Race Season 2025!

Panorama

  • January 17 - 19
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Sunshine Village

  • March 1 - 2
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Kimberley

  • March 8 - 9
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Lake Louise

  • April 5 - 6
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At the Black Dogs Ski Club, we aim to create a constructive atmosphere that allows kids to have the most fun possible while truly enjoying every day skiing on the slopes of Lake Louise.

Our mission is to provide a fun skiing environment that allows each and every child to excel in a variety of ways, fostering connections throughout their ski journey and learning life skills, all the while improving their overall skiing ability.

Our club’s ultimate environment of fun and enjoyment involves a variety of training methods and warm ups, as well as club events throughout the season that include race course experience. Kids will have the opportunity to meet new ski buddies and potentially develop lifelong friendships while progressing their skills on the hill.

With programs that are designed to meet the needs of all age groups and further each child’s athletic progression, we also strive to have the kids develop a new maximum rating on their ‘Fun Meter’.



About




PHILOSOPHY


As a group of passionate individuals wanting to provide the best ski programs possible for young athletes, we had to ask ourselves, “What makes a ski club?”.

For us, the answer to that question was a simple observation: What makes a ski club is the people in it.

At the Black Dogs, we believe in athlete centred programs that are both driven and directed by our coaches rather than a parent-run Board of Directors. This sets us apart from most clubs in the sense that our coaches are able to coordinate training programs that are best for the development of all athletes within the program based off of coaching experience and observation on the hill. Each athlete’s needs can be tended to while still benefitting the group as a whole.

Ski racing establishes skills and lessons that transfer to many different aspects in life; our programs are formed around cultivating these skills and experiences in a way that will set athletes up for future success, even outside of ski racing, and share our passion for this amazing sport in our beautiful home of Lake Louise.





HISTORY


The Black Dogs started off as a vision between an assorted group of parents and individuals who were brought together by their shared passion for skiing at Lake Louise along with the desire to create a unique yet effective ski racing experience for young athletes. Since then, our club has established its exceptional atmosphere and—with our athlete’s achievements—is starting to grow a name for itself within the the ski racing community of Western Canada.

With our unparalleled athlete to coach ratio, we ensure that every child in our programming is well looked after and provided the necessary attention each day to excel in numerous ways.

We have a core group of individuals, both on the coaching side and on our Board of Directors who have been with the club since it began and whose hard work, values, and continued involvement is not only greatly appreciated and respected, but also the main reason the Black Dogs has become what it is today.

Having completed our tenth year of operation, we are very proud to have provided effective ski racing programs for children from around the Bow Valley Corridor and Calgary Area. We look forward to continuing to be a part of the communities we serve, providing a wonderful and enjoyable environment within the ski club for all participants.

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Coach




Board Members


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Rick Bowie

President
Starting as a founding member, and now current President of the Black Dogs Ski Club, Rick Bowie was born in Calgary and grew up skiing at Lake Louise. Hailing from a family of notable skiers, he began his ski journey on the alpine side before finding his calling in Freestyle Skiing. Rick competed on the World Cup Freestyle Tour for
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Tony Seligman

Board Director
Tony has coached with the Black Dogs since the very start of the club, earning the title of Head Coach back in 2013. Not only does he have 15 years of ski coaching experience in the Bow Valley, but also a well-documented background in working with youth in a variety of capacities over the last 35 years. Born in Ontario,
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Paul Coatsworth

Board Director, Coach
Paul is a Mechanical Engineer with a passion for understanding how things work. His attention to detail is represented in the care he gives towards the equipment set up of his athletes as well as his integrated approach to coaching and skill progression. He greatly enjoys helping athletes learn from all the amazing life lessons that result from ski racing.


Coaches


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Bayne

Coach
I’m Bayne, I’m currently attending Mount Royal University and I live in Calgary. My goal this year is to help athletes improve their technique, build confidence, and reach their goals, all while making the process fun. My focus is on inspiring growth and a love for the sport. Good coaching allowed me to love the sport when competing for over

Ellie

Coach
I live in Calgary and go to St Mary’s high school, and I’ve skied my whole life. First started at COP and then skied at Nakiska (NASA base mountain) for five years. I started skiing at Louise when I was 8 years old, did BVK and for 3 years, then BVK free riders for four years and joined Black Dogs
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Kazue

Coach
Hello my name is Kazue! I’m originally from Japan but moved to Canada to ski after I graduated university. I have almost 15 years of coaching experience and excited to continue my career with Blackdogs!
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Olivia

Coach
Hey my name’s Olivia and I’m super excited for my first season coaching in Canada! I am from Queenstown, New Zealand and have been racing my entire life. I was fortunate enough to travel the world representing Team New Zealand in racing throughout my teens, but now excited to pass on my knowledge to the next generation coming up!
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Braedon

Head Coach
Braedon has a lifetime of experience in the ski racing scene. Starting racing at a young age of 5 in Blue Mountain, Ontario he has taken his talent representing his country across the globe. When Brae reached FIS, he skied for the National Ski Academy of Canada receiving world renowned coaching from some of the best coaches around the globe.

Lucy

Coach
Hi I’m Lucy, from New Zealand. I have been skiing since I was 5 and have have recently just come to Lake Louise after finishing a ski season in Japan. I do a mix of skiing from touring, back country, and on-piste. I’m extremely excited to start my coaching career with Black Dogs and can’t be more excited for the
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Liam

Coach
I’ve been skiing since I was two, starting at Nakiska with N.A.S.A (Nakiska Alpine Ski Association). That early experience sparked a lifelong passion for the sport. Now, as a student at Mount Royal University, I’m balancing my studies with my love for skiing. I’m especially passionate about helping kids develop into great skiers. Watching them grow in confidence and skill
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Paul Coatsworth

Board Director, Coach
Paul is a Mechanical Engineer with a passion for understanding how things work. His attention to detail is represented in the care he gives towards the equipment set up of his athletes as well as his integrated approach to coaching and skill progression. He greatly enjoys helping athletes learn from all the amazing life lessons that result from ski racing.
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Mike Koper

Tech Advisor
Mike has coached with our club since the very beginning, although his teaching and ski coaching experience span well beyond that. His coaching career began as an instructor for the Lake Louise Ski Resort back in 1976, where he was thrown into the world of race coaching after the Ski School was contracted by the Lake Louise Ski Club to
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Ms. Kazue Isoyama

U8 Coach


Code of Conduct


A code of conduct has been developed and a coordinated team effort is required for the best possible operation of our programs.

A Code of Ethics Committee is established in order to supervise the Lake Louise Black Dogs Ski Club member’s behavior.

ATHLETE RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. Obey the Skiers Responsibility Code at all times. When free skiing, the athlete will always be under control and at a safe speed so as to not scare or endanger other skiers. Athletes must obey all posted mountain signs and all verbal or written instructions received from the ski patrol, coaches and/or ski area employees.

  2. Participate and commit fully to the training and racing plan as designed by the coaching staff (dry land, on-snow, equipment, diet, rest, etc.) giving 100% to the achievement of their personal advancement plan.

  3. Communicate with the coaches on all aspects of the program and plan and respect the decisions of the coaching staff.

  4. Respect, properly use and refrain from abuse of ski area and other venue equipment and facilities. Become the proud of Lake Louise Ski Area.

  5. Show courteous and cooperative behavior to all coaches, gatekeepers, parents, officials, employees, and customers of all ski areas and other venues during the training and competition.

  6. Refrain from the use of profane language or directing profane language toward anyone at anytime. Behave in the manner that brings credit to yourself, the team and program. Athletes shall be known as the best on and off the hill.

  7. Endeavor to maintain a clean and neat appearance at all times so as to promote yourself, the team, and the community. Wear team uniforms and insignia with pride whenever directed by the coaching staff. 

  8. Show respect for others by always storing skis and other gear in appropriate place.

  9. Understand and accept that any damage caused, directly or indirectly, is the athlete’s responsibility as is reimbursement of property owners, hotel or motel operators, ski areas, or ski clubs for any loss(es) incurred.

PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. Respect all the decisions made by the Lake Louise Black Dogs Ski Club’ staff relevant to your child’s ski development program.

  2. Respect and honor any and all other policies which may be developed and communicated by the Bod or coaching staff.

  3. Communicate in a respectful manner with the program director and coaches as needed on all aspects of the program(s).

  4. In the case of a program or coaching concerns, communicate first to the program director(s) who will guide the resolution process. Parents will refrain from taking program/coaching concerns directly to the coach or interrupting the training plan.

  5. Commit to the specified fundraising activities that form the part of the overall program. Handle any and all financial obligations to the club, association and the ski community in timely and complete matter.

  6. Communicate to coaches or program directors on any personal needs or changes happening in the athlete’s personal life that may affect the performance and behavior.

COACH RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. Set the example and behave in accordance with the athlete’s code of conduct (above) as well as the Canadian Ski Coaches Federation and Canadian Ski Instructors’ Alliance code of ethics and principles.

  2. Represent the best interest of all athletes.

  3. Coach the athletes in a logical sequence and use all development tools available, respecting the Club program.

  4. Commit 100% to the program and personal achievement of all athletes.

  5. Communicate with athletes on any and all aspects of their personal goals.

  6. Communicate with parents on appropriate aspects of the team and individual athlete programs.

SKI CLUB ADMINISTRATION RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. Employ a capable and respected team of professional coaches to direct all programs.

  2. Conduct the affairs of the club(s) in an ethical and financially responsible manner.

  3. Promote and develop the program philosophy for the benefit of all athletes.

  4. Ensure that the program(s) is/are well defined and understood by all parties and is available in a written outline form.

Athletes, parents, coaches and the ski club administration must all agree to the above responsibilities and understand that the Lake Louise Black Dogs Ski Club and member clubs Board of Directors have developed this code of conduct to promote and protect the teams, ski areas, and the community.

All parties agree that any infringement of the above Code of Conduct responsibilities is the grounds for disciplinary action in the form of a punishment period or dismissal for the remainder of the season.



COLD WEATHER TIPS


by Peter Lepinski

Do not get fully dressed in your ski suit prior to coming to the hill. You may end up sweating and once outside you will chill off quickly. Be prepared to get fully dressed just prior to going on the hill. Your coaches will provide you with ample time.

Bring extra clean dry socks and change into a pair just as you are ready to put your boots on. That way you do not have a moist pair on your feet. Use the socks you are removing or have a small towel to dry your feet before putting the new socks on.

Each night ensure you remove your boot liners and dry them out thoroughly over a heat register.

Each night ensure you dry out your gloves thoroughly over a heat register. Mittens are much warmer than gloves and are recommended on the colder days.

Pack an extra sweat shirt or sweater in the event you may need to add on a layer.

Make sure you have a good helmet to keep your head warm, as you lose heat quickly through your head.

Ensure you have a good pair of goggles to protect your eyes if snow is falling.

Make sure you hydrate at each break. Dehydrating will cause you to loose body heat more rapidly than normal, causing discomfort faster.

Bring snacks to have during breaks so your body has a source of fuel and energy. Cold weather taps energy more rapidly than in warm weather.

Lastly, do not hesitate to approach your coach and advise them of your situation if you are feeling cold or need a break. If you are focusing on how cold or hurt you are, you are not able to effectively learn and participate.

The coaches are here to help you achieve and succeed.

With temperature at -25C and below the training will be cancelled.



Ski Selection Tips


Ski selection, both model and length, will always be a very personal and, to a large extent, very subjective decision. We will soon post a chart that shows some of the common trends we noticed as a result of our ongoing testing, which should be taken into consideration when making model and length decisions. Optimal ski length is determined by the following order: ability, weight and strength. We hope you will find this information useful and we wish you an excellent winter. Good luck racing!

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Programs




Puppies Program


An introductory program designed for children 3 and 4 years old


First time
on the snow!

Course Details

Start Date
November 2025

Finish Date

April 2026

Days

Saturday OR Sunday

Time

9:30 AM - 11:30 AM OR 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Location

Lake Louise Ski Resort

FAQS

How many days of instruction

20 days
How often do we race
It depends on their ski level
Recommended passes
Lake Louise ski pass or ski card
Minimum Ski Level
None Required
Athlete to Coach Ration
2:1

Program Fee

Course
$615.00

Registration Fee

$150.00

ACA Insurance

Jacket Purchase

$120.00

$165.00



Basic Program


Nancy GREENE PROGRAM


AGES 5-13

Course Details

Start Date
November 2025

Finish Date

April 2026

Days

Saturday OR Sunday

Time

9:30AM start, 3:30PM finish with 1 hour lunch break from 12:00PM-1:00PM
Duration

5 hours on snow

Location

Lake Louise Ski Resort

FAQS

How many days of instruction

20 days
How often do we race

2-5 races

Recommended passes
LLSA
Athlete to Coach Ration
5:1

Program Fee

Basic Program
$1600.00

Registration Fee

$150.00

ACA Insurance

Jacket Purchase

$120.00

$165.00



Advanced Program



AGES 8-12

Course Details

Start Date
November 2025

Finish Date

April 2026

Time

9:30AM - 3:30PM with 1 hour lunch from 12:00PM - 1:00PM
Duration

5 hours on snow

Location

Lake Louise Ski Resort and COP (week night training 4:30-6:30 pm)

FAQS

How many days of instruction

  • Advanced U10: 52 Days at Lake Louise
  • Advanced U12: 70 Days at Lake Louise
How often do we race
4 races (U12 Provincials)
Recommended passes
Lake Louise Ski Pass and COP Mid Week Pass
Minimum Ski Level

3+

Athlete to Coach Ration

4:1


Note that alpine skiing is known as a “late specialization sport”. Therefore, ALL programs will enjoy a balanced mix of skill development, supervised technical free skiing and an introduction to self-esteem and confidence building through friendly competitions, drill courses and professional coaching.

Athletes will be placed by ability first. Pre puberty, growth and maturation differences recognize that size and birthdate are often considered before grouping by age only.

    Program Fee

    Advanced U10

    $3,000.00

    Advanced U12
    $3,300.00

    Registration Fee

    Jacket Purchase

    $150.00

    $165.00

    Canada Alpine Insurance
    TBA


    U14 Program



    AGES 12-13


    A 70 days advanced program designed for 12-13 years old athletes

    Course Details

    Start Date
    November 2025

    Finish Date

    April 2026

    Time

    9:00 am start, 3:45pm finish, 45 minutes Un-supervised lunch break
    Duration
    6 hours on snow

    Location

    Lake Louise Ski Resort

    FAQS

    How many days of instruction

    Around 70 days (include Christamas and New Year Camp)
    How often do we race
    4 Week Ends races
    Recommended passes
    LLSA and COP.
    Minimum Ski Level

    3+

    Athlete to Coach Ration

    6:1

    Add On

    • COP Training (second mid week training day) 13 week day. Cost $900.00

    • November camp. Cost $TBA

    • December camp. Cost $TBA

    • Whistler Cup race (cost TBA)

    Program Fee

    70 Days Program

    $5600.00

    Registration Fee

    Jacket Purchase

    $150.00

    $165.00

    Canada Alpine Insurance
    TBA


    U16 Program



    AGES 14-15


    A around 90 days advanced program designed for 14-15 years old athletes

    Course Details

    Start Date
    November 2025

    Finish Date

    April 2026

    Time

    9:00 am start, 3:45pm finish, 45 minutes lunch
    Duration
    6 hours on snow

    Location

    Lake Louise Ski Resort

    FAQS

    How many days of instruction

    Around 90 days
    How often do we race
    4 Long Week End races (U16 Provincials and Western) for a total of 20 days Racing. an extra week end of race is possible.
    Recommended passes: LLSA and COP.
    Minimum Ski Level
    4+
    Athlete to Coach Ration
    4:1

    Add On

    • November camp. Cost TBA
    • Nakiska camp. Cost TBA

    Program Fee

    90 Days Program
    $8,720.00

    Registration Fee

    Jacket Purchase

    $150.00

    $165.00

    Canada Alpine Insurance
    TBA


    FIS Program


    Snow Stars Level 3+


    AGES 16+


    This program is designed for athletes aged 16 and above who are looking to continue ski racing into U19 or beyond. Each athlete’s commitment to the program will be dependant on personal schedule (balancing education, social life, sport, etc.) and aspirations, but our goal as a club is to provide each individual with high quality coaching as well as training and race opportunities to achieve whatever goals they are striving towards. At the Black Dogs, we want to develop skiers for life. Whether your athlete wants to continue on to the Provincial and National teams, pursue NCAA, or even continue the sport until going to other paths in life, we work to develop strong skiers who are determined to build and improve their skills as confident skiers anywhere on the mountain.

    Course Details

    Start Date
    November 2025

    Finish Date

    April 2026

    Time

    9:00 am start, 3:45pm finish, 45 minutes lunch
    Duration
    6 hours on snow

    Location

    Lake Louise Ski Resort

    FAQS

    How many days of instruction

    Around 90 days
    How often do we race

    4 to 6 race week ends

    Recommended passes

    LLSA and COP

    Minimum Ski Level

    4+

    Athlete to Coach Ration

    4:1

    Program Fee

    *This is the base cost of our FIS program. Additional camps and races can be discussed with parents and athletes depending on each’s individual budget.

    All FIS athletes must purchase a FIS Card to compete as well as a Canada West All Area pass for training and races outside of Lake Louise. We strongly recommend the VIP extension to the Lake Louise Season Pass as well, as athletes can get a greater amount of runs in each training day—especially on busy days at the hill. The club will guide you in acquiring these when you register for our FIS program.


    Advanced (FIS)

    $9740.00

    Registration Fee

    Jacket Purchase

    $150.00

    $165.00

    Add On

    • November camp. Cost TBA
    • December camp. Cost TBA

    Canada Alpine Insurance + FIS Card

    TBA


    All Mountain Program



    AGES 10+


    This is a 18 day program for skiers aged 10 years and older. Our program is designed for athletes that are already at an advanced level and are looking to improve their skills in a variety of ways skiing on off-piste terrain.


    The goal of the program is to connect local athletes with other athletes in their peer group to allow them to learn how to navigate the mountains in a safe and fun environment. The coaching ratio will be only 7 athletes per coach!  Our primary goals are to instill good decision making when skiing off-piste, including terrain selection, and the ability to adapt to an ever changing mountain environment.

    Course Details

    Start Date
    November 2025

    Finish Date

    April 2026

    Days

    Saturday OR Sunday

    Time

    9:30AM start, 3:30PM finish with 1 hour lunch break from 12:00PM-1:00PM
    Duration

    +5 hours on snow

    Location

    Lake Louise Ski Resort

    FAQS

    How many days of instruction

    18 days

    Recommended passes

    LLSA 

    Athlete to Coach Ration

    8:1

    Program Fee

    All-Mountain Program
    $1,250.00

    Registration Fee

    Jacket Fee

    $150.00

    $165.00



    Masters Program


    Masters Program has been introduced 3 years ago to help the Adult Skiers to fill the excitement of a race environment and improve their all mountain skills.

    Please contact us for more details and program cost.

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