The U12 Alpine Racing program is for kids who are interested in alpine racing and for kids who just want to work on their fundamental skiing skills using racing to teach those skills at a high level. Training includes gate training, skiing bumps, powder, trees, jumps, and steeps, equipment preparation and more. Skiers participate in the local Steamboat Cup Series and RMD Age Class races within the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Rocky Mountain Division. Athletes participating in fall sports do not need to attend dryland training that is in conflict with their practice schedule, but dryland is highly encouraged for all others. The U12 Ski Meisters and U12 Ski & Jump programs are options that include ski jumping and cross country skiing for a complete skiing skill set! Jumping and cross country training goes through March 14.
Dryland Training: Starting September 16
Wednesday and Thursday, 4-5:30 p.m. at Howelsen Hill
On-Snow Training: Mid-November through April 11
Wednesday, 4-6 p.m. at Howelsen Hill
Thursday, 4-6 p.m. at Howelsen Hill or 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Steamboat Resort*
Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. at Steamboat Resort
Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Steamboat Resort
Bonus training sessions may be offered during Christmas Break, Blues Break, and scheduled off days for the Steamboat School District.
*Thursday alpine sessions may be at Howelsen from 4-6 p.m. or at Steamboat Resort 5:30-7:30 p.m. Location and time will be determined the week prior based on the training plan for the week
Skill Requirement
Comfortable on blue and black runs. 3-4 years of skiing experience. Racing experience is a plus but is not necessary.
Equipment
Slalom skis, properly fitted junior ski boots, helmet, and goggles with UV lenses are required. GS skis, speed suit, slalom pole guards, shin guards and goggles with clear/night lenses are recommended.
Passes
Must have full IKON pass and Howelsen Hill Pass.
Competition Information
Skiers are encouraged to compete in the RMD Age Class Series and RMD U12 Finale. On these race weekends, no training in Steamboat is provided.
Memberships
U.S. Ski & Snowboard alpine membership required for RMD Age Class races.
Team Jacket
Athletes are issued a SSWSC jacket in the fall to use for the season. Team training bib can be purchased in the fall.
Age Group
10-11 years old. Must be 10 years old by December 31, 2026.
Payment and Payment Plans: SSWSC offers multiple payment options for summer, winter, and year-round program fees. eCheck (ACH bank transfer), cash, checks, and credit cards are all accepted. We also offer a payment plan option. Find more information HERE.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarships: SSWSC offers the EZ Program Fee Scholarships for local families with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) up to $175,000 for winter and summer programs and up to $250,000 for competitive programs. All EZ Program Fee Scholarship applicants are required to submit a current 1040 or 1040EZ tax return to determine eligibility.