To accomplish this, the program is designed to help children develop excellent ski technique through a vertically integrated continuum of skier development opportunities, beginning with Bunnyrabbits, followed by Jackrabbits and concluding with Track Attack. This reflects the emphasis on achieving program goals in an atmosphere that is fun and exciting for children.
This exciting program is held at Bull Mountain Ski Area operated by the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club. The sessions take place on Sundays from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm (January/February).
Bunnyrabbit Program (up to 5 years)
The first level of the SDP is the Bunnyrabbit program, which is directed at children in the ‘Active Start’ stage of athlete development (children five years of age and younger). The objective is to introduce cross-country skiing and the healthy lifestyle associated with it through organized activity and active play. In addition, it is designed to:
- Help children develop a positive self-image
- Be fun
- Provide children an opportunity to make ski friends
- Develop fundamental movement skills
- Help children develop an awareness and appreciation of the natural environment
Jackrabbit Program (6 to 9 years)
The Jackrabbit Program, which is directed at skiers in the ‘FUNdamentals’ stage of athlete development (children six to nine years of age) is the second level of the SDP. The objective is for children to learn basic cross-country ski skills (both classic and skating) and to instill a lifelong interest in the sport, thereby enhancing their quality of life and health. In addition, it is designed to:
- Help children develop confidence
- Be fun
- Provide children an opportunity to ski and socialize with their ski friends
- Build overall motor skills
- Help children develop outdoor winter safety skills
Track Attack Program (10 to 12 years)
The Track Attack Program, which is directed at children in the ‘Learning to Train’ stage of athlete development (children 10 to 12 years of age), is the third level of the SDP. The objective is for the participants to become technically competent cross-country skiers and to utilize their skills to explore a wide range of cross-country ski activities, from backcountry excursions to Ski Tournaments. In addition, it is designed to:
- Develop fitness through active play, games and other activities
- Be fun
- Provide children an opportunity to be part of a sport ‘team’
- Develop overall sport skills
- Expose to children to a variety of ‘adventure-based’ cross-country ski activities

SESSION DATES
Sundays 1 – 3 pm. starting December 16, 2012, including Dec. 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27 and Feb. 3, 10, 17, and 24.
Wednesday evenings from 5:30 – 7 (optional, but recommended for Jackrabbit and Track Attack levels) on Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30 and Feb. 6, 13 and 20.
SKI GROUPS:
We will place your child into a group at the appropriate skill level and age. Please provide as much detail as possible about your child’s ability, experience, fitness level and any medical concerns on the back of the registration form.
PARENT VOLUNTEERS:
Parent involvement is the key for success of the Skill Development Program and can only continue to grow with the participation of parents. This year we may be short on coaches so we would like to have parent volunteers ski with the Bunnyrabbit and Level 1 & 2 Jackrabbits. Each parent should be prepared to ski with their child’s group for at least one session. This will help to ensure that there are at least 2 adults with each group.
How to register
Youth Program Registration Form and Consent Document (including description of development levels and their goals): [PDF]
Also available at:
Registration can be mailed to the club or brought with payment to the first session.
Payment must accompany registration.
We will place your child into a group at the appropriate skill level and age. Please provide as much detail as possible on the back of the registration form about your child’s ability, experience, fitness level, and any medical concerns.
Adult Programs
Adult cross-country skiing lessons are frequently offered through Williams Lake Leisure Services (250-398-7665).
Williams Lake Cross-country Ski Club also occasionally offers lessons for adults, depending on demand and availability of instructors.
Contact an executive member of the WLCCSC for further information.