The Skills Development Program "Jackrabbit"

Jackrabbit Registration Form Coming Soon

The Skills Development Program "Jackrabbit" is a National Program under the guidance of cross Country Canada. The program is aimed to teach children to ski in a fun and controlled environment. The program is comprised of three Levels or Stages - Bunnyrabbit, Jackrabbit, and Track Attack. These three programs allow youths to move through the stages according to their abilities, skills and desires. The overall objective is to assist children in the development of love of the outdoors, a healthy lifestyle, excellent technical skills and a good level of physical fitness within a sport environment.

Bunnyrabbit Program:

The Bunnyrabbit program the first stage is aimed at children 5 years of age (under 6). The objective is to introduce them to cross country skiing and the healthy lifestyle associated with it, is designed to:

• Help the child develop a positive self image
• Be Fun
• Provide the child an opportunity to make ski friends
• Develop their skills
• Help the child develop an awareness of our natural environment

Jackrabbit Program:

The Jackrabbit program is the second stage and is directed at the "FUNdamentals" for children 6 to 9 years of age (under 10) in the sport of cross country skiing three important aspects need to be developed: technique, fitness and speed. This step in the program has an award system to help children keep track of their progress. The awards are:

• Technique Awards - Levels 1-5
• Program Awards:

                - Beckie Scott "Sprint" Award: 5 Levels

                - Richard Weber "Snow Goal" Award: 5 goals

                - Pierre Harvey "Hat Trick" Award: 5 Levels

Track Attack Program:

The Track Attack Program is directed at youths 10 to 12 years of age (under 13), this is the third and final stage in the Skills Development Program. This program is being developed and still not finalized; an Attack Log (age appropriate sequel to the Jackrabbit booklet) is underway.

Last year 70 young people were registered for the program. The start date for the program this winter is January 8th, 2006 at 1:15 p.m. No registration will be taken on that day.  Please register prior to January 5th 2006. The program is open to all members of the Porcupine Ski Runners and registration is $30.00 per child. For further information and or registration for the program please contact Jackrabbit leader Kelleigh Manseau or Cheryl Allard.

Parents may ski with the group and learn with them. Children should come to the ski session prepared, that is warm clothing and skis waxed. Children should have something to eat but not be to full when they begin to ski. Encourage them to drink water prior to the ski session to keep hydrated. A snack will be provided during each session. Northern Sports will provide help for parents looking to purchase and waxing skis.

Bunnyrabbit – 5 years and under –

Classic only

Jackrabbit – 6-9 years

Levels 1- 2 & 3 Classic

                        Levels 4 & 5 Classic & Skate – Classic and skate

Track Attack – 10-13 and under-Program adjusted according to number of skiers Classic and Skate.