Ski Utah and Youth Sports Alliance to expand school program

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Ski Utah and Youth Sports Alliance (YSA) are expanding their school program for young skiers and riders.

Ski Utah and YSA said that over the past two decades, the school program has introduced thousands of fourth graders to skiing and snowboarding through single half-day ski or snowboard lessons during the school day.

Starting in the 2025–26 season, Ski Utah and YSA said that students will take part in four half-day lessons after school. Additionally, the program will expand to children in first through sixth grade.

“This is about expanding access to the slopes for kids throughout Utah,” said Nathan Rafferty, President of Ski Utah. “One day on the mountain can spark an interest, but four days gives them the confidence to keep coming back. Teaming up with YSA means we can make that experience possible for more families across the state, while also planting the seeds for the next generation of athletes who may take the world stage when the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games return to Utah in 2034.”

Transportation will be provided, and Ski Utah will continue to operate its existing school programs.

Scholarship opportunities

Ski Utah and YSA said that scholarships will be available for families making less than $120,000 annually. There will also be a tiered pricing structure.

“Our mission is to introduce kids to sports in a way that fosters confidence and belonging, while teaching kids the lifelong lessons of sports – perseverance, optimism and resilience. Partnering with Ski Utah allows us to connect more families to winter sports and provide resources that make participation possible for every child, regardless of financial barriers,” said Emily Fisher, Executive Director of YSA.

More information about the programs can be found on Ski Utah and YSA.