The Strathcona Nordics Rabbit Skill Development Programs (SDP) are structured according to a new series of developmental programs implemented by Cross Country Canada. These programs are part of Sport Canada's new Long term Athlete Development Model (LTAD), which is designed to encourage lifelong participation in sport while developing all participants to their full potential. The goals of our Rabbit Skill Development Programs are two-fold: to provide lessons for recreational skiers who can go on to enjoy a lifelong sport, and serveas initial development of skiers who may choose to go onto racing at a competitive level. Across all levels, coaches introduce the skiers to appropriate skill development in a supportive atmosphere of fun and enjoyment.
While our programs have always been structured to meet the developmental needs of participants, the new structure brings a couple of changes in the 2008 season. Skiers aged four and five will participate in the Bunnyrabbit Program, which is designed to introduce kids to the sport of Nordic skiing. The focus is on balance and learning through organized activity and active play in a variety of terrain. Skiers in this program require parent support during the lessons (which means at least one parent needs to be a club member). The Jackrabbit Program is for skiers aged six to twelve years old. This program involves a series of four skill development progressions, focusing on balance, agility, and rhythm. All classic techniques are covered, and skate skiing is introduced in the third and fourth levels. Skiers will develop confidence, build overall motor skills, and develop outdoor winter safety skills
Schedule and Fees Rabbit Skill Development Programs take place on Saturday and Sunday mornings, from 10 a.m. to noon, for 10 sessions. Sessions begin at the front of Raven Lodge. Participants must be members of Strathcona Nordics and pay the program fee. Early-bird fees are 50.00 per child, and after November 30, 2007 program fees are $75.00. Trail fees charged by Mt Washington and equipment costs are not included. Registration forms are available at Ski Tak (Courtenay), Raven Lodge or on the web site.

2008 Schedule: Rabbit Skill Development Programs
First session starts January 5, 2008 and final session ends March 9, 2008. There is the opportunity to participate in the Saturday or Sunday programs both running from 10:00 to 12:00.

Rabbit Skill Development Program Safety Issues and Parental Responsibilities
Children should be accompanied by a parent/guardian and handed over to their coach at the beginning of each session. Please leave sufficient time to park your vehicle and rent equipment. Remember, other skiers aside from Rabbits may be renting equipment on Sunday mornings. If you are late and your child's class has left, it is your responsibility, as a parent, to locate the group. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should a child be sent alone to find their group if you arrive late. Punctuality is for consideration of the group, who may get cold waiting for latecomers. Conversely it is also the responsibility of the parents to pick their child up at the end of each session in front of the Raven Lodge at noon. If the weather is stormy or wet, be prepared to get your child earlier than 12:00.
Please supply your children with adequate clothing to stay warm and dry (mittens, hat, snow pants, raincoats, etc.). Coaches will not permit children to participate if their clothing is found insufficient for safety reasons. Having proper ski equipment that fits your child well is also very important for their learning and enjoyment. Consider renting skate skis if skating is to be taught during that session. These suggestions are made to ensure your child benefits as much as possible from their skiing experience. Hopefully they will enjoy themselves and want to take you skiing to show off their newfound nordic skills!

Equipment and Trail Passes
Mt. Washington offers reduced-rate equipment rentals and 10-session trail passes for Strathcona Nordics Rabbit SDP skiers. Check with Raven Lodge for their rates. Skiers who are 6 and under ski free, but they must go to the rental/ticket area at Raven Lodge and pick up a pass for liability purposes. Parents of all Bunnyrabbits and Jackrabbits who accompany their childs' group can also obtain a "no fee" trail pass, that is valid during lesson times only while they ski with their kids. We highly recommend all trail passes and rental arrangements are taken care of in advance of the first program session, due to crowds on our first day.

Coaching
Volunteer coaching is a great way for parents to get involved with the club, support their kids, and gain new skills. Our Rabbit SD Programs will continue to succeed due to the skill and efforts of volunteer parent coaches, and we are always looking for enthusiastic new members to our coaching team. High skill level is not required, and the club pays for all required coaching certification courses which are delivered locally every year. For many people, coaching Rabbits is a great way to improve their own skiing, and paves the way for many future opportunities for themselves and their families in this sport. This season we are offering the two required coaches clinics on the weekends of November 30 / Dec 1, 2007 and January 11-13, 2008. For upcoming courses please go to coach certification or for more information please contact Don Chamberlain, Rabbit SDP Program coordinator.
We are looking forward to another great season of Rabbit Skill Development!!

Registration