by Nick McDonald
The PSIA-NW Technical Team tryout was held in late April of 2010 at Mt. Bachelor, Oregon. I would like to introduce you to your team, but before I do let me describe a little bit about how they got here.
The tryout is like, and unlike, an exam; like an exam where participants are evaluated by a group of selectors (examiners), in regards to teaching skills, skiing skills and technical knowledge. Unlike an exam where it is a competitive situation for a limited number of positions verses a level of proficiency such as a certification. Not to mention that a successful tryout has a shelf life meaning being on the team is only good for 4 years, so if you want to continue to be on the team, there’s going to be another tryout.
At the tryout event a group of some of the best clinicians in our division gathered for what some outsiders would call nothing less than a torture test of resolve and endurance. But they come willingly because they each have a common goal in mind which is to help the future development of our division.
The first two days all participants go through a number of skiing tasks, teaching situations and indoor presentations. It was very inspiring watching all of them rise to the occasion. Each individual was interviewed on their motives for wanting to be on the team. The candidates were on the go from 8am to 7pm with very short breaks. On the morning of the third day a cut took place with an announcement of who will continue on to the final selection; not all names are called.
Further skiing tasks are required and more delving into the participants knowledge and abilities takes place. At the end of the final day an announcement is made of the selection of the team. One out of three from the original tryout group makes the team. It’s quite an accomplishment considering the competition.
So without further ado, during this tryout selection, in their first term on the team are Nils-Erik Riise, Scott Weimer and Jeremy Riss. For his second term is Tyler Barnes, and on their third terms are Linda Cowan and Kate Morrell. Congratulations to your new team members for 2010.
You will see them and the rest of their teammates, Terry McLeod, Rick Lyons, Dave Lucas and Karin Harjo out on the hill this coming winter along with Lane McLaughlin, Dave Lyon, Chris Thompson, Calvin Yamamoto, as well as myself representing our division. Already I can’t wait for winter! Pictured above from left to right are Nick McDonald, Rick Lyons, Chris Thompson, Karin Harjo, Lane McLaughlin, Kate Morrell, Linda Cowan, Scott Weimer, Tyler Barnes, Nils-Erik Riise, Jeremy Riss, and Dave Lucas. Not pictured are: Terry McLeod, Dave Lyon, and Calvin Yamamoto.
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