Unlock Your Peak Performance
Ottawa Sports Alpine Club
Are you graduating from a Nancy Greene or recreational ski racing program and looking to take your skills to the next level? Ottawa Sports Alpine Club is perfect for those seeking a variety of training locations, high-level coaching, and a united team training environment. Whether you're a rookie or elite, we've got you covered.
Unlock your athletic potential with the Ottawa Sports Alpine Club. Our mantra, "Train Smart, Train Hard, Train Together", isn't just a slogan, but a strategic approach to optimizing performance and building a competitive ski team. As we gear up for our exciting 2024/2025 winter season, we invite ambitious athletes like you to take their skills to new heights.
Standing out with variety
Unique to Ottawa Sports Alpine Club, we offer dynamic training across various locations, providing an advantage over racers accustomed to just one hill. While races are an option, our focus lies in enhancing an athlete's technique, performance, mindset, and confidence. If competing sparks your interest, our coaches will guide you in signing up for races in the National Capital Division & Outaouais Region.
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Mount Pakenham
Calabogie Peaks
Centre Vorlage
Mont Cascades
Summit Edelweiss
Mont Ste-Marie
Camp Fortune
Mont Blanc (For away camps)
Mont Tremblant (For away camps)
Stay tuned for more locations closer to the season start date.
UNITED TOGETHER
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UNITED TOGETHER 〰️
Elite Coaching Staff
At Ottawa Sports Alpine Club, our coaching team stands as a beacon of excellence, with a remarkable 80% holding top-tier Level 3/4 and/or DL/PL certifications from CSIA & ACA. As leaders in the skiing industry, they possess qualifications that less than 20% of candidates achieve, underscoring their exceptional expertise and commitment. These elite certifications demand extensive practical experience and an advanced ability to analyze and teach intricate skiing techniques. Many with degrees in Kinesiology, our coaches are not just skiing experts but also specialists in human movement and performance. Enhancing our team further, Ottawa Sports also has on-staff Mental Preformace Coaches who contribute to our club’s holistic approach, focusing on mental strength and resilience. Their unyielding dedication to continuous learning keeps our staff at the cutting edge of coaching innovation. Join us at Ottawa Sports Alpine Club and see how our dedicated professionals can dramatically enhance your athletic capabilities and elevate your performance to unprecedented levels. Notably, Ottawa Sports Alpine Club Head Coach, Nicholas Hammell, was named the 2024 Alpine Ontario Coach of the Year at the November 2024 Ontario Ski Racing Awards.
Who should join us?
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Ottawa Sports Alpine Club is not just a place for honing skiing skills; it's a dynamic community of passionate athletes with a shared commitment to self-improvement, teamwork, and achievement. We welcome those who:
Are graduates of a Nancy Greene program (U10 +), seeking a higher competitive edge.
Desire to train in gates and receive high-level coaching, even if not planning to race due to nerves or personal preference.
Plan to participate in high school racing on the Level 2 circuit.
Aspire to experience competitive club training and develop race literacy.
Seek an inclusive, non-judgmental, and supportive environment to train and compete.
Value personal growth and performance enhancement, both in and out of gates.
Aim to compete against other Alpine Ontario (AOA)/National Capital Division (NCD) teams, or on the FIS circuit.
Potential competitors could be clubs such as Calabogie Ski Racing Club, Vorlage Race Club, Club Mont Ste-Marie, or other renowned AOA/NCD/OSZ teams.
By joining Ottawa Sports Alpine Club, you're preparing for high-level competitions, striving to perform at your best in the area of regional, provincial, or even national ski racing, or simply seeking to improve your skiing skills in a supportive and professional environment.
Our Team Environment
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At Ottawa Sports, we believe in the transformative power of camaraderie in sports. As a member of Ottawa Sports Alpine Club, you're not just joining a ski club; you're becoming part of a team that nurtures personal growth, encourages collaborative problem-solving, and celebrates individual and collective victories.
Our club thrives on a potent blend of respect, integrity, and mutual support. We foster a safe, inclusive environment where all members, new and returning, are encouraged to express themselves, exchange ideas, and offer assistance to one another. It's our firm belief that each member has unique skills and experiences that enrich our community, ultimately contributing to the team's overall success.
Guided by our motto, "Train Smart, Train Hard, Train Together," we promote a positive mental environment conducive to both personal and group development. Each training session becomes a shared endeavor, a collective quest for excellence that bonds us together and drives us to continually push our boundaries.
By choosing Ottawa Sports Alpine Club, you're choosing more than a training program; you're choosing a vibrant, supportive community that will inspire you to strive for greatness and exceed your own expectations.
Alpine Club Programs
At Ottawa Sports Alpine Club, we believe in setting a training schedule that encourages balance. This means giving our athletes ample time to train intensively, but also making sure they have time for other aspects of life—family, friends, schoolwork, and other sports or hobbies. Our training layout and program options provide robust skiing opportunities while respecting our athletes' need for downtime and variety.
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Our Core Program is the premier choice for new and experienced athletes committed to excelling in alpine ski racing. This program is designed for those seeking intensive training, with a minimum of two sessions per week, additional optional training days, and opportunities to compete in high-level races.
Sundays (8:30 am to 2:30 pm): As an innovative traveling club, every Sunday, we visit a different hill near Ottawa to focus on refining our athletes' techniques. These sessions emphasize perfect skill execution without the use of gates, aiming to develop versatile, technically proficient skiers. Athletes tackle a variety of terrains, from short carved turns to challenging bump runs, building the foundational skills necessary for competitive racing. Each session includes a 45-minute to 1-hour lunch break and any needed individual breaks to ensure athletes remain comfortable and energized.
Wednesday Nights (5:00 pm to 9:00 pm): Wednesday nights are dedicated to intense Slalom training, primarily held at Mount Pakenham. These sessions focus on precision and speed through gates, with rigorous lap training using full gates, stubbies, and brushes, enhanced by extensive video recording and analysis. Additionally, a few Wednesday nights are devoted to Giant Slalom training at local hills in the Outaouais. A 30-minute break is provided, along with any necessary individual breaks to maintain peak performance.
Friday Nights (Optional/extra training 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm): For those committed to additional practice, Friday evenings offer an extra training block. Coaches conduct one hour of skill-based training followed by four hours of intensive gate training. These sessions, held at local hills in the Outaouais area, provide athletes with the opportunity to further sharpen their skills and gain a competitive edge. A 30-minute break is included, along with any needed individual breaks to maintain peak performance.
Conclusion:
The Core Program at Ottawa Sports Alpine Club is designed for new and experienced athletes dedicated to alpine ski racing. With a rigorous schedule that balances technical skill development and gate training, our program equips athletes with the expertise and experience needed to excel in competitions. Join us to push your limits, master your craft, and become part of an elite skiing community committed to excellence in racing.
Train Smart - Train Hard - Train Together; Be The Exception
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The Flex Program is designed for athletes who either want to compete in alpine ski racing with a reduced training schedule or those who no longer wish to compete but still want to train in gates with elite-level coaching. This program is ideal for balancing a heavy academic load or for athletes currently in the Nancy Green or Clifford Race programs looking to transition into the competitive world.
Wednesday Nights (5:00 pm to 9:00 pm):
The Flex Program trains alongside the Core Program on Wednesday nights, focusing on precision and speed through intensive gate training sessions. These sessions include rigorous lap training using full gates, stubbies, and brushes, enhanced by video recording and analysis. Training typically takes place at Mount Pakenham, with occasional sessions dedicated to Giant Slalom training at local hills in the Outaouais.
Program Highlights:
Balanced Schedule: Perfect for those with demanding academic workloads, the Flex Program allows athletes to maintain their studies while still participating in high-level ski training.
Gateway to Competition: Ideal for Nancy Green or Clifford Race program participants, this program offers a stepping stone into competitive racing, providing the challenges of competitive course sets.
Elite Coaching: Athletes receive the same elite-level coaching as the Core Program participants, ensuring high-quality training and skill development.
Flexible Participation: Sundays and Fridays are optional for Flex Program athletes, allowing them to join additional training sessions based on their availability and commitment level.
Cost-Effective: The Flex Program is slightly cheaper than the Core Program, making it an accessible option for those looking to gain competitive experience or continue training without a full-time commitment.
Conclusion:
The Flex Program at Ottawa Sports Alpine Club offers a balanced, flexible, and cost-effective entry into alpine ski racing or continued elite-level training. Whether you're looking to compete or simply want to train with top coaches, the Flex Program provides the perfect opportunity to develop your skills and enjoy the thrill of alpine skiing. Join us to train, compete, and be part of a supportive skiing community.
Train Smart - Train Hard - Train Together; Be The Exception
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New for the 2024/2025 season, the Midweek Momentum Program fills a crucial gap within the National Capital Division, offering a perfect bridge between recreational and competitive alpine skiing.
Program Details:
Schedule: Takes place Wednesday nights at Mount Pakenham, running for 10 weeks from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Step-Up Training: Designed as a progression from the Ottawa Sports Snow School, Nancy Green, and Clifford race programs, providing more focused and advanced training.
Small Group Training: Athletes train in small groups, typically maintaining a 5:1 athlete-to-coach ratio, and sometimes even 4:1.
Age Requirements: Athletes must be 8 years old by December 31st, 2024 and cannot exceed 12 years old by December 31st, 2024. If you are under 8 but feel this program would be a good fit, we are always happy to consider young, ambitious skiers. We may ask for a video of them skiing as a prerequisite.
Three-Part Session: Each evening is divided into three focused training blocks:
6:00 pm to 7:00 pm: Athletes work on their skiing technique, including short turns, early edge initiation, long turns, mastering the outside ski, and gaining a feel for speed.
7:00 pm to 8:00 pm: Training in brushies and stubbies set by our coaches, helping athletes get a feel for racing and understanding the dynamics of gate skiing. Towards the end of the season, they may have the chance to ski in mini gates.
8:00 pm to 9:00 pm: The evening concludes with further ski development, focusing on skills that need improvement based on the previous gate training session, ensuring well-rounded and proficient skiers.
Program Benefits:
Advanced Coaching: Athletes receive higher-end coaching and more focused skill development, tailored to their individual needs.
Intro to Competitive Racing: Provides a solid introduction to competitive racing, with courses set to Alpine Ontario standards, making it an excellent stepping stone for future competitive racers.
Cost-Effective: This program is a more affordable alternative to our full competitive race programs, making it accessible for a wider range of athletes.
Conclusion:
The Midweek Momentum Program is ideal for young athletes looking to advance from the Ottawa Sports Snow School or entry-level racing programs. With high-quality coaching, small group sizes, and a structured training schedule, this program offers a comprehensive introduction to competitive racing and advanced skill development. Join us to take your skiing to the next level in a supportive and focused environment.
Train Smart - Train Hard - Train Together; Be The Exception
Ottawa Sports proudly aligns itself with Athletics Canada's Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model as described by Canadian Sport for Life.
Core Program
Compulsory Fees:
Program Cost: $1650
(Includes training on Sundays and Wednesdays)Ottawa Sports Membership: $250
(Membership includes a 25% discount on camps, 15% off extra training days, free T-shirt, tuning clinic, family discounted lift tickets and Karbon, and exclusive social events)Alpine Ontario Athlete Card: Purchase through Alpine Ontario. This fee is not collected by Ottawa Sports. Approx $300, covers athlete insurance, points, etc. Click here to register with AOA.
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Race Fees:
Note: For athletes entering races & events, there is normally a fee around $125.
Dry-land Fees:
Note: For athletes doing in person dry-land training, there is normally a $15 fee.
Club Jacket:
Athletes are strongly encouraged to own a club jacket to show unity and community spirt within the Ottawa Sports Alpine Club. Our club jacket cost $550, and are made by Karbon.
Training Camps:
Note: Core athletes are strongly encouraged to attend all camps. Pre-season camp is essential for a successful season and should take priority.
Pre-Season Tremblant Camp:
December 19th to 22nd
Members: $300
Non-Members: $400
End of Season Slush Camp:
Location and Dates TBD - 3-day camp)
Members: $225
Non-Members: $300
Extra Training:
Note: Core athletes are strongly encouraged to attend Friday nights.
Friday Night Training:
Members: $85
Non-Members: $100
Flex Program
Compulsory Fees:
Program Cost: $750
(Includes training on Wednesdays)Ottawa Sports Membership: $250
(Membership includes a 25% discount on camps, 15% off extra training days, free T-shirt, tuning clinic, family discounted lift tickets and Karbon, and exclusive social events)Alpine Ontario Athlete Card: Purchase through Alpine Ontario. This fee is not collected by Ottawa Sports. Approx $300, covers athlete insurance, points, etc. Click here to register with AOA.
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Race Fees:
Note: For athletes entering races & events, there is normally a fee around $125.
Dry-land Fees:
Note: For athletes doing in person dry-land training, there is normally a $15 fee.
Club Jacket:
Athletes are strongly encouraged to own a club jacket to show unity and community spirt within the Ottawa Sports Alpine Club. Our club jacket cost $550, and are made by Karbon.
Training Camps:
Note: Flex athletes are strongly encouraged to attend all camps. Pre-season camp is essential for a successful season and should take priority.
Pre-Season Tremblant Camp:
December 19th to 22nd
Members: $300
Non-Members: $400
End of Season Slush Camp:
Location and Dates TBD - 3-day camp)
Members: $225
Non-Members: $300
Extra Training:
Note: Flex athletes are encouraged to attend extra training when possible.
Sunday Training:
Members: $76.50
Non-Members: $90
Friday Night Training:
Members: $85
Non-Members: $100
Midweek Momentum Program
Compulsory Fees:
Program Cost: $750
(Includes training on Wednesdays)
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Membership Options:
Note: If your athlete will be attending camps or extra training, you might want to opt in for our membership at registration checkout.
Dry-land Fees:
Note: For athletes doing in person dry-land training, there is normally a $15 fee.
Club Jacket:
Athletes are strongly encouraged to own a club jacket to show unity and community spirt within the Ottawa Sports Alpine Club. Our club jacket cost $550, and are made by Karbon.
Ottawa Sports Membership:
Cost: $250
Membership includes a 25% discount on camps, 15% off extra training days, free T-shirt, tuning clinic, family discounted lift tickets and Karbon, and exclusive social events.
Race Fees:
Note: This program option does not offer competition opportunities - this program is designed to give athletes a taste of racing before fully committing.
Training Camps:
Note: Midweek Momentum athletes are strongly encouraged to attend camps. Participating in these camps will familiarize them with the environment and provide valuable extra training from a young age, which will be beneficial when they graduate into competitive programs.
Pre-Season Tremblant Camp:December 19th to 22nd
Members: $300
Non-Members: $400
End of Season Slush Camp:
Location and Dates TBD - 3-day camp
Members: $225
Non-Members: $300
Extra Training:
Note: Midweek Momentum athletes are encouraged to attend extra training whenever possible. Extra training sessions provide valuable additional practice, helping athletes refine their skills, gain more experience, and better prepare for the demands of competitive racing.
Sunday Training:
Members: $76.50
Non-Members: $90
Friday Night Training:
Members: $85
Non-Members: $100
*Lift tickets are not included in any program, camp, or extra training options. They must be purchased through Ottawa Sports at a discounted rate. Do not buy a season pass, as we rotate between different hills.