body) realized that correlating assessment clinic content with the criteria that examiners were actually evaluating in the assessment meant that we had to be much more specific with regards to our expectations. Before revising outlines or changing assessment procedures, we had to agree on the criteria or standards. This may sound like things just got "thicker", but in reality, with the updated plan and realization of the "outcomes" the education process and the assessment itself will become far less mysterious! Everything is now out in the open. Candidates will know exactly what to study and examiners will have more specific guidelines for the actual evaluation process. Outcomes and Objectives Now, before anyone jumps out the nearest window over the outline, let me briefly explain. If the word bothers you, be calm! Outcome is very close to objective, a term that we have used since the inception of the Master Plan and will continue to use when designing our education programs. However, outcome sounds a little more result oriented, and implies that after adequate study and preparation, we are in fact going to see results. Furthermore, we have explicitly told you what those results should be! We are not trying to displace your brain with more jargon, but simply believe that the word "outcome" more accurately describes the total picture. In other words, when an instructor has completed all their training.at a certain level and is ready to tackle an assessment, those results that the candidate has been striving to attain also become the standards for certification, and ultimately part of the test. Thus, after much discussion by the Ed/Cert Committee, the requirements or "out­comes" became a workable document. Some of the assessment clinics have been revised and designed to help candidates reach those results and become good, effective teachers. It is impossible however, to coverall the information required in each subject area. Each assessment clinic will cover several of the outcomes in their respective areas and candidates will have to look to their ski school for the remainder of the training. In addition, we are also preparing a study guide for each area of certification. Study guides will give you references for information and ideas for practice. Remember! There are several parts to the education process. Divisional clinics, ski school clinics, observation, study and practice are all necessary for success. The "outcomes" simply give you a more focused plan of attack. They let you know where you need to be, and are an addition to the Master Plan. Assessment Clinics Assessment clinics will still be offered in each of the three subject areas at both Level II and III. A take home workbook has been substituted for Mechanics I and Teaching I. Thus, the requirements for Levell will include a workbook and a Skiing I Assessment. continued on J J 4 INSTRUCTORS EDGE U of U Archives Ski Affair '93 'Ski Area Pioneer' By SUE RAEMER, U of U SKI ARCHIVES CHAIRMAN The snow will soon be flying and one more year of ski history will begin. The University of Utah Ski Archives will celebrate another year of ski history on Thursday, October 28, at 6:30 p.m. at the Red Lion Hotel and you are invited. This year's event will focus on early ski area development. PSIA members serving on the Ski Ar­chives Selection Committee included, Phil Jones (chair), Keith Lange, Lou Lorenz, Alan Engen, and Junior Bounous. The committee formulated the criteria for the "Ski Area Pioneers Award": (1) ski area began operation in the late 1930s or early 40's: (2) has remained in operation, continuously: and (3) located in the Inter­mountain area. The ski areas meeting the criteria include: Alta, Beaver Mountain, Brighton, Snow Basin, Timp Haven (Sun­dance), Sun Valley, Magic Mountain, and Snow King. ski pioneers associated with these areas will be honored at the event. PSIA has been supportive of the Ski Archives through a yearly contribution. In appreciation of this support, PSIA mem­bers are invited to attend the event at the Ski Archives membership fee. Identifying yourself as a member of PSIA will allow you to join us for a buffet dinner and program for $25 (the non-member fee is $30). The social hour will begin at 6:30 p.m. and a no-host bar will be available. As this is a fund-raising event, there will be a silent auction featuring a number of enticing items. We hope you will be able to attend this event, learn more about the organization and what it is accomplishing, and become a member yourself. Barbara Amidon, a PSIA member, is the Membership Chair­man and will be on hand during the pro­gram with membership information. Again, thanks for the support of PSI A. We look forward to seeing many of you at the event. If you have any questions, please contact the Marriott Library at 581-8558. Reservation form in back of EDGE. • JETs Set to 96, PSIA-I Member Named as Coach The PSIA Children's Committee has an­nounced that the current Junior Education Team (JETs) will remain in place until the spring of 1996, when new members for all national teams will be selected. Pre­viously announced plans called for new JETs selections in April, 1994. The PSIA Board of Directors decided at its summer meeting to postpone JETs selection two years to bring all national teams onto the same selection schedule. According to Marty Harrison, Children's Committee Chairperson, the Board hopes this change will build uniformity among the teams, as well as create a more com­prehensive marketing package to sell to sponsors, thus serving both team mem­bers and PSIA alike. According to Harrison, Children's Com­mittee members hope that PSIA members who planned to apply for a position on the JETs this year will recognize the benefits of this change and adjust plans accordingly. The committee is looking forward to a great turn-out for the 1996 selection event. PSIA Intermountain's Chirstine Katzen­berger will gradually assume Charlie Ebel's position as JETs head coach. Alexandra Smith-Boucher from Stratton, VT will act as research and development coach. Jim Heldt, PSIA-C, will replace Marty Harrison, Okemo, VT as Children's Committee Chairperson. The focus of the JETs has been on physi­cal development - how children learn to ski, mechanics of that development, crea­tiveness in children's lesson planning and now, at this year's symposium, a focus on the whole child. The JETs have entitled the 1994 National Children's Sym­posium, "Creating Challenges for Children." The symposium is scheduled for Jan. 31 through Feb. 2, at Snowbird. Don't miss this backyard opportunity to pick up some information on children's ski teaching techniques and network with people from allover the nation about their programs and ski schools. Look to future EDGE publications for more information. If you have any questions regarding the above statement, please contact Christine Katzenberger, DECL, JETS Coach. _ Certification Comer DAVE McCORMICK, PSIA-I CERTIFICATION CHAIRPERSON As Certification Chair I have written only one Certification Corner. In that article I failed to do something very important and wish to redeem myself here. A sincere congratulations to all NORDIC, SNOWBOARD and ALPINE instruc­tors who qualified for their various Certification levels. The list was published in the "Summer 1993" issue of the EDGE if you would like to go back and take a look at the list of successful candidates. It is a long one. But just for the record, I'd like to recap the numbers. Nordic Certified I - 11 Certified II - 6 Certified III - 4 Snowboard Certified I - 7 Certified II - 8 Certified III- 5 Alpine Certified I - 84 Certified II - 24 Certified III - 23 . It looks like Alpine Certified II could be a popular assessment this season! Good Job everyone. The Education and Certification Committee looks forward to your continued growth as professional ski instructors. This is the reason PSIA-I exists - to support and encourage the professional development and involvement of its members. The Education and Certification Committee has been active over the summer clarifying and building onto the PSIA-I Education and Certification Master Plan. . ~wo noteworthy projects which will benefit education and certification par­tICIpants were: Streamlining the clinic and assessment calendar. Designing DECL training and performance standards. We moved ahead with one primary goal in mind - improve the educational quality and value of ~ur ~ducation and Certification process by tightly integrating the two programs. ThiS Simply means that as a candidate during a certification assessment you will be explaining and showing what you learned in assessment clinics and other training. The "process of certification" is simply a way to validate PSIA-I educa­tional programs. ~is is ?ot a new ide~. The Ed./Cert. Master Plan was created for this purpose and wIll contmue to get a fme tune. What is a new idea however, is that we are using the same set of criteria to design both clinics and assessments. We have produced a document called the PSIA-I Education and Certification Outcome Outline as an ~ddition to our Master Plan (Blue Book). This document defines exactly what an mstr":ctor shoul~ know ~~d be able to do in the areas of mechanics, skiing and teachmg by statmg speCifiC outcomes for education clinics and defining perfor­mance standards for each certification level. Think of these instructor performance outcome statements as the end product or result of your training. The assessment process is then the equivalent to the "checking for understanding" portion of the ATS Teaching Model. And each certification level represents a level of expertise as a professional ski instructor. ~e PSIA-I Education an~ Certi~ication Outcome Outline was put together by havmg our Ed./Cert. Committee reView the PSIA National Education and Certifica­tion Committee's outcome document. The National committee's work is being proposed for adoption by PSIA as a national standard for certification levels I, II continued on 10 INSTRUCTORS EDGE 5 PSIA-Intennountain Alpine Certification Process Review DA VE McCORMICK, PSIA-I CERTIFICATION CHAIR The infonnation on the following pages provides an overview of the PSIA-I Cer­tification process for the 1993-94 ski season. This overview is meant to answer basic questions for attaining Entry Level and Alpine Certified Levels I, II, and III. It is not meant to be a final manual for the Certification process. Other material is still being developed for early season dis­tribution to PSIA~I member schools and instructors. For instance, there will be a packet con­taining a study guide which will identify the references we are using for the ed./cert. process, ie. A TS2, the ATS Handbook, PSIA-I Education and Cer­tification Outcome Outline, etc. This packet will be a supplement to the Master Plan (Blue Book) and fonnally integrated next summer. It is scheduled to be mailed out in November. Also, excluded from this overview are details concerning Nordic, Snowboard and Handicapped certification. Look for this information soon and call the PSIA-I office with any questions. The accompanying flow chart identifies the major steps in the Certification process. Refer to the Steps to Certification article for details to each step. Here are a couple of tips for planning your instructor training and certification assessments: • Plan ahead: Look closely at your own time commitments and then at the Clinic and Assessment calender. Ideal­ly you will be able to schedule your required Assessment Clinic well before the assessment. You will also be able to schedule the Mechanics and Skiing As­sessment with a Teaching Assessment CERTIFIED II Attend I-day Mechanics ENTRY LEVEL CERTIFIED I and Teaching Assessment Onto Certified Level III Receive PSIA-I PSIA-I member Submit Mechffeaching membership application Entry Level Assessment application On to Certified Levell obtained from Mech/Skiing Assessment day Attend I -day Entry Attend I-day Level Clinic at home MechaniCS/Skiing area or attend Assessment indoors Division Entry Level Clinic and on-snow Sign up with Submit Mech/Skiing ski school director Assessment application or available in the EDGE or PSIAOffice Division Office Sponsored by a Attend at least one recognized ski school Level II Assessment Clinic Division Office Confirms ~11~l~r Certified Levell status. PSIA-I member Certified Levell On to Certified Level" 6 INSTRUCTORS EDGE two weeks later (enough time to get the next application in). However, you may decide to wait and take the second as­sessment later in the season, or next season, to allow for more training time. The scheduling of education and cer­tification events was designed with these options in mind. • Know what is expected: Become familiar with the materials the PSIA-I Education and Certification process has identified as clinic outcomes and cer­tification standards. Steps to Certifia­tion and the Education Comer by Jo Garuccio, published in this issue of the edge are a start. Keep abreast by talking to your ski school trainer and watching for more information to be distributed by the Education and Certification Committee. For information contact the PSIA-I of-fice. _ CERTIFIED III PSIA-I member Certified Level II Attend I-day Mechanics Ll and Teaching Assessment L"" Onto? L PSIA Intennountain Certification Requirements ENTRY LEVEL Registration To become an Entry Level member you must be sponsored by aPSIA-I recognized ski school and be at least 16 years of age. Application There are two options for registering and attending an Entry Level clinic. You may sign up at your home area with your Ski School Director for a clinic to be ad­ministered by the ski school or a con­tracted DECL (this clinic is free to the instructor) or, register with the PSIA-I office to attend a clinic administered by a DECL and scheduled on the PSIA-I events calendar. There is a $25.00 fee with this option. Entry Level Clinic Day This is a one day indoor and on-snow clinic covering an overview of the American Teaching System, PSIA-I and supporting materials. Refer to the clinic descriptions published in this issue of the EDGE for further information about the Entry Level clinic. PSIA-I Membership On completion of this clinic you will receive a PSIA-I membership application. By joining PSIA-I you will receive the Entry Level status. CERTIFIED LEVEL I Required To become Certified PSIA-I Level I you must be a PSIA-I Entry Level member in good standing. Workbook The Certified Level I Workbook can be purchased through your ski school SIRC member (Ski Instructor Representative Committee), Ski School Director or PSIA-I office. The Workbook includes the application for the Level I Assessment as well as assignments to be completed before attending the assessment. These assignments are designed to introduce you to the American Teaching System and PSIA-I. Teaching concepts, terminology and skiing mechanics will be covered. There is also an assignment in the Workbook which will NOT be completed until the day of the clinic. The cost of the Workbook is $15.00. Application Return the application and assessment fee of $25.00 to the PSIA-I office 14 days or more before the assessment date. This application must be signed by your ski school director. Late applications will not be accepted. Certified Levell Assessment This is a one day indoor and on-snow assessment based on the American Teach­ing System, PSIA-I and supporting materials. The areas addressed will be mechanical understanding and skiing per­formance. Refer to the clinic descriptions published in this issue of the EDGE for a more detailed outline of the Certified Level I Assessment. Bring your com­pleted Workbook to this assessment; it will be used during the day and turned in to the DECL for scoring. Assessment Requirement Provision Attention Alpine Certified Levels I. II and III Candidates In an effort to stabilize the certification process during its revision a "grandfather clause" will be instituted for instructors who have partially com­pleted their certification requirements. The Education and Certification Com­mittee is aware of a significant number of instructors affected by the format change. Our intention is make the tran­sition as smooth as possible. For certification candidates who did not complete all three assessments during the 1991/92 or 1992/93 ski season, there is a provision built into this season's certification format to help you continue the process. The PSIA-I office has a record for each instructor affected by this provision and those individuals will receive instructions on through the mail on how to continue the exam process. This information is scheduled to be mailed November 1. • Workbook The completed Workbook will be turned over to the DECL, scored and returned within 4 working days to confirm your PSIA-I Certified Level I status. Member­ship dues must be paid in full at this time. CERTIFIED LEVEL n Required To qualify for PSIA-I Level II Certified you must be a Level I Certified instructor in good standing. You must also attend at least one Level II Assessment Clinic before you attend the assessments. This required 6-hour Assessment Clinic can be either the Mechanics, the Skiing or the Teaching Assessment Clinic and costs $25.00. Refer to the clinic descriptions publish­ed in this issue of the EDGE for further information. Application Mechanics/Skiing Assessment The application for the Certified Level II Mechanics and Skiing Assessment will be available in the EDGE. The cost for the assessment is $45.00. The fee and applica­tion must be received in the PSIA-I office at least 14 days prior to the event. This application must be signed by your ski school director. Late applications will not be accepted. Assessment The Certified Level II Mechanics and Skiing Assessment is a one day indoor and on-snow event. The average assessment group size will be 7 candidates. Each group will have two examiners for the entire day. No more than two "DECLs in Training" per group will assist. There will be a written test which in­cludes video analysis and scored on-snow skiing situations. All Level II Assessment criteria is based on principles and con­cepts as defined by the American Teach­ing System and PSIA-1. Upon qualifying for Certified Level II Mechanics and Skiing (results will be posted at days end), you will receive an application for the Certified Level II Mechanics and Teaching Assessment. If you fail to qualify for Certified Level II Mechanics and Skiing and wish to re-continued on 8 INSTRUCTORS EDGE 7 REQUIREMENTS continued from 7 enter the process, you must re-take the Assessment Clinic and re-apply for the Mechanics and Skiing Assessment. Fail­ing to qualify a second time will require a 6 month waiting period before another application can be made for Certified Level II Mechanics and Skiing. Application Mechanics/Teaching Assessment This application will be available upon qualifying for Certified Level II Mechanics and Skiing or through the EDGE or Division office. The cost is $45.00 for the Certified Level II Mechanics and Teaching Assessment. The fee and application must be received in the PSIA-I office at least 14 days prior to the event. Your ski school director must sign your application. Late applications will not be accepted. Mechanics/Teaching Assessment The Certified Level II Mechanics and Teaching Assessment is a one day indoor and on-snow event. The average assess­ment group size will be seven candidates. Each group will have two examiners for the entire day. No more than two DECLs in Training per group will assist. There will be a written test which in­cludes teaching issues and mechanical is­sues i.e., video analysis and skiing skill development prescriptions. You will also be evaluated and scored on-snow teaching situations. All Level II Mechanics and Teaching Assessment criteria is based on principles and concepts as defined by the American Teaching System and PSIA-I. Upon qualifying for Certified Level II Teaching (results will be posted at days end), you will receive your PSIA-I Level II Certification. If you fail to qualify for Certified Level II Mechanics and Teaching and wish to re-enter the process, you must re-take the required Assessment Clinic (must cover the category you failed to qualify in) and re-apply for the Mechanics and Teaching Assessment. Failure to qualify in two con­secutive attempts will require a 6-month waiting period before another application can be made for Certified Level II Mechanics and Teaching. CERTIFIED LEVEL III Re