Ending the 09/10 ski season with a bang!

Growing up, I was not part of the 'sunny vacation' norm. I spent my vacations skiing in Alberta or Quebec, not tanning in Mexico or Florida like the majority of my classmates. My parents were always physically fit and often put me and my brother into various sports (gymnastics, baseball, tennis). Skiing was the only sport that seemed to stick and something we could enjoy as a family.

I became more involved in the ski industry when I was 16, I obtained my CSIA (Canadian Ski Instructors' Alliance) level 1 and my CSCF (Canadian Ski Coaches Federation) level 1.

Because of my school schedule this year, I decided to take the ski season off and focused on my studies. As the winter progressed I realized...snow is no fun if you aren't skiing on it! My lack of 'on snow' time and the passing of the Vancouver Olympics inspired me to get some skiing done before the snow melted, so this past week I went on my CSIA level 2 course. For those who aren't familiar with CSIA, the level 2 course is a five day evaluation, lasting from 9a.m. to 4:30p.m. each day, where you are graded separately on your skiing and teaching ability.

Our level 2 group - course conductor: Doug Leeming (far left) and Jim Morris (far right)

As of today, I am happy to say that I am a CSIA level 2/CSCF level 1. The level 2 course has reignited my passion for skiing and has inspired me to improve on my skiing and teaching abilities.

It's true what people say, you don't realize how much you miss something until it's gone. Luckily for me, winter comes back ever November. With the end of the 09/10 ski season just a week or two away, I have already started my plans for December, and there is no doubt in my mind that I will be back on the slopes! Maybe teaching skiing in Japan if I'm lucky? ;)