The Development Team (Devo) is a group of keen 9-12 year-old skiers* who work hard, have fun and are beginning to prepare for competition. Designed to promote the continued development of physical literacy and fitness, the Devo (Track Attack) program is the next step, after Jackrabbits, in Sport Canada's – Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model; skiers in this group are at the Learn to Train stage of development. Personal challenge, enhancing competence in the basic skills required to excel in cross country skiing and having FUN are the aims of this program.
Below is a list of criteria for those considering Devos:
9 years of age (for the 2023-24 season) is the recommended entry for Devos; however, children 8 years of age will be considered on a case by case basis if they are a good fit for the program as well as developmentally ready for the program
They must have completed at least Jackrabbit L3 (or equivalent) and are consistently demonstrating all L3 skills competently
They must be competent in classic ski techniques and have basic skate skiing skills
They must have specific classic and skate skis and poles (either own or rent)
The child has a strong desire to work hard, to improve skiing technique, fitness and speed.
It is important that the child is ready physically, mentally and emotionally for this type of training. In other words, the child wants to be there. To ensure the child is ready for this type of experience, coaches will screen children at the beginning of dryland and on-snow seasons to ensure suitability and fit.
*Note: Some 8 year olds will be considered for the Devo Team on a case by case basis if they are developmentally ready for the program.
Program goals:
Fitness! Fun! Teamwork!
Improve cross country ski technique
Explore and enjoy many fun on and off trail ski activities
Learn how to race with confidence, and be safe in winter conditions
Positive introduction to age appropriate competition
We aim to work on the continual development of technical skills in both classic and skate skiing through activities appropriate to the group’s abilities. The program is also about working on other important life skills such as team work, personal care (good nutrition and sleep habits) and personal responsibility (looking after your own equipment).
The Devo program includes 3 regional camp opportunities in May, September and December, as well as ad hoc training during the spring/summer. There are also 2 summer adventures - a bike trip to Hornby Island in the early summer and a backpacking trip into Strathcona Provincial Park in the late summer. The aim of these activities is to provide opportunities to have lots of fun and to be active together!
The Devo program begins in September each year with scheduled practices on Thursdays at 4:30 and 1 weekend practice (usually on Saturday). There will be several optional roller skiing sessions over the dry-land training period (summer/fall). Roller skis are provided by the club.
When the snow flies, training takes place once during the week and on weekends.
Personal challenge, includes the chance to participate in some local races such as the Coast Cup (along with our Bunny and Jackrabbits) and the Vancouver Island Loppet, all held on our very own mountain. The main event however, is the ever popular and super fun road trip to the BC Track Attack Championships, the premier event on the Devo calendar. Skiers learn about team travel, racing, supporting each other all the while having the best time with their skiing friends.
Team Training
Fall (September to November)
Thursday – Dryland training 4:30 to 6pm
1 Weekend pracitce (usually Saturday)– group runs/hikes (Terry Fox Run, Perseverance Trail Run) and roller ski sessions (roller skis are supplied by the club)
Winter (December to March)
Thursday – On-snow training 4:30 to 6pm (skate)
Saturday – On-snow training 9:30 to 11:30am (skate); afternoon fun race or group ski
Sunday – On-snow training 9:30 to11:30am (classic)
Spring/Summer (May to August)
Sessions are varied
Devos can choose either a partial or full program commitment. The partial program offers the skier the choice of attending a maximum of any two sessions per week. This program is generally aimed at skiers who are entering the Devo program and may not be ready to commit fully or have commitments in other sports or activities.
Qualified coaches at the Learn to Train level of training work with these athletes.
Contact info@strathconanordics.com for more information about this program.
2023-24 Fees
Devo (Track Attack) – fun, development program for youth ages 9 -12*.
Registration includes a Fall and Winter combined program.
Spring/Summer (May-Aug): Drop-in fee of $7.50/session to maximum of $100. (Varied schedule)
Fall/Winter (Sept to Mar): Thursday and 1-2 weekend practices
Part-time Program (2x training sessions/week):
Early bird (Oct 1-31): $240
Regular (Nov 1-Dec 31): $280
Full Program (3x/week)
Early bird (Oct 1-31): $350
Regular (Nov 1-Dec 31): $390
Read the Club Volunteer Policy before registering.