To register, please go to Zone4.ca: Register Now
LEARN, REFINE, ENJOY
The Fort Smith Ski Club wants to get everyone—from toddlers to adults—out on the snow, building skills, and enjoying our beautiful trails. We emphasize fun, technique, and lifelong health in a supportive community environment. Whether you're a complete beginner or an aspiring racer, get out and learn!
YOUTH PROGRAMS
Our youth programs follow the Nordic Skill Development Model, focusing on fun, fitness, and technique mastery through games and group activities. Register for youth programs on Zone4.ca.
Jackrabbits (Ages 6-10)
This is the cornerstone of Canadian cross-country skiing! Jackrabbits introduces children to the fundamentals of classic skiing in a supportive, fun-filled setting. Kids learn basic techniques, fitness, and safety through engaging games and trail adventures, focusing on a love for the sport. Jackrabbits will acquire basic ski skills while developing agility, balance, coordination and speed with an emphasis on FUN and participation! The essential goal of Jackrabbits is to provide children with FUNdamental physical and cross-country ski skills as a foundation to participate in SPORT-FOR-LIFE. Additional activities include Candy Cane Lane ski and a visit from Santa, fun day relays, and a season wind-up!
Track Attack (Ages 10-12)
Moving beyond the basics, Track Attack (TA) focuses on refining both classic and skate skiing techniques. Activities include structured skill drills, fun local challenges, and an introduction to simple training plans. This program prepares athletes for recreational touring and possible entry into competitive skiing. Track Attack is a skill development program aimed at improving skate and classic techniques in a fun and social environment. The aim of the program is to expose athletes to all things cross-country skiing, from recreational to competitive. TA will promote teamwork and personal interaction skills, and athletes will learn the basics of off-season training and develop foundational technique skills on snow, such as balance, coordination and muscle recruitment.
High Performance (Ages 13+)
Designed for older youth interested in competitive racing and high-level skill development. This program features structured training, advanced technique coaching in both classic and skate styles, strength training, and preparation for regional races, including the Arctic Winter Games, Canada Games, and the annual Thebacha Loppet.
ADULT PROGRAMS
It's never too late to learn or improve! We do not offer regular adult workshops but contact us and we will see if we can connect you with someone to give you some help.
Introduction to Cross-Country Skiing
If you have never skied before you likely want to learn the basics of classic skiing: choosing the right gear, proper gliding and kicking motions, hill techniques, and how to safely enjoy the trails. Get the confidence you need to explore our whole network.
Classic Skiing
Next, you will want to learn the foundational classic techniques, including kick-and-glide, diagonal stride, and efficient use of poles. Improve your endurance and form for a smoother, more enjoyable ski tour.
Skate Skiing
If you are an experienced classic skier, you may want to learn the dynamic, powerful movements of skate skiing. Learn the "V1," "V2," and "Free Skate" techniques to maximize speed and efficiency on groomed trails.
COACH TRAINING
The Fort Smith Ski Club invests in its volunteers! We encourage all parents and passionate skiers to consider training as a coach. Your expertise enables us to deliver high-quality programs and foster our community.
Community Stream (Focus on Participation and Fun)
These courses are designed for coaches who guide skiers in foundational skills and fun, non-competitive group activities (e.g., Jackrabbits and Track Attack).
Introduction to Community Coaching (ICC): This is the entry-level course for new coaches. It focuses on delivering fun, safe, and age-appropriate ski sessions. It covers basic teaching methods, group management, and safety protocols.
Community Coaching (CC): This training builds upon the ICC course, providing the skills to lead and design season-long programs for youth. It deepens understanding of technique, training principles, and effective communication.
Competition Stream (Focus on Performance and Training)
These courses are for coaches working with older, competitive skiers (e.g., High Performance) who are focused on training, racing, and higher-level physical development.
Competition Introduction (Comp Intro): This course is for coaches working with athletes in the Train to Train stage (typically 12-16 years old). The training focuses on seasonal planning, designing effective practices, and basic periodization of training to prepare skiers for regional and provincial competitions.
Competition Development (Comp Dev): This is the advanced certification for coaches working with athletes in the Train to Compete or Learn to Win stages (older youth and adults). This training covers complex topics, including advanced biomechanics, long-term athlete development (LTAD) principles, and sophisticated training periodization required for national-level racing.
Your involvement, regardless of the level you coach, helps us maintain excellent programs for our community!
PARENTS' CORNER
Your involvement is key to the club's success and your child's enjoyment! We are a volunteer-driven organization, and your support makes a huge difference.
Volunteer: We rely on parents to help with everything from organizing snacks to assisting coaches on the trails. Ask your program coordinator how you can pitch in!
Gear Check: Ensure your child's equipment (skis, boots, poles) is correctly sized, waxed, and ready for each session. Well-maintained gear equals more fun!
Encourage All Weather: Skiing happens rain, snow, or shine! Help your child dress in appropriate layers for the NWT conditions.
Cheer Loudly: The focus is on participation and fun. Celebrate effort and improvement over competition results!
Connect: Become part of our cross-country skiing parent community. Meet other parents, lean on them, and learn from them. Get involved in skiing yourself. Kids whose parents ski are more likely to want to ski themselves.
