What to expect at the tryouts
Our tryouts are held once a year in late February. We've tried lots of different arrangements and are open to new ideas but the logistics and snow requirements make alternatives nearly impossible to coordinate. We have lots of great (and not so great) skiers and riders that want to join us. The only way for us to tell the difference is seeing you on snow. This is mandatory.
Not sure you have what it takes? Worried about the time commitment this year, but may be better off in the future? TRY OUT. It's easier to tryout, miss it, get some feedback, work on skills and try out again in a season or two than to wait until the timing is perfect then not make it.
What we cover
This half-day on snow session allows us to evaluate your existing skill level and ensure a proper foundation to become a patroller. During the evaluation, we will run you through drills on a variety of terrain - snowplow, side-slip, falling leaf, traverse, kick turns, long, medium, and short radius turns, bumps, etc. You do not have to be an expert skier or snowboarder but you must be a competent, secure, and confident skier or snowboarder.
We want to see solid fundamentals. Not tricks, speed, or zippers down the moguls.
Wait.. I made it?
First.. buckle up for a fun but wild ride. What happens next:
Training Sequence
- Medical Training (Classroom): April - August. Fridays after work. Usually in Montgomery County.
- Medical Training (Field): September - December. Saturday morning to mid-afternoon. Usually at Liberty Mountain Resort.
- Toboggan and Mountain Operations: January to whenever you pass.
Costs: $395 gets your textbook and medical equipment.
Benefits:
- An Epic Northeast value season pass for you and your dependents.
- NSP equipment discounts (including Rossignol, Dynastar, Smith, Mammut & Merrell, amongst others)
Shift Schedule Options
New patrollers are expected to work 2 weekend shifts every other weekend to gain the experience needed to reinforce their training. After that, there are two options:
- One weeknight every week, from 6:00PM until closing, or approximately 10:30.
- Every other weekend, Saturday and Sunday, rotating AM (7AM to 3PM) or PM (3PM to closing) shifts
Need to miss a shift? Don't worry, so do your friends. Shift swaps are common and encouraged.
* All stated costs, schedules, and location are subject to revision.
** Shift schedule subject to availability.