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Youth Programs - (U12 - U18)

The programming for Our U12 - U18 Racers adheres to the development programming laid out by Nordiq Alberta. The Track Attack program targets the Learning to Train stage of development. The focus of the program is to help participants become technically competent cross-country skiers and use their skills to explore a wide range of ski activities throughout the winter and summer.

The U16 - U18 Program gives older athletes options from recreational participation to more intense training for those wishing to pursue competitive racing the opportunity to hone their technique and integrate individualized training programs. 

It is expected that athletes in these programs participate in most, if not all, of the Alberta Cup Race Series. 

The season for Track Attack and RDN Racer athletes begins mid September and runs through the end of March (or until the snow is gone).

All athletes registered in Track Attack and RDN Racers will receive an RDN training shirt.

Be sure to review our Cold Weather Policy here for those chilly nights!

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Youth Head Coach
Graham Vanderwater

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Track Attack (U12 - U14)

For youth who have completed the Jackrabbits Level 5 and are ready to take their training and racing to the next level. This full season program will focus on improving skate and classic techniques in a fun social environment. Skiers will grow their technique, strength and endurance. Skiers will also have a chance to learn backcountry skills. Ski experience equivalent to Level 5 in Jackrabbits or Learn - to - Ski Level 2 is the minimum level to take best advantage of Track Attack. Coaching is provided by our head coach and trained parent coach volunteers. 
Skiers will be: 

  • challenged to improve their skate and classic ski techniques on flat and hilly terrain

  • encouraged to participate in local ski loppets, and other weekend activities like ski orienteering, and waxing clinics

  • introduced to dressing for winter outdoor pursuits, nutrition, hydration and ski care

  • encouraged to ski at least once a week outside of Nordic with friends and family to continue to develop their skills and maintain their fitness.

  • encouraged to apply and manage their own waxing 

  • encouraged to try biathlon

Dryland and On-Snow Training 

 

2026-2027 Details coming soon.

Prerequisite: Jackrabbits level 4

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Intro to Track Attack (U12-U14)

A nordic program designed for young skiers who did not participate in the "Jackrabbits" program but are beginning their ski training between ages 10-14. OR, for those wanting a recreational option to continue skill development. Coaches will instruct the fundamentals on ski technique and skills. A fun way to begin, or carry on with your skiing. 

 

Skiers will :

  • be introduced to basic classic and skate ski techniques on flat terrain progressing to hilly terrain

  • build fitness and endurance

  • learn how to dress for cold weather

  • learn basic ski waxing techniques

  • have opportunities to participate in fun Jackrabbits events

 

2026-2027 Details coming soon.

Prerequisite: none, willingness to learn.

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RDN Racers - (U14-U18)

The focus for older youth and racing programs will be to improve technique, increase athlete's fitness, strength, and mental preparedness for Alberta Cups, and other races. The program is facilitated by the RDN head coach with support from trained parent coaches and provides specific skill directed fun practices in a team setting, where friendships can be fostered. Individual training plans, and Coaching/waxing support is provided for all Alberta Cup races in this program price. 

Skiers will:

  • be on a monitored training plan beginning September 3rd requiring an additional 2-3 days of individual training per week in addition to our group sessions.

  • be challenged to improve skate and classic technique on a variety of terrain throughout the province

  • work and communicate with coaches to find a healthy balance between school, family, self, training and racing

  • learn about the physical impact of training, mental training, time management, sport nutrition, racing strategy, equipment/ski preparation, and being a good team member

  • work towards becoming an independent 24-hour athlete

  • all athletes will be given the opportunity to try biathlon

 

2026-2027 Details coming soon.

Regular:

(Dryland + On-Snow)

Intro to Training: 

(Off-Season Training Plan Build and Design beginning May 1 (unsupervised) + Dryland + On-snow)

Competition Yearly Training Plan

(Off-season supervised training plan + Dryland + On-Snow)

Prerequisite: Track Attack

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Recreation Program (U12-U18) 

U12-U18 Recreational Program

This flexible recreational program is designed to empower athletes to be active for life and make friends while enjoying skiing on our beautiful trails.

Participants may choose between 1 or 2 days per week and will join their friends in TA and RDN during their lessons. 

 

Prerequisite:

Athletes should have completed Jackrabbits level 4 or YLTS.

 

2026-2027 Details coming soon.

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Biathlon Add On

Biathlon combines rifle marksmanship and cross-country skiing. Originally used as a form of hunting in Scandinavia, it has evolved into an exciting, high-paced winter sport. Biathlon challenges participants with a diverse range of skills that no other sport requires – the endurance, speed, strength and coordination needed for cross-country skiing and the concentration, focus, and split-second timing needed for fast and accurate target shooting.

 

Programs are offered as a part of the Red Deer Nordic programming for all U12 and older athletes registered in programming at River Bend Golf and Recreation Area.  

2026-2027 Details coming soon.

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Sunday FUNday (all ages)

Red Deer Nordic Ski Club is excited to plan and host 3 Sunday FUNday community skis this winter. All ages, all levels are welcome to join. Meet some great people and explore some of Central Alberta's beautiful trails. Mark your calendars and join us on the following dates: 

2026-2027 Details coming soon.

Required Equipment: 

skate and classic skis

skate and classic poles

skate and classic boots

* ski and boot rentals are available at additional cost if needed*

roller ski tips for poles

ski striding/bounding poles

roller skiing protective gear (helmet mandatory)

appropriate winter clothing for training and before/after skiing

water bottle you can wear

watch with timer

headlamp (mandatory)

basic wax kit

running shoes

training log

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