Our group started sixteen years ago, in 1993, at French Regional Park. We hope for a great winter of good snow, good lessons, and good fun for 2009-2010! Robert Golin and Craig Rudd will lead the group with the help of many veteran volunteer coaches. We hope for a big snow year, otherwise we will utilize Elm Creek as an alternative again.

Our group will meet for eight Sundays, from 2 to 4 pm, from Sunday, December 27th through February 14th. Please note that there will be no formal session at French Park on Sunday, February 7th in order that our families can participate in the City Of Lakes Loppet, right here in Minneapolis. (More information on this great event closer to February).

Please be sure that all skiers, adults and children over 12, have Three Rivers trail passes.  Also, those who are renting skis may want to show up 30 minutes early.

Coaches and Volunteers

Coaches: We look forward to the return of our valued coaches and hope to recruit many more. NO experience is required, just a good sense of humor. (If you can walk, you can ski!) As the number of children in our group grows, so must the number of volunteer coaches. We welcome junior coaches, ages 13 and up, especially those who ski with their schools during the week. Please indicate on your child's registration form your coaching interest, or other ways you'd like to help, such as "team coaching" with a friend or spouse, organizing the halftime snack schedule, or running the K board. Non-parent coaches can fill out a registration form entering their information under the section marked "Adult".

Volunteers: This league is run by volunteers. You are the main reason for the success and affordability of the program. We expect at least one adult volunteer for each family of skiers registered. Please fill in the information on the registration form. If you are bringing a child that has not been to first grade yet, we REQUIRE that you be with your skier. We also ask each First Stepper (first level of skiing) be accompanied by an adult. They love showing you what they can do! Our desire is to ensure that everyone is safe, comfortable, and having a good time. If your child is learning to skate ski, feel free to learn along with them!

Weather and cancellation policy and clothing

Weather and cancellation policy: We will meet regardless of snow conditions, sometimes going to Elm Creek Park for man-made snow. If the temperature is forecast to be colder than -10° F, or if wind chills are forecast to be colder than -15° F, there will be a cancellation announcement via email. If the snow is not "skiable", we will still meet and play age appropriate games or pole hike. To be safe, always bring your ski equipment. Rental equipment is available at the French Park chalet. Those who intend to rent should allow 30 minutes to complete the rental process. In case of cancellation, we will update our French park website and try to contact members via email Sunday morning.

Clothing: Dress in layers, with polypropylene or a similar wicking layer close to the skin. Add one or more insulating layers over that, depending on the temperature. Finally, you will need a wind-breaking outer layer that sheds the snow (we fall down and roll in the snow for fun, you know!). Warm mittens (or gloves for older skiers) and good dry socks are a must!

Registration

The French Park Youth Ski Club encourages on-line registration at www.mysl.org  Please note that there is now a new online registration system that promises to be much more user friendly.  Also, consider registering by December 14th to avoid the $5 per child price increase.

Announcements

 During the ski season, lesson groups will tend to meet in specific locations in the following weeks. French Park will host an end-of season party on Sunday, February 14th, complete with Root Beer Relays and Beanie Baby Biathlon.

Contact info

We're looking forward to another successful year of skiing. If you have any ski-related questions or suggestions call either Robert Golin at 763-478-9223 or Craig Rudd at 763-529-1357 or email us. We'll see you on the trails.

golin_robert@hotmail.com 

craig@financialgps.net