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YOUTH COMPETITION - TOP FLIGHT
Eligibility Dependent on age and developmental level of skier.  Based on competitive goals and overall focus on training and competition  goals.
Basic Description Top Flight & Elite programs are for skiers who are focused on training year-round to meet their goals in the sport of cross country skiing (necessary for Top Flight and highly recommended for Elite). Current sport science and Nordic skiing science theory will be used as guiding principles in the development of skiers. This mission will focus the resources required to best support skiers throughout all aspects of recovery, training, life balance as well as trip and competition management.
General Competition Goal(s) To perform at the National level and gain experience at that International level (NorAm/FIS).
Typical Seasonal Competition Targets
  • Category Aggregate Top 5 @ Canadian National Championships
  • Participate in two sets of international events (NorAm/FIS events).
  • [Some Juniors] Maximize performance at World Junior Trials (NorAm)

Basic Winter Equipment Requirements

*Skis need to be fitted to current body weight and height.
  • Classic & Skate Racing Boots
  • Classic Skis*: 2 sets (Warm & Cold)
  • Skate Skis*: 2 sets (Warm & Cold)
  • Classic & Skate Poles (Carbon w/PS)
  • Properly fitted early-season/Rock Skis (CL/SK)
  • Insulated drink belt (water)
  • Log book
  • Beat by Beat Heart Rate Monitor with memory
Athlete Responsibilities
  • Practice good training habits and optimize recovery
  • Attend training sessions
  • Commitment to follow the provided training program including self-directed aerobic and strength training
  • Maintain consistent log book
  • Attend recommended competitions
  • Contribute to positive team dynamics
  • Check coach communications (blog or email) daily and respond to coach requests for response in a timely manner.
  • Study the sport: learn about technique, watch race video
  • Ask coach when you are not sure of the technical feedback you have received
Parent  Responsibilities
  • Support child (athlete) so they are able to fulfill their responsibilities to their training and their team
  • Check coach communications (blog or email) daily and respond to coach requests for response in a timely manner.
  • Study the sport: learn about technique, watch race video
  • Ask coach when you are not sure of any communications you have received (or not)
  • Where ever possible, try to participate as a volunteer in support of the club’s programs, local events, camps and team trips.
Coaching/Program Responsibilities
  • Provide a safe and positive training environment at training sessions, camps, and competitions
  • Ensure that the team blog (or an equivalent tool) is updated weekly
  • Include parents in all athlete communications
  • Provide guidance & support to other program coaches as required
  • Ensure that all athletes have guidance for their weekly, monthly and seasonal training as is appropriate to their age, stage of athlete development, and commitment to training
Training Program Design and Monitoring Differentiated general training program design; weekly monitoring
Technique Development
  • Early snow technique-oriented camp
  • Technique work throughout season using “chase/follow feedback method”
  • Focus: economy of motion, high speed downhill, and variable technique adaptations to race conditions and terrain to maximize velocity
  • Integrating video into technique training sessions and include self analysis during training.

Weekly Training Schedule

*Schedule remains the same for year-round, summer and fall/winter

3 organized coached sessions/week: plus other options as recommended and available

  • Tues/Thurs: regular sessions (6:30-8:00pm)
  • Sat: 9:30 to 11:30am
  • Sun: Parent/Athlete organized group distance-aerobic session
*Changes to schedule may be made as required
Sport Science
  • Regular Field testing
  • Fatigue monitoring

Camp and Competition Support

Designed with parent consultation, coordinated by volunteers, and led by Head Coach
  • Coordination of all logistics – parent supported
  • Comprehensive race service support (competition trips)
  • Comprehensive race day support
Outfitting/Uniform

Toque & Warm-up Jacket – purchased separately; not on zone 4 registration

Winter and Annual Program Fees

+ Club membership

Includes program as described
*Sport science support and assessment costs will be charged separately
*Development of Individual Training Plan - separate fee
*All camp and travel/race costs are the responsibility of the athlete/family

Training and program planning
(July 1, 2011 – April 1, 2012)

$ 850.00

Club and program registration is done through Zone 4.  Please register for the Youth Competitive Program (Year-round is a requirement for the Top-flight group).  Training groups will be arranged when programs commence and will be done based on ‘eligibility’ and coach recommendations after discussion with the athlete.

 
 
LINKS TO MORE INFORMATION
Track Attack
Lynx
Junior Train to Train
Senior Learn to Compete
Varsity Train to Compete
Masters Performance Train to Compete
Junior and Senior Distance Training
Biathlon Shooting Program
Summer Programs
Wax shopping list

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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