Youth Ski League (YSL)

YSL refines fundamental skiing skills across varied terrain and snow conditions while introducing giant slalom and slalom race techniques. Training commitment is flexible—choose 1 to 4 training sessions per week at registration to match each athlete’s competitive goals.

This program emphasizes:

  • Technique: Timing, weight distribution. upper/lower body separation, and single-pole planting

  • Race Tactics: Line choice and tactical elements of GS & SL courses

Skiers are placed in small training groups—grouped by age and ability—to ensure the right fit.

YSL is ideal for skiers desiring speed, technique, and competitions.

Ideal minimum training commitment is 2 days.

  • YSL placement requires a Skills Quest Assessment or coach recommendation.

    Most athletes have successfully completed our Devo training and are ready for the next step in skills development and have a desire for alpine competition. 

    YSL skiers are ages 8-11 at the beginning of the season. They are confident parallel skiers on blue terrain and are ready to challenge their technique and body control to increase their speed control.

    YSL is a competition team. Athletes who train more frequently will have higher success at competitions. All YSL athletes are ready to grow teamwork and sportsmanship to the next level and look forward to progressing through the Alpine Race programs.

    If your athlete isn’t ready to commit to the Alpine Race Program track, or doesn’t prefer the competitive focus, Devo+ may be a better fit.

    • 8 Dryland training sessions prior to the season starting.

    • Weekend and weekday on-snow training options (1-4 training days/week can be selected at registration) with an experienced coach and planned curriculum from resort opening through the end of March.

    • Snowbasin Ski Team jacket, t-shirt, and beanie

    • Three YSL races

    • 7 to 1 Athlete to coach ratio

    • TeamSnap app membership

    • Holiday Camp

    • Option to add-on additional trainings, such as outside resort trainings, Summer Training Camp, and extra trainings before races.

    Tuition for this program also includes a discount for a Snowbasin season pass (purchased separately).

  • YSL tuition varies by how many training days per week are desired:
    4 days $4,500: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
    3 days $4050: Wednesday or Friday (selected at registration), plus Saturday and Sunday.
    2 days $3,300: Coaches recommend at least one weekend day. New this year: this option includes a “flexible day” which allows the athlete to register for two days, but one of the days can occasionally be flexed to a different day to allow for special training opportunities (RSVP in TeamSnap at least a week in advance)
    1 day $2,500: Either Saturday or Sunday. Note: This option doesn’t not allow for adequate training in preparation for races. Athletes and supporting adults should have an understanding that this option allows for enjoying the fun team experience with an expectation of limited performance outcomes.

    Optional add-ons are available:

    • Utah Olympic Park and Powder Mountain training days

    • Additional YSL training days $90/day (option for 3/2/1 day athletes)

    A season lift pass is required. After registration, you will receive a discount code for your athlete’s pass. This code will bring the cost to $410.98, which is a 20% discount from the lowest price.

    Any equipment rental or purchase will be additional. Many of our sponsors offer surprisingly deep discounts. We also host a gear swap at the beginning of the season, if you want to buy or sell used equipment.

  • YSL trains from 9AM to 3pm on weekends. Since they are on the lift at 9am, athletes meet their coaches at the base of Becker Chairlift at 8:30. Pick up is in the same area at 3pm.

    Weekday trainings are from 12:30-4pm from the same location

  • Required YSL Equipment

    • Ski Boots

      • Should feel snug (like a firm handshake) but never painful.

      • Toes lightly touch the front when standing, lift off when you flex forward.

      • Heel must stay firmly in place when flexing.

      • Most kids fit off-the-shelf; custom fitting by a master boot fitter only if necessary.

      • Prioritize comfort and a dry interior over stiffness.

    • Skis with Bindings

      • Skis should be midwidth. They can be directional or twin tip.

      • Ski length: between nose and full height.

    • Hard Eared Helmet & Goggles

    • Ski Pants, Gloves, Layers

      • Outerwear: 20,000 mm-rated team jacket; 10,000–20,000 mm-rated snow pants.

      • Gloves/Mittens: Insulated and weather-resistant.

      • Layers: Base layer + fleece/down mid-layer; adjust by temperature.

      • Socks: One pair—two pairs can cause discomfort.

    • Ski Poles

      • When the athlete is in their boots, have them hold the pole upside-down under the basket, while the handle end is on the level ground. When their elbow is at 90°, the pole is the correct size.

    Please note that additional equipment may be required or recommended for races.
    For example, some kids like to wear race suits or additional safety equipment.

  • If the program descriptions, informational links, equipment recommendations, or answers to Frequently Asked Questions did not address your concern, please contact:

    Craig Haaser
    Alpine Program Director
    craig@snowbasinskiteam.org