Table of Contents
- Welcome Letter from Executive Director
- Mission, Vision, Values
- Guiding Principles
- Programs
- Equipment Recommendations
- Refund Policy
- Frequently Asked Questions
WELCOME LETTER
Dear Parents,
Welcome to Lake Louise Grizzlies Ski Club; we are looking forward to a great ski season!
I am sure you are just as excited as we are about the coming winter and all that it holds for our athletes. Your role as a parent in the club is critical to the success of all our athletes. Your enthusiasm for the sport and your willingness to volunteer on behalf of the club goes much farther than you might think.
Our coaching staff works extremely hard at providing the best learning environment for our athletes to learn and develop their skills in a positive and FUN environment at all times. The parent support is essential in the success of our programs but most importantly, in the success of our athletes.
Whether you are new to the club or you have been a member for a very long time, we look forward to your contribution to making your club the best in Canada. If you are new to our club, I hope you will share the experience of many of us that ours is a family ski community. Some even refer to this as an extended ski family as we all share in the development of the young people in the club.
We hope this document helps you more clearly understand the philosophy and vision of our club as well as some of the policies and procedures. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
We look forward to working with you to make this the best club in Canada. Thank you in advance for a great and exciting ski season.
We love to ski. Thanks for joining us!
Pierre Luc Dumoulin
Executive Director,
Lake Louise Athletic Development Association
executivedirector@lakelouiseclubs.com
www.lakelouisegrizzlies.ca
Dear Parents,
Welcome to Lake Louise Grizzlies Ski Club; we are looking forward to a great ski season!
I am sure you are just as excited as we are about the coming winter and all that it holds for our athletes. Your role as a parent in the club is critical to the success of all our athletes. Your enthusiasm for the sport and your willingness to volunteer on behalf of the club goes much farther than you might think.
Our coaching staff works extremely hard at providing the best learning environment for our athletes to learn and develop their skills in a positive and FUN environment at all times. The parent support is essential in the success of our programs but most importantly, in the success of our athletes.
Whether you are new to the club or you have been a member for a very long time, we look forward to your contribution to making your club the best in Canada. If you are new to our club, I hope you will share the experience of many of us that ours is a family ski community. Some even refer to this as an extended ski family as we all share in the development of the young people in the club.
We hope this document helps you more clearly understand the philosophy and vision of our club as well as some of the policies and procedures. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
We look forward to working with you to make this the best club in Canada. Thank you in advance for a great and exciting ski season.
We love to ski. Thanks for joining us!
Pierre Luc Dumoulin
Executive Director,
Lake Louise Athletic Development Association
executivedirector@lakelouiseclubs.com
www.lakelouisegrizzlies.ca
MISSON, VISION, VALUES
Who Are We?
We are the Lake Louise Grizzlies Ski Club, passionate about skiing and dedicated to our athletes’ development, having fun & building a community of friends.
Our Mission
The Lake Louise Grizzlies Ski Club is committed to an athlete centered approach.
We harness the big mountain terrain of our home at Lake Louise to push limits and overcome boundaries, developing outstanding lifelong skiers.
Our Vision
The Lake Louise Grizzlies Ski Club is Canada’s greatest environment for achieving personal excellence & inspiring a lifelong passion for skiing.
Our Values
Trust
LLGSC Family
Commitment
Perseverance
Sportsmanship
Personal Excellence
Athlete Centered Development
Who Are We?
We are the Lake Louise Grizzlies Ski Club, passionate about skiing and dedicated to our athletes’ development, having fun & building a community of friends.
Our Mission
The Lake Louise Grizzlies Ski Club is committed to an athlete centered approach.
We harness the big mountain terrain of our home at Lake Louise to push limits and overcome boundaries, developing outstanding lifelong skiers.
Our Vision
The Lake Louise Grizzlies Ski Club is Canada’s greatest environment for achieving personal excellence & inspiring a lifelong passion for skiing.
Our Values
Trust
LLGSC Family
Commitment
Perseverance
Sportsmanship
Personal Excellence
Athlete Centered Development
LLGSC GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Our Lake Louise Grizzlies Ski Club coaches are guided by these fundamental principles that ensure the quality of what we do:
General Ski Athleticism
Our goal is to develop “general ski athleticism” in our athletes. From a young age we use the great terrain at Lake Louise Ski Area to train athletes to do just about anything on a pair of skis. Regardless of what an athlete’s goals are in skiing, they need to be well-rounded skiers before specializing in any particular area.
Athlete Centered Approach
We use an athlete centered approach. This means we strive to do what is in the best interest of each and every athlete. This is not always the most convenient or the easiest, but we believe that an athlete centered approach provides the most benefit to athlete development and well-being.
Life Skills
Our athletes are developing in many ways and gaining valuable life skills. Developing an athlete’s character, their ability to work in a team environment, fair play practices, and learning to win and lose like a winner are all woven into our programming. Setting goals and working to achieve them is something that we aim to teach from a young age.
Individual Programs
We look to individualize programs as much as possible - especially as the athletes become more mature. We coach to individuals, but we are a very team-based club that aspires to form a family atmosphere where everyone is included and accepted equally. This is reflected in our planning and programming.
Long-Term Athlete Development
We train our young skiers towards future success in the directions that they choose, whether that is racing, skier cross, all mountain, or just skiing recreationally. There is a time for athletes to form their own goals and decide the direction that they want to take their skiing. All our programming and planning is based on our long-term development plan where our main goal is to have our athlete’s skiers for life. We focus our programs on skill development and windows of opportunities. Their futures are very determined by their wants and desires, and we aim to help them to achieve their athletic goals.
Family and Social Environment
The Lake Louise Ski Clubs purposely develop a true ski community. Parents, coaches, and athletes enjoy the friendships and social aspects of the club. Some say we are an extended ski family as we all share in the development of the young people in our club. We know that this ski community we nurture makes us a stronger, more successful and fun club.
R.I.S.E. Philosophy
Respect - We will respect everyone
Inclusion - We will include everyone
Supportive - We will support all teammates & competitors
Effort - Always working hard, always having fun
Our Lake Louise Grizzlies Ski Club coaches are guided by these fundamental principles that ensure the quality of what we do:
General Ski Athleticism
Our goal is to develop “general ski athleticism” in our athletes. From a young age we use the great terrain at Lake Louise Ski Area to train athletes to do just about anything on a pair of skis. Regardless of what an athlete’s goals are in skiing, they need to be well-rounded skiers before specializing in any particular area.
Athlete Centered Approach
We use an athlete centered approach. This means we strive to do what is in the best interest of each and every athlete. This is not always the most convenient or the easiest, but we believe that an athlete centered approach provides the most benefit to athlete development and well-being.
Life Skills
Our athletes are developing in many ways and gaining valuable life skills. Developing an athlete’s character, their ability to work in a team environment, fair play practices, and learning to win and lose like a winner are all woven into our programming. Setting goals and working to achieve them is something that we aim to teach from a young age.
Individual Programs
We look to individualize programs as much as possible - especially as the athletes become more mature. We coach to individuals, but we are a very team-based club that aspires to form a family atmosphere where everyone is included and accepted equally. This is reflected in our planning and programming.
Long-Term Athlete Development
We train our young skiers towards future success in the directions that they choose, whether that is racing, skier cross, all mountain, or just skiing recreationally. There is a time for athletes to form their own goals and decide the direction that they want to take their skiing. All our programming and planning is based on our long-term development plan where our main goal is to have our athlete’s skiers for life. We focus our programs on skill development and windows of opportunities. Their futures are very determined by their wants and desires, and we aim to help them to achieve their athletic goals.
Family and Social Environment
The Lake Louise Ski Clubs purposely develop a true ski community. Parents, coaches, and athletes enjoy the friendships and social aspects of the club. Some say we are an extended ski family as we all share in the development of the young people in our club. We know that this ski community we nurture makes us a stronger, more successful and fun club.
R.I.S.E. Philosophy
Respect - We will respect everyone
Inclusion - We will include everyone
Supportive - We will support all teammates & competitors
Effort - Always working hard, always having fun
EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Important - Having the proper equipment and the proper fit is crucial for a successful season!!
It is the Coaches job to guide the athletes through skill development encouraging personal and athletic growth. The success for each child will be limited if their skis are too long, too short; or their boots are too stiff, poles too short, etc.
We highly recommended that all athletes wear their boots a few times PRIOR to their first day on snow. This will allow them to identify any issues with fit and comfort. It will also reacclimatize them to the feel of a boot allowing them to enjoy the first weekend on snow.
There are different rules and recommendations for the various groups; please find your athlete's program below and you will find the equipment recommendations that pertains to them.
Important - Having the proper equipment and the proper fit is crucial for a successful season!!
It is the Coaches job to guide the athletes through skill development encouraging personal and athletic growth. The success for each child will be limited if their skis are too long, too short; or their boots are too stiff, poles too short, etc.
We highly recommended that all athletes wear their boots a few times PRIOR to their first day on snow. This will allow them to identify any issues with fit and comfort. It will also reacclimatize them to the feel of a boot allowing them to enjoy the first weekend on snow.
There are different rules and recommendations for the various groups; please find your athlete's program below and you will find the equipment recommendations that pertains to them.
Skis – Standing in ski boots, stand the ski up in front of the athlete and the skis should be somewhere between the athlete’s lips and their eyebrows. We strongly encourage these athletes have a combi or SL cut ski.
Free Skis – One pair of skis to use for free skiing around the mountain. These can be twin tips, old race skis, etc. These are optional but highly recommended so as to not damage their race skis when conditions are marginal.
Boots - A one or two buckle boot for our youngest athletes graduating to a 3 – 4 buckle boot depending on strength with a snug but not uncomfortable fit is key. Ideally the child can flex the boot (movement in the upper part of the boot) but their strength and size can sometimes limit this ability. We strongly encourage you to seek the help of professionals at the ski stores.
Poles - when standing in ski boots, have the athlete hold their poles upside down with their hand under the basket, their arms should be, at the very least, at a right angle. If anything, their hands should be even a little higher (creating a smaller angle/closer distance between hand and shoulder) to account for the extra inch or so of height that they will have with their skis on. Poles will be introduced in our Cubs program within the first 3 – 4 weeks of the program. As such, please do NOT bring poles to the first day. You athlete’s coach will let you know when they are needed.
Helmet - Helmets should have a hard shell and padding must cover the head (front and back) and the ears. A good snug fit is what is most important, when the helmet is on and done up have your child shake their head yes and then no, there should be very little to no movement of the helmet. If you can find this in a full hard shell, great. If not, you can select a hard shell with soft ears, they come in the smallest of sizes.
Speed Suit – All athletes are permitted to train in suits however, the age at which athletes are able to race in them seems to fluctuate each year. If you are interested in a suit for races please contact your coach to get the most up to date information from Alberta Alpine. This is purely an OPTIONAL piece which has little to no effect on an athlete’s time but can provide a boost of confidence.
Shinners – This is the introduction piece to armour protection. As the athlete becomes more proficient in their line in stubby gates they will need shin protection.
Free Skis – One pair of skis to use for free skiing around the mountain. These can be twin tips, old race skis, etc. These are optional but highly recommended so as to not damage their race skis when conditions are marginal.
Boots - A one or two buckle boot for our youngest athletes graduating to a 3 – 4 buckle boot depending on strength with a snug but not uncomfortable fit is key. Ideally the child can flex the boot (movement in the upper part of the boot) but their strength and size can sometimes limit this ability. We strongly encourage you to seek the help of professionals at the ski stores.
Poles - when standing in ski boots, have the athlete hold their poles upside down with their hand under the basket, their arms should be, at the very least, at a right angle. If anything, their hands should be even a little higher (creating a smaller angle/closer distance between hand and shoulder) to account for the extra inch or so of height that they will have with their skis on. Poles will be introduced in our Cubs program within the first 3 – 4 weeks of the program. As such, please do NOT bring poles to the first day. You athlete’s coach will let you know when they are needed.
Helmet - Helmets should have a hard shell and padding must cover the head (front and back) and the ears. A good snug fit is what is most important, when the helmet is on and done up have your child shake their head yes and then no, there should be very little to no movement of the helmet. If you can find this in a full hard shell, great. If not, you can select a hard shell with soft ears, they come in the smallest of sizes.
Speed Suit – All athletes are permitted to train in suits however, the age at which athletes are able to race in them seems to fluctuate each year. If you are interested in a suit for races please contact your coach to get the most up to date information from Alberta Alpine. This is purely an OPTIONAL piece which has little to no effect on an athlete’s time but can provide a boost of confidence.
Shinners – This is the introduction piece to armour protection. As the athlete becomes more proficient in their line in stubby gates they will need shin protection.
REFUND POLICY
COVID-19 Update
We recognize the uncertainty that exists right now with the operation of the LLSC programs for the 2020/2021 season. As a result, we will not start taking payments beyond the deposit until we have more details on the operation of Lake Louise Ski Resort for next season and that we are able to offer our regular programming. As such, we have moved our first installment payment until September 30 to ensure we have more clarity surrounding the upcoming season.
Any withdrawals from programs after September 25, 2020 and up to November 1, 2020 will be subject to a full refund minus a 3% administration fee. After November 1, 2020, assuming we have confirmation our season will be proceeding as planned, our following refund policy will apply.
Conditions
Program offerings are subject to enrolment. Lake Louise Ski Clubs reserves the right to combine programs as required. Program days should be considered guidelines as skiing is an outdoor sport and weather may impede the clubs' ability to meet allotted program days.
General Refund Policy
General refunds will only be considered up to and including the program start date or December 1, whichever comes first. Alberta Alpine registration, National Card, Canada West Pass and Fundraising fees cannot be refunded as these are paid to third parties. Deposits are non-refundable and we will withhold a 3% administration fee.
Injured Athlete Refund Policy
Refunds will only be offered in the case of athlete injury in which the participant is unable to continue in the program. A doctor’s certificate is required. The refund credit is determined according to the following:
COVID Cancellation/ Refund Policy
COVID days are defined as days missed due to ski hill closure or if the ski club is unable to offer programming for COVID related reasons.
If we have to cancel days as a result of COVID-19 restrictions, a refund would be applied as follow:
LLGSC – U8, U10
- $25/day cash refund
This policy will be monitored as the guidelines from Alberta Health Services and Alberta Alpine might evolve during the 2020/ 2021 season. Any changes to this policy will be communicated to all the membership.
Refunds for all other situations are at the sole discretion of the Lake Louise Clubs’ Boards of Directors. Lake Louise Ski Clubs’ reserve the right to modify this policy for the extraordinary situations.
COVID-19 Update
We recognize the uncertainty that exists right now with the operation of the LLSC programs for the 2020/2021 season. As a result, we will not start taking payments beyond the deposit until we have more details on the operation of Lake Louise Ski Resort for next season and that we are able to offer our regular programming. As such, we have moved our first installment payment until September 30 to ensure we have more clarity surrounding the upcoming season.
Any withdrawals from programs after September 25, 2020 and up to November 1, 2020 will be subject to a full refund minus a 3% administration fee. After November 1, 2020, assuming we have confirmation our season will be proceeding as planned, our following refund policy will apply.
Conditions
Program offerings are subject to enrolment. Lake Louise Ski Clubs reserves the right to combine programs as required. Program days should be considered guidelines as skiing is an outdoor sport and weather may impede the clubs' ability to meet allotted program days.
General Refund Policy
General refunds will only be considered up to and including the program start date or December 1, whichever comes first. Alberta Alpine registration, National Card, Canada West Pass and Fundraising fees cannot be refunded as these are paid to third parties. Deposits are non-refundable and we will withhold a 3% administration fee.
Injured Athlete Refund Policy
Refunds will only be offered in the case of athlete injury in which the participant is unable to continue in the program. A doctor’s certificate is required. The refund credit is determined according to the following:
- Injury before Dec 1st: 75%
- Injury before Jan 15th: 50%
COVID Cancellation/ Refund Policy
COVID days are defined as days missed due to ski hill closure or if the ski club is unable to offer programming for COVID related reasons.
If we have to cancel days as a result of COVID-19 restrictions, a refund would be applied as follow:
LLGSC – U8, U10
- Missed days will be made up throughout the season
- If the programs are shutdown and we are unable to restart prior to the end of the season, then a refund will be provided taking into account accrued costs to date and costs to cease programs that will be optimized at the discretion of the Lake Louise Clubs’ Boards of Directors.
- 15+ days on snow, no refund will be offered
- Less than 15 days on snow:
- $50 /day credit towards the 2021-22 season or
- $25/day cash refund
- 30+ days on snow, no refund will be offered
- Less than 30 days on snow:
- $25/day cash refund
This policy will be monitored as the guidelines from Alberta Health Services and Alberta Alpine might evolve during the 2020/ 2021 season. Any changes to this policy will be communicated to all the membership.
Refunds for all other situations are at the sole discretion of the Lake Louise Clubs’ Boards of Directors. Lake Louise Ski Clubs’ reserve the right to modify this policy for the extraordinary situations.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need an annual ski pass?
Yes, an annual Lake Louise Ski Area Pass is your most affordable lift ticket option. We highly recommend purchasing your annual pass before October 15 for best prices. Visit Lake Louise Ski Resort at skilouise.com for further information.
Athletes in U10+ and over enjoy the opportunity to attend races hosted at other ski hills and resorts. Your coach will confirm these locations and dates with you. You will be advised if discounted tickets are available to the club. In the event they are not, you may like to explore the opportunity purchase your lift tickets in advance through Costco, Air Miles and/or Visa Points.
The Grade 2 Fun Pass and Grade 4/5 Snow Pass are other pass options available to kids. The Grade 2 fun pass is essentially the same as an annual pass. The Grade 4/5 pass gives your 3 free tickets at all Alberta and BC hills. While it does provide savings, you would need to supplement this with a Lake Louise Ski Area Annual Pass.
If my child races at other hills will I need to purchase a lift ticket?
Yes, you will need to buy lift tickets. Ski hills typically do not have group rates. If there are any specials, the lead coach will do their best to take advantage of that and pass on the savings to the parents.
If volunteers are need for a race, the club running the race and their ROC will often provide those volunteers a lift ticket and a lunch. Coaches will provide more information as it comes to them prior to the away races.
Does my child have to race?
The club offers something for everyone. If racing is not your child’s interest, please let the coach know.
Is there a club uniform?
We do have club jackets that all athletes are encouraged to purchase; this fosters a great sense of camaraderie and community among club members. Jackets are ordered in March for delivery the next season to guarantee sizes.
Our athletes ski in a wide variety of weather conditions, so layering is an important consideration for greatest comfort. A wool base layer followed by a fleece and a good technical jacket is recommended. Additionally, you should keep neck, hand and foot warmers on hand for very cold days. If it warms up in the afternoon, kids can take layers off. You can’t underestimate Lake Louise’s inversions and varying temperatures. It is really important to be prepared for all kinds of temperatures.
Does the LLSC have a designated store in Calgary/Canmore/Banff to buy equipment? Where else can I buy ski equipment?
The club does not have a designated retailer for equipment. Some retailers you may like to consult include (these are not endorsements):
Techno Sport, 211 – 17 Avenue SW, Calgary
techno-sport.com
Abominable Sports, 410 Crowchild Trail NW, Calgary
abom.ca
Ski Cellar, 3 locations in Calgary
skicellarsnowboard.com
Ski West, 300 – 14 Street NW
skiwest.ca
Soul Ski & Bike, 203A Bear Street, Banff
www.banffsoul.com
Second-hand gear is also a great option! Please watch for our Tailgate Swap or login to our member only Facebook buy and sell.
Where do families stay on ski weekends?
There is no magic formula on accommodations. It really depends on your family’s needs and preferences. Lake Louise pass holders enjoy discounted rates at many facilities and the club negotiates preferred rates when possible, so be sure to inquire about discounts at the time of booking.
Lake Louise Village
Lake Louise Inn
lakelouiseinn.com
Chateau Lake Louise
fairmont.com/lake-louise
Lake Louise Hostel
Lake_Louise_Alpine_Centre.hostel
The Mountaineer
mountaineerlodge.com
Field, BC
Truffle Pigs Lodge
trufflepigs.com
Some families opt to find a rental arrangement in Canmore or Banff. Peka (peka.ab.ca) and Asset West (assetwest.com) are two property managers who can assist with finding rental properties. The rental option enables families to cook in versus eat out and keep their gear at the rental.
If you have a winterized camper, there are camp sites in the area for use. You will want to explore your options through Parks Canada if this interests you. pc.gc.ca/eng/index.aspx
Any other tips for a fun experience?
Food! You can’t underestimate the power of fuel! A great breakfast, hearty lunch and a few pocket snacks will make for a great ski day experience for all. It is suggested that kids have their own lunch bag and know where this is in the lodge. Lunchtime can be a very busy time and parents may not be available when coaches and kids find their way to the day lodge for lunch.
Does my child need to partake in dryland?
Dryland is available for all athletes. It is available in Calgary and Canmore. See your coach for times and venues. Not all athletes partake in dryland because they are involved in other extracurricular activities. If this is the case, there is no need to attend dryland. There are other social activities to get acquainted with the kids and coaches. Stay tuned and watch your inbox.
What is the Grizzlies Lodge Parent?
The lodge parent is a volunteer shift that families are asked to fill a few times during the ski season. A sign-up sheet will be sent out and then posted. The lodge parent stays in the lodge (where most club families sit) for either a morning or afternoon shift. There is a corresponding lodge parent backpack equipped with parent phone numbers, a radio to communicate with on-hill coaches, and a few toys and snacks to occupy a child should they be unable to finish out the day on the slopes. The hill can be very busy at times and it is a very large resort. Having a “safe parent/adult” identified to all of our athletes by the back-pack allows for a safe place for them to go should they not be able to see or find their own parent or coach for any reason. This is also a great way to locate your child's group on snow via the radio should you arrive late for any reason. Please note this is not a place to leave your child for the day if they are unable to ski. This is a resource for coaches so they can drop athletes and continue to ski with the rest of their group as well as a safe place for lost athletes.
What happens if my child gets injured?
The coaches all have an Emergency Action Plan that they must follow in order to keep all of their athlete’s safe while seeing to the needs of the injured child. If the child is able to get up and continue without any assistance then Ski Patrol will not be called but may later be visited should the coach feel this is necessary. Parents will always be informed of any and all crashes that may or may not need follow up. Should a child be unable to get up on their own for any reason the Ski Patrol is always called. The coaches refer to their expert opinion.
What happens if my child gets lost?
Should a child go missing from a group while skiing the coach immediately sends word over the radio – providing as much detail about the missing child as possible. This enables other coaches to assist in locating the missing child. The athletes are told to go directly to the base of last chairlift they rode or the nearest chair lift if the other is not possible. Athletes are told to then identify themselves to the lift operators as a “lost Grizzly” - thus allowing a Coach to locate them via any of the other lift operators and their radios. This also means that the child has somewhere warm to wait should the weather be inclement.
Parents, should you come across a “lost Grizzly” please accompany them to the above-mentioned chairlifts and wait WITH them for their coach. Should you feel that it is best to escort them to the base of the mountain please do so ONLY after informing the lift operators of this – that way the search will stop and the coach will know to head to the base to meet you and the “lost Grizzly”.
What are Race Accounts?
These are accounts that families with athletes competing in Competitions or Races pay into. The amount requested for the accounts is based upon the program that the athlete is registered in. Programs with more competitions/races need to have a larger amount of money deposited into them.
When athletes attend races, there are extra fees that are not included in registration as not every athlete attends every competition. Therefore, those who do attend are required to split the cost of the coaches' expenses with the other athletes attending – this comes out of the race accounts. Most competitions also have an entry fee. The club pays this fee for all athletes and then the event/race accounts are again charged back.
If more money is needed throughout the season due to higher fees/expenses than expected a request will be made. Otherwise all event/race accounts are reconciled at the end of the season.
If my child is unable to complete the program, for any reason, can we get a refund on our program fees?
Unfortunately, this is not possible. Coaches are hired based upon registration. These are hard costs for the club and therefore registration costs cannot be refunded. We offer several programs within the club and would be happy to try to move your athlete around should there be space in other programs that may better suit them.
Do I need an annual ski pass?
Yes, an annual Lake Louise Ski Area Pass is your most affordable lift ticket option. We highly recommend purchasing your annual pass before October 15 for best prices. Visit Lake Louise Ski Resort at skilouise.com for further information.
Athletes in U10+ and over enjoy the opportunity to attend races hosted at other ski hills and resorts. Your coach will confirm these locations and dates with you. You will be advised if discounted tickets are available to the club. In the event they are not, you may like to explore the opportunity purchase your lift tickets in advance through Costco, Air Miles and/or Visa Points.
The Grade 2 Fun Pass and Grade 4/5 Snow Pass are other pass options available to kids. The Grade 2 fun pass is essentially the same as an annual pass. The Grade 4/5 pass gives your 3 free tickets at all Alberta and BC hills. While it does provide savings, you would need to supplement this with a Lake Louise Ski Area Annual Pass.
If my child races at other hills will I need to purchase a lift ticket?
Yes, you will need to buy lift tickets. Ski hills typically do not have group rates. If there are any specials, the lead coach will do their best to take advantage of that and pass on the savings to the parents.
If volunteers are need for a race, the club running the race and their ROC will often provide those volunteers a lift ticket and a lunch. Coaches will provide more information as it comes to them prior to the away races.
Does my child have to race?
The club offers something for everyone. If racing is not your child’s interest, please let the coach know.
Is there a club uniform?
We do have club jackets that all athletes are encouraged to purchase; this fosters a great sense of camaraderie and community among club members. Jackets are ordered in March for delivery the next season to guarantee sizes.
Our athletes ski in a wide variety of weather conditions, so layering is an important consideration for greatest comfort. A wool base layer followed by a fleece and a good technical jacket is recommended. Additionally, you should keep neck, hand and foot warmers on hand for very cold days. If it warms up in the afternoon, kids can take layers off. You can’t underestimate Lake Louise’s inversions and varying temperatures. It is really important to be prepared for all kinds of temperatures.
Does the LLSC have a designated store in Calgary/Canmore/Banff to buy equipment? Where else can I buy ski equipment?
The club does not have a designated retailer for equipment. Some retailers you may like to consult include (these are not endorsements):
Techno Sport, 211 – 17 Avenue SW, Calgary
techno-sport.com
Abominable Sports, 410 Crowchild Trail NW, Calgary
abom.ca
Ski Cellar, 3 locations in Calgary
skicellarsnowboard.com
Ski West, 300 – 14 Street NW
skiwest.ca
Soul Ski & Bike, 203A Bear Street, Banff
www.banffsoul.com
Second-hand gear is also a great option! Please watch for our Tailgate Swap or login to our member only Facebook buy and sell.
Where do families stay on ski weekends?
There is no magic formula on accommodations. It really depends on your family’s needs and preferences. Lake Louise pass holders enjoy discounted rates at many facilities and the club negotiates preferred rates when possible, so be sure to inquire about discounts at the time of booking.
Lake Louise Village
Lake Louise Inn
lakelouiseinn.com
Chateau Lake Louise
fairmont.com/lake-louise
Lake Louise Hostel
Lake_Louise_Alpine_Centre.hostel
The Mountaineer
mountaineerlodge.com
Field, BC
Truffle Pigs Lodge
trufflepigs.com
Some families opt to find a rental arrangement in Canmore or Banff. Peka (peka.ab.ca) and Asset West (assetwest.com) are two property managers who can assist with finding rental properties. The rental option enables families to cook in versus eat out and keep their gear at the rental.
If you have a winterized camper, there are camp sites in the area for use. You will want to explore your options through Parks Canada if this interests you. pc.gc.ca/eng/index.aspx
Any other tips for a fun experience?
Food! You can’t underestimate the power of fuel! A great breakfast, hearty lunch and a few pocket snacks will make for a great ski day experience for all. It is suggested that kids have their own lunch bag and know where this is in the lodge. Lunchtime can be a very busy time and parents may not be available when coaches and kids find their way to the day lodge for lunch.
Does my child need to partake in dryland?
Dryland is available for all athletes. It is available in Calgary and Canmore. See your coach for times and venues. Not all athletes partake in dryland because they are involved in other extracurricular activities. If this is the case, there is no need to attend dryland. There are other social activities to get acquainted with the kids and coaches. Stay tuned and watch your inbox.
What is the Grizzlies Lodge Parent?
The lodge parent is a volunteer shift that families are asked to fill a few times during the ski season. A sign-up sheet will be sent out and then posted. The lodge parent stays in the lodge (where most club families sit) for either a morning or afternoon shift. There is a corresponding lodge parent backpack equipped with parent phone numbers, a radio to communicate with on-hill coaches, and a few toys and snacks to occupy a child should they be unable to finish out the day on the slopes. The hill can be very busy at times and it is a very large resort. Having a “safe parent/adult” identified to all of our athletes by the back-pack allows for a safe place for them to go should they not be able to see or find their own parent or coach for any reason. This is also a great way to locate your child's group on snow via the radio should you arrive late for any reason. Please note this is not a place to leave your child for the day if they are unable to ski. This is a resource for coaches so they can drop athletes and continue to ski with the rest of their group as well as a safe place for lost athletes.
What happens if my child gets injured?
The coaches all have an Emergency Action Plan that they must follow in order to keep all of their athlete’s safe while seeing to the needs of the injured child. If the child is able to get up and continue without any assistance then Ski Patrol will not be called but may later be visited should the coach feel this is necessary. Parents will always be informed of any and all crashes that may or may not need follow up. Should a child be unable to get up on their own for any reason the Ski Patrol is always called. The coaches refer to their expert opinion.
What happens if my child gets lost?
Should a child go missing from a group while skiing the coach immediately sends word over the radio – providing as much detail about the missing child as possible. This enables other coaches to assist in locating the missing child. The athletes are told to go directly to the base of last chairlift they rode or the nearest chair lift if the other is not possible. Athletes are told to then identify themselves to the lift operators as a “lost Grizzly” - thus allowing a Coach to locate them via any of the other lift operators and their radios. This also means that the child has somewhere warm to wait should the weather be inclement.
Parents, should you come across a “lost Grizzly” please accompany them to the above-mentioned chairlifts and wait WITH them for their coach. Should you feel that it is best to escort them to the base of the mountain please do so ONLY after informing the lift operators of this – that way the search will stop and the coach will know to head to the base to meet you and the “lost Grizzly”.
What are Race Accounts?
These are accounts that families with athletes competing in Competitions or Races pay into. The amount requested for the accounts is based upon the program that the athlete is registered in. Programs with more competitions/races need to have a larger amount of money deposited into them.
When athletes attend races, there are extra fees that are not included in registration as not every athlete attends every competition. Therefore, those who do attend are required to split the cost of the coaches' expenses with the other athletes attending – this comes out of the race accounts. Most competitions also have an entry fee. The club pays this fee for all athletes and then the event/race accounts are again charged back.
If more money is needed throughout the season due to higher fees/expenses than expected a request will be made. Otherwise all event/race accounts are reconciled at the end of the season.
If my child is unable to complete the program, for any reason, can we get a refund on our program fees?
Unfortunately, this is not possible. Coaches are hired based upon registration. These are hard costs for the club and therefore registration costs cannot be refunded. We offer several programs within the club and would be happy to try to move your athlete around should there be space in other programs that may better suit them.
We love to ski. Thank you for joining us.
