Racing for U8-U14's, and first year U16’s (Ages 6-14 as of December 31 of the current year) | Projected Start Date: December 16 weather dependent 

Interclub is a race series run through Tri-State with races across Western Massachusetts and NW Connecticut. This program is designed for young kids who have typically completed at least a season or two (or more) of the Devo program, are ready to step their skills up a notch, and really enjoy the element of competition.

The time commitment is greater than that for Devo, and while most activity remains at Catamount, families will be expected to bring their children to a handful of races at other mountains, where the kids can test themselves against peers from other programs in western Massachusetts. While the Interclub program is, by its very nature, an exciting introduction for a youngster to the world of ski racing, the heavy emphasis remains on focused free-skiing and drills to further develop balance, agility, edging, rotary skills, and, oh yeah, fun!

Experience

There is no strict time-in-grade type prerequisite. Our coaches consider each child’s eligibility and fit with the Interclub program on a case-by-case basis. In general, most of these kids have typically completed at least a season or two (or more) of the Devo program. More important is the skill, interest, and attitude of the kid and the commitment of the family.

Training

Training is primarily on weekends, beginning in mid-December, conditions permitting.  During the week between Christmas and New Year’s, we typically offer the Holiday Race Camp, which is included in the Interclub program.  A typical training day begins at 8:30 am and ends at 2:30 pm, with an unsupervised hour lunch break around 11 am. 

Athletes and coaches work together to develop mutual trust and respect. Athletes are expected to ask questions when they don’t understand or need clarification. Athletes are expected to keep coaches informed of any issues that may impact training or racing performance (e.g. homework, injury, lack of sleep, appointments and other obligations, etc.). It is the combined responsibility of coaches and athletes to make the most of each day out on the hill.

-- Training does not necessarily imply gates -- 

The majority of training, in fact, will not be in gates. Coaches will determine the appropriate training based on  the athletes’ skills, needs, and development. Training activity may include gates, fitness, video review, focused freeskiing, drills, powder skiing, glades, etc.

Competition

Interclub kids compete in a handful of races at other mountains where they can test themselves against peers from other programs in western Massachusetts. Most of the races are Giant Slalom. Families are responsible for registering their athletes for competitions.