And what's the best way to get into the thick of the action of a ski competition? Become an official! There are a variety of tasks to match almost anyone's interest when it comes to organizing a competition.

The Hollyburn Jackrabbit Ski Club will be offering several training sessions to help you deliver a positive and fun learning experience to the kids or to learn all about putting on events and competitions. It is a great opportunity to get out of the house, meet other new coaches or officials (experienced ones too) and also get some fitness in.

These sessions are open to all members of the club no matter what your ability level is. You should come out if...

• You are not a coach but are interested in becoming one… maybe… next year
• You are a confident skier but need some teaching tips
• You have some experience and would like to help others
• You are a parent and would like to get some technique feedback

The National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP), which is the training program that the club uses for coaching training, is evolving. CBET, an acronym for Competency Based Education and Training, is the name for the new structure. Amongst other significant changes, there is no longer a Level 1. It has become Community Coaching courses. For more information, go to http://www.cccski.com/main.asp?cmd=doc&ID=2145&lan=0 on Cross Country Canada's web site for a full description.

This season, we are offering the following key courses:

November 7-8: The NCCP Introduction to Community Coaching course is a requirement for all new leaders. Without this course, you cannot teach in our program. This program allows you to teach Jackbunnies and is the first of the NCCP coaching courses.

November 22: For those interested in assisting with officiating competitions, both at the club level and outside the club, should take this course. It provides an excellent overview of the structure of competitions and the different officiating positions.

December 6: Coaches select one of two sessions. Basic teaching progressions, games, an overview of our program and what will be done on the first day will be amongst the items that will be covered. You will also be able to meet your teaching colleagues.

January 2-4: The NCCP Advanced Community Coaching course is a  requirement for any coaches that wish to teach Jackrabbits. With the addition of post-course assignments and an evaluation, you become a certified community coach.

The training sessions that we offer will help with your personal ski technique, provide you with a bigger "Bag of Tricks" for teaching the kids and will be a good fitness workout. Additional clinics or training may be offered throughout the season.

And we're developing a team of officials as well! If you'd like to get involved in the fun and excitement and be right in the heart of the action, then we'd like to invite you to help out. There are many exciting officiating opportunities taking place, both at our club-run races and at races throughout B.C. For anyone interested in volunteering at the Vancouver Olympics in 2010, they'll be looking for experience at the club level, and the time to get started is now. Your first step is to take the Officials Level 1 course on November 17.

Look at the schedule below for dates to fit into your schedule. Please ensure your availability for both the selected sessions and the required training before signing up as a coach.