WELCOME TO OUR TRACK ATTACK PROGRAM
* If you have any questions regarding which program to register your child in, then please contact the Programs Administrator <[email protected]> for guidance and coach consultation.
All of our youth programs are designed around Sport Canada’s Long Term Athlete Development principles and Nordiq Canada’s program guidelines. Our Track Attack [“TA”] program is designed for skiers in the “Learning to Train” stage of athlete development and is the third level of the Skill Development Program. A high coach:athlete ratio and wide variety of activities creates a fun, dynamic, team environment and instills a lifelong love of skiing.
We offer two Track Attack options. Both develop FUNdamental movement, sports skills and refine basic cross-country techniques appropriate for this stage. Athletes will be grouped based on a combination of age, skill level, interests and goals to ensure everyone’s abilities are aligned while being challenged. Lead coaches may shift group compositions throughout the season based on individual progression, session content, coach assessment and coach availability.
- 2-Days per week option is for skiers who:
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- Want to develop skills and fitness while having fun with their like-minded ski buddies
- Are at the earlier end of the Learning to Train stage or just getting their “TA” feet wet
- Can only attend 2 sessions per week – IF choosing Thursday as one of your 2 days, then be prepared for it being a more intense training and race focussed session
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- 3-Days per week option adds Thursday evenings to the 2-Day option for skiers who:
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- Want a greater focus on training and racing and are prepared for a bit more effort
- Athletes that are at the mid to later stage of Learning to Train
Our objective is for all of our athletes to become technically competent cross-country skiers and to utilize their skills to explore a range of cross-country ski activities. Regardless of which option is chosen, every athlete will be well supported and have the same opportunities to participate in any events, camps or races that are part of our “Track Attack” program.
Track Attack Program Goals:
- Fitness! Fun! Teamwork!
- An opportunity to be part of a sports “team” and social atmosphere
- Ski technique improvement through drills and feedback from qualified coaches
- Games, relays, and terrain parks to develop technique, speed, and fitness
- The opportunity to explore and enjoy off-trail ski activities
- Introducing skills on how to wax and care for your skis
- Introduction to competition in a team-focused environment
- Building blocks to ski and race with confidence
All participants will have the opportunity to try Biathlon during one Track Attack session. A Biathlon Day membership is included in the program cost.
All participants will be registered in an OK Cup (local or neighboring) and Club Championships as part of the program registration cost. At this stage of development, the LTAD recommends 6-8 competitions in a season. Many athletes are keen to race and are often even more excited about the fun and adventure of just attending an event and other ski trails with their teammates plus friends they make at other clubs. Athletes and parents alike are well supported and invited to join the fun
Alternate practice locations of 2025-26 camps and races for Track Attackers:
* Costs for below events are NOT included in Track Attack Program registration fees.
These events are not mandatory – but LOTS OF FUN and highly recommended !
More info will be shared as it becomes available from CCBC and event organizers.
Please contact the Programs Admin <[email protected]> with questions.
- Sept 12-14, 2025 Teck Okanagan Region Fall Camp Revelstoke
- Nov 21-23, 2025 Teck Okanagan Region Snow Camp Sovereign / Silver Star or ski with your family
- Jan 3, 2026 Teck OK Cup #1 Revelstoke
- Jan 17or18, 2026 Teck OK Cup #2 TBD
- Jan 24-25, 2026 Teck BC Track Attack Championships Whistler
* Parents are required to help over the course of the season in at least 4-6 regular program sessions as parent sweepers. The sweeper’s role is to stay right behind the last skier of the group, making sure no one gets left behind. A sign-up sheet will be sent out closer to the program’s start date.
* An SLNC season pass is required for participants in this program.
* Inclusiveness is an SLNC value and priority. Instruction for children with special needs is part of all Track Attack programs. Please contact the Programs Admin <[email protected]> to discuss any needs that your child has so that we can set them up for success.
Program Details
Please note: Practice schedules and session technique details will be communicated throughout the season by your Lead Coach via the “TeamSnap” App. A link with an invite to join your Program’s TeamSnap will be sent out closer to program start .The dates and times in the table below provide a general outline only. If you are registered for this program and not receiving TeamSnap notifications email the SLNC Programs Administrator <[email protected]>
| Track Attack 2 Day
Ages 9-12 yrs old |
Track Attack 3 Day Ages 10-12 yrs old
|
Notes | |
| Dates | Starting: September 6th, 2025
Ending: March 7th, 2026 [minus some sessions for holidays & events] |
Starting: September 6th, 2025
Ending: March 7th, 2026 [minus some sessions for holidays & events] |
The cold weather cut-off for “Learn to Train″ is -15*C. |
| Total # of sessions | 37 | 52 | |
| Sessions/wk. | 2
Fall & Winter |
2 Fall (Tues & Sat only)
3 Winter |
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| Days | Tuesday 18:00-19:30
Saturday 10:00-12:00
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Tuesday 18:00-19:30
Thursday 18:00-19:30 (race-focused night) Saturday 10:00-12:00 |
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| Cost | $399 | $599 | |
| Registration Deadline | September 2nd 2025 | September 2nd 2025 | |
No Formal Lesson programming:
- Nov 29-30, 2025 [Nordiq Cup races hosted by SLNC]
- Dec 20, 2025 – Jan 2, 2026 [Christmas break for coaches and families]
- Jan 17 or 18, 2026 TBD [Teck OK Cup #1]
- Feb. 14, 2026 [Teck OK Cup #2 *Full Race Support, entry fee not included]
Coaching Course Opportunities:
Intro to Community Coaching (ICC)
Acting SDP Coach: Deirdra grew up in Vernon, skiing with her parents, and has been an active member of the Sovereign Lake Nordic Club (SLNC) community for many years. She began as an athlete, competing in cross-country and biathlon events with the SLNC Ski Team. After her competitive years, Deirdra transitioned into coaching and support roles at Sovereign, working as an instructor in the S’Cool Ski Program and at the lodge front counter.
She has since taken on leadership roles, including leading the Skills Development Program and serving as Programs Administrator—now in her third year in that position. Her passion for skiing has only grown over the years, and she is excited to blend her love for the sport with her background in business management.
“Sovereign Lake is like a home away from home for me.”
Coaching Experience: I’ve coached since I graduated from UBC Vancouver and stopped racing for the varsity team. So 20 years this year: four years at Hollyburn Ski Club and then 16 at Sovereign! I just love how technical the sport is, and how it’s a lifelong pursuit!
Favorite Trail: Silver Queen! I always look forward to that trail opening!
Fun Fact: We have four egg-laying hens in our backyard: Lilli, Lucy, Penny, and Rosie: yay free eggs!
Kevin O’Connor
Frank Descouens
Gregory Baxter
Ski equipment and ski preparation tips for Track Attack – click here.
Winter Safety for Track Attack – click here.
My Trail Etiquette Promise – click here.
Equipment needs: Classic and skate equipment are needed for Track Attack
Equipment Sources:
Rentals –Program participants can utilize our season rental program. A full selection of quality, affordable, classic and skate gear for all ages is available at SLNC. Please email [email protected] to secure skis.
Retail – Stussi Sports in Vernon provides an excellent selection of gear with advice to match. They also have a rotating “kids gear exchange” program and info on ski swaps. They are a huge supporter of our club, programs and events.
Facebook: Sovereign Lake Programs Gear Swap
Q. Where do Track Attack sessions take place?
Track Attack meets in the stadium. Skiers typically warm up on the Saddle loop before reviewing skills in the stadium or heading out onto the trails.
Q. How long are Track Attack sessions?
Track Attack sessions are an hour and a half to two hours long.
Q. What does a typical Track Attack session consist of?
Coaches use large and small groups, games, drills, and longer continuous skiing on all types of terrain to reinforce skills and encourage natural learning. Group sessions generally include warm-up, review and instruction of key skills, a continuous ski, and relays to improve fitness, with ski play/games to wrap up.
Q. What is the split between classic and skating sessions?
50/50. There is roughly the same number of classic and skating sessions. A full schedule for the winter is posted well in advance so that you know which technique occurs on which day.
Q. How do I learn more about waxing & what waxes I should have for my Track Attacker?
A list of recommended waxes will be provided at the beginning of the season. Advice and basic wax instruction are delivered to Track Attack skiers as part of their programs. Introductory through advanced wax clinics are also available to the public through Stussi Sports in Vernon. Contact your coach or Stussi Sports for details.
Q. Do children race at this stage?
Yes, opportunities to race are offered and encouraged. Appropriate competition formats (relays, obstacle courses, sprints, individual challenges) are an integral part of the program as they play an important part in athletic development. Coach support at races is included in the program through participation in:
- Local, Regional, and Provincial races (Okanagan Cup, BC Cup, and BC Championship races).
Q. What is the cold weather cancellation policy?
The cold weather cut-off for “Track Attack″ is -15*C.
Q. Is there a wrap-up event at the end of the program?
The formal season ends with participation in the Best in Snow in early March.
Q. Will my Track Attack skier make good progress by skiing just 2-3x/wk in formal sessions?
Every athlete (and parent) progresses at their own rate. While Track Attack sessions provide great coaching and opportunities to learn, your child will improve quicker the more you get out! We strongly encourage parents to take full advantage of our fantastic snow and trail system by getting out at least one other time during the week with their kids. A family ski on Sunday works well for many families. Many families share driving responsibilities mid-week as well.
Q. What opportunities are there for my child to “move up” to the next level(s)?
We do our best to place every child at a level that serves their current abilities and challenges them sufficiently to improve. Coaches strive to communicate with each other regularly and make adjustments when appropriate and practical. Some Track Attack skiers may be getting ready to move up to Junior Development and will be offered opportunities to join in.
Q. As a parent learning to ski…how can I help/keep up with my own Track Attacker?
Ultimately, parents/guardians will often be the ones taking their own youngsters skiing outside of session times. We can assist parents in understanding the technical skills and share ideas on how to facilitate their child’s learning. If you need help improving your own skiing, then consider talking with our staff to arrange a group or private lesson(s) with our well-qualified instructors!
Q. Do parents/guardians accompany their children during Track Attack?
No. By this stage children are skiing independently during sessions, in small groups led by certified coaches. BUT, we do need and want your help as all youth programs run on parent volunteers! Read on…
Q. What kind of help does the club need and how can I pitch in?
It takes many volunteers to run club programs and activities. We need your help with:
- Coaching – introductory and community coach workshops are provided and paid for with support and mentoring along the way for all coaches in our programs.
- Coordinating programs – registration, refreshments, hot chocolate table, pizza night…
- Equipment set-up – hoops/balls/props, playground maintenance, special events…
- Races – timing, stadium & course set-up, marshaling, traffic control, bib gathering…
- Other – everything big & small happens because people pitch in – please just offer or ask us!
Q. Are coaches certified?
Yes. All our volunteer coaches are certified with NCCP standards.
