U18-21​

Eligible birth years:

• U18: athletes born in 2009–2010

• U21: athletes born in 2006–200

​U.S. Ski & Snowboard age classifications are based on the athlete’s age as of 12/31/26.

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​The Alpine U18/U21 program is designed for experienced athletes competing at an advanced level of alpine racing and pursuing high-level performance goals within a competitive team environment.

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Program Expectations:

• Athletes at the U18/U21 level are expected to demonstrate a high degree of commitment, accountability, and professionalism in both training and competition.

• To maintain appropriate coach-to-athlete ratios and provide a high-performance training environment, continued participation is contingent upon meeting program expectations and competitive benchmarks.

• Athletes are expected to demonstrate advanced technical skills, tactical understanding, physical preparation, race readiness, and strong independent training habits.

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Training Focus:

• Advanced refinement of technical skiing skills across all disciplines

• Continued development of tactical racing skills and course management

• Improvement of race strategy, inspection, and competitive decision-making

• Increased emphasis on physical conditioning, mental preparation, and performance consistency

• Development of athlete independence, accountability, and self-management on and off the hill

• Preparation for higher-level competition, including regional, national, collegiate, and post-secondary racing opportunities

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Competition Opportunities​:

• Participation in PA Cup Series 

• Qualify for Eastern High School Championships and Eastern Regionals

•  Select FIS racing opportunities

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Primary Disciplines

• Slalom

• Giant Slalom

• Super G

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Athlete Requirements​:

• New athletes are subject to a tryout evaluation before acceptance and have a US Ski & Snowboard race profile.

• Maintain an active U.S. Ski & Snowboard membership and Pennsylvania Alpine Racing Association (PARA) memberships. 

• Membership fees and race entry fees (race fees, lift tickets, travel, lodging) are separate from Blue Mountain program tuition.

• Athletes are required to hold a valid Blue Mountain season pass​​

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​​​ Additional Compliance Requirements (US Ski & Snowboard)

• Athletes age 17 turning 18 during the season must complete a background screening at the time of U.S. Ski & Snowboard registration

• Athletes age 18 and older must complete background screening within 10 days of registration

• Athletes turning 18 must complete SafeSport Training before their 18th birthday​