U14 Ski Program at Mountain Creek
For Kids Ages 12-13
The U14 program is where young racers move into true competitive skiing. Training focuses on refining technique, building tactical intelligence, and developing the physical and mental skills needed to succeed in higher-level racing.
The U14 program is the bridge between local junior racing and the larger competitive ski world — preparing athletes for U16, FIS, and beyond.
What Kids Learn
- Advanced Ski Technique – Pressure management, angulation, edge control at speed, and high-level carving in all snow conditions.
- Race Specialization – Strong focus on Slalom (SL) and Giant Slalom (GS), with exposure to Super-G (SG) where appropriate.
- Tactical Awareness – Course inspection strategies, terrain use, line choice, and adapting quickly to changing conditions.
- Physical Conditioning – Strength, agility, endurance, and dryland training to support on-snow performance.
- Mental Preparation – Goal setting, focus routines, visualization, and resilience under race-day pressure.
Program Goals
- Elevate athletes from strong junior racers to competitive regional contenders.
- Sharpen race tactics and consistency in execution across multiple disciplines.
- Build strong physical conditioning habits to support safe and powerful skiing.
- Develop independence: ski tuning, equipment care, warm-ups, and preparation.
- Prepare athletes for U16 and FIS racing, where national and international opportunities open up.
Parent Info
- Age Group: 12–13 years old (expert skiers, comfortable on all terrain).
- Training: Multiple weekly sessions, plus off-snow fitness and conditioning.
- Competition: SL, GS, and introductory SG events at regional and state levels.
- Commitment: Higher travel and race schedule; families should expect more weekend races and possible overnights.
- Gear: Dedicated SL, GS, and possibly SG skis; properly fitted race boots; full FIS-approved helmet, pole guards, shin protection, back protector recommended.
