PSIA National Team Tryouts

I'm Ron Shepard, a 30 year member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America, and I have been selected to represent my friends from PSIA-Central Division at the PSIA-AASI National Team Selection, held April 17-21 at Breckenridge, Colorado. This is the third step of the team selection process, and one that represents a significant commitment by all involved.

The road to Breckenridge is going to be filled with opportunities for learning and growth- and it is a test of skiing, teaching, and presentation skills.   It will also represent a huge financial drain, and a stress to the finances of my new family- which is why I'm asking for your support. I am asking for your help as I fund the event costs, lodging, and additional lift tickets needed for training days in advance of the event. While candidates from other divisions have the good fortune of divisional support for lodging and many of their costs, the representatives from Central Division are attending independently and self-funded. Yes, I've got much of it covered already, and I appreciate the tremendous support I have had from PSIA-Central, from my employer, and from Marker, Dalbello, Volkl. You guys truly rock.  Still, this is my version of "the candy bar sale"- (please forgive me if it seems bold)- the only means by which I can attain the last remaining funds to support my attempt at making the team.


If it seems irresponsible to take time away from work to pursue a slot on the National Team, I understand how you feel- yet this has been a dream of mine since I began teaching in the early eighties, one that has never wavered, never died. It would seem just as irresponsible to let such an opportunity pass by. I hope I'll be able to convey to you how valuable an experience this is, and how participation brings back new content to the local membership.



I made an unsuccessful bid for the team eight years ago- then skipped a tryout so I could work two summers at Mt. Hutt in New Zealand, and now I'm back for what must be my final attempt. The lessons I learned and brought home to my school- from both the earlier tryouts and from New Zealand, have been invaluable, and I expect this contest to be just as dense with tools and tips, insights and information as 40 of my contemporaries bring their best to the table.
When I return, whether or not my bid is successful, I hope to be an inspiration to the members of my own ski school, as well as those instructors with whom I interact through PSIA Central and Intermountain exams and educational events. If you can help, I truly appreciate your support- I'm heading out for the event on the 16th of April to acclimate, and tryouts begin the 17th and go through the 21st.


No-one likes to ask (or beg) for money, and you probably know that I have been back and forth on whether to go this route. Ultimately I knew I had to in order to make to make it possible to see my dream through to the end, while not risking the financial security of those who depend upon me.  I also know that there are many causes that warrant your attention and support;  you are not assisting me through a crisis, or mitigating a life-or-death situation-you are simply helping me pursue a dream, and for that I am extremely grateful.

You can learn more about the selection process here: PSIA-AASI National Team

I appreciate your support, both moral and financial!

Ron


Thanks from both of us.