Coach
Marks Blog
Swiss Valley’s JDT -
Junior Development (Race) Team
is a ski racing team composed of kids, ages 5-14,
of all skiing ability levels. The JDT program’s
primary goal is to give these kids a chance to learn
the art of ski racing and improve their overall skiing
skills. Any child who is interested is welcome and
encouraged to join the team.

Team Participation includes a 4 day Winter Race Camp
during the holiday break along with weekly practices.
Also available and encouraged are races and scheduled
events which include races held at Swiss Valley and
other local ski areas. Our coaches, who lead the team
during practices & events, are former racers,
professional ski instructors, and now USSA Ski Coaches.
This program is extremely affordable with each team
member enjoying up to 45 hours of instruction and
coaching for only $85. Discounted rates apply for
additional family members. (Lift tickets & additional
event fees not included. Purchasing a Season
Pass at Swiss Valley is the most affordable
option.) Helmets are mandatory for this program and
can be purchased at the Swiss
Valley Pro Shop.
Top
10 Reasons to Join the JDT:
1. 45 hours of coaching and personal attention for
JDT Members all season long.
2. A fun source of wintertime activity for parents
and kids alike.
3. Everyone participates, no one sits on the bench.
4. 4 days of Winter Race Camp included in registration
fee.
5. Four great coaches, and we mean GREAT!
6. Parents can be actively involved and not be just
a “taxi” with free parent clinics offered
during weekly practices.
7. Kids can start skiing at a very early age &
learn a skill they will enjoy throughout their entire
lifetime.
8. Ski Care Clinics - We teach you how to treat your
equipment with the care & respect your investment
deserves.
9. Each individual has the opportunity for skill advancement
with the benefits of team membership.
10. Enjoy a fun finale to the season with the Parents
vs. JDT Kids Challenge and Team Party.
Open to all children ages 5 to 14, from beginner
to more advanced! Staffed by a team of “Professional
Ski Instructors,” under the direction of Mark
Wright, the coaching team is focused on developing
and sharpening ski and race skills through a series
of fun activities and events.
Parents are encouraged to participate and attend parent
oriented race clinics which will focus on race basics
and how to help your child compete. Parents will be
asked to volunteer throughout the season and during
the Swiss Valley Invitational.
A great program for children ages 5 to 14. Racing
helps improve regular skiing skills along with building
confidence, self-esteem, and strength in a fun, comfortable
way. A wonderful program to help keep your child active
during the winter season. We have sent 4 of our own
junior racers to the Junior Olympics since starting
this program.
Due
to race course restrictions, JDT is not currently
available for snowboarders, however, several options
for freestyle training are available through the SnowSports
Learning Center. For more information please
call Swiss Valley at 269-244-5635

Coach
Marks Blog