CARRABASSETT VALLEY – Carrabassett Valley Academy (CVA) was one of 16 clubs recognized in the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) podium certification process as part of the USSA’s new club development program. CVA was recognized on May 13 at the annual USSA Club Excellence Conference in Park City, Utah with the highest classification of Gold Certification.
The podium level certification process involved a rigorous self-study and peer review of best principles and practices for ski and snowboard clubs. The process included two on-site visits and a full review conducted by USSA High Performance staff and club consultants who are leaders in the ski and snowboard club world.
This process not only recognizes program excellence, but also gives a clear road map for all clubs to become stronger organizations. This is a strategic part of USSA’s plans to support clubs, be a more club-based organization and better understand the challenges and opportunities that exist for ski and snowboard programs in every corner of the country.
Brian Krill, USSA club development manager commented, “Podium-certified organizations like CVA represent a more and more diverse mix of clubs on many levels. This process proves beneficial especially to clubs that may not have gotten as much attention from USSA as others in the past.” And club consultant Steve Cohan said, “The structured certification process not only systematically works through the prescribed materials but also provides the opportunity to dig deep into real-world issues facing these clubs.”
Through this program, the USSA is working in closer partnership with member clubs to recognize excellence and create a platform for continued success. USSA clubs are skiing and snowboarding’s biggest asset to athlete recruitment and development. As USSA works hand-in-hand with clubs the performance and experiences of athletes and teams at all levels will be enhanced.
“The CVA and Sugarloaf Ski Club communities are proud to receive the Gold Club Certification from USSA,” said Head of School Kate Webber Punderson. “We would like to thank USSA for being a key partner in our programs. Every day we strive to provide a balanced athletic, academic and community experience for each of our student-athletes. The Club Certification will be a valuable tool as we continually develop new levels of excellence.”
Sugarloaf Mountain Ski Club Director Bruce Miles added, “Since 1950, the Sugarloaf Mountain Ski Club has been committed to supporting competitive skiing and snowboarding. Earning USSA’s highest accreditation validates all of our hard work and the strong partnership CVA, the Ski Club, and Sugarloaf Mountain have fostered over the years.”
Solidifying CVA’s Gold Certification was the recent announcement of 2015-16 National Team members. In total, seven CVA athletes were named to their respective national teams including alumni Seth Wescott (U.S. boardercross), Alex Tuttle (U.S. boardercross), Bode Miller (U.S. ski racing), Sam Morse (U.S. ski racing), Jeremy Cota (U.S. moguls), Nessa
Dziemian (U.S. moguls), and current CVA senior Liam Moffatt (Canadian boardercross).
Punderson commented, “Both our USSA Gold Certification and our National Team representation are great motivators to continue and improve upon our best practice programming. I am proud of our organization, employees, Sugarloaf Ski Club, volunteers, athletes and alumni for their uncompromising pursuit of success, and love of our winter sports.”
Congratulations on recognition of your dedication, excellence and success.