Summer camp season is one of our favorite times of year at NENSA. As we travel around New England visiting camps, we get the opportunity to connect with hundreds of young skiers, share the joy of Nordic skiing, and introduce new skills through games, exploration, and plenty of laughter.
Last week, we spent the morning with the fantastic crew at Sleepy Hollow Camp, where 20 campers from across Northwest Vermont rollerskis and discovered that skiing doesn’t have to wait for winter.
We talked about what rollerskiing is and why athletes use it. While older skiers spend lots of time training on rollerskis, our goal for Bill Koch League skiers is much simpler: introduce a new movement skill in a fun environment. Rollerskiing is another way to build balance, agility, coordination, and confidence, all while keeping the focus on FUN.
We also kicked things off with a fun icebreaker, asking campers to share their favorite ice cream flavor. While there were plenty of delicious answers, maple soft serve quickly emerged as the crowd favorite, a fitting choice for a group of Vermont skiers!
After reviewing safety, athletic stance, and the basics of starting and stopping on skis without brakes, campers split into two groups. One group headed to the nearby bike path to explore classic rollerskiing, while the other stayed in the CVU parking lot to play skate games and work through agility challenges. Halfway through the session, the groups switched so everyone had the chance to experience both techniques.
The best part was watching campers encourage one another, celebrate small successes, and leave with smiles on their faces. Whether on snow or pavement, our goal is to help young skiers discover that Nordic skiing is something they can enjoy for a lifetime.
We’re grateful to the Sleepy Hollow coaches and volunteers for welcoming us back each summer, and we can’t wait to continue visiting camps and clubs throughout New England in the weeks ahead.
Want to Give Rollerskiing a Try?
NENSA’s Learn-to-Rollerski Clinics are designed for skiers who are new to rollerskiing and want to build confidence in a supportive, fun environment. Participants use NENSA’s rollerski fleet while learning the fundamentals of stopping, turning, balance, agility, and basic ski technique through engaging games and activities. Many clinics are held in partnership with local clubs and summer camps, making them a great first step into year-round skiing.
Check the NENSA Events Calendar for upcoming Learn-to-Rollerski clinics and other youth events near you, we’d love to see you out on wheels!
