My two daughters are officially ski racers. They’ve been on the Sugar Bowl Ski Team for seven years now, skied twice this summer, and will attend winter term at Sugar Bowl Academy this coming season. Because of this burgeoning involvement in our sport, I’m often asked by other parents why they ski race and why [...]
One of the questions I’m asked most frequently from racers, coaches, and parents is: What does it take to be a successful ski racer? For any racer who wants to be their best, this is no easy question, yet one that is worth asking and worth even more to answer. First, let me address how [...]
I have three favorite sayings when it comes to being the best ski racer you can be. First, “If you want to ski like everyone else, be like everyone else.” In other words, if you want to be a decent ski racer among many, do what they do. Second, an old Texas adage says, “If [...]
With the summer around the corner, I thought it would be a good time to re-introduce my vlog series for for ski racers, athletes of all sports, and sport parents. The free vlogs are brief explorations (about 4 minutes long) of a specific topic related to the psychology of ski racing, sports in general, and being [...]
The off-season is now underway and you are probably hitting the gym and, hopefully, hitting the slopes soon as well some time in the next few months. Though getting the miles on snow is very important, a key focus during the off-season should be on building your fitness that acts as the foundation for all [...]
With the summer prep period rapidly approaching, now is a great time for racers to get their minds in great shape, coaches to sharpen their skills, and parents to be the best they can be as we all prepare for next winter. Good news; I can help! I’m pleased to announce the launch of my [...]
When you read the title of this week’s post, you’re probably wondering what the heck I’m talking about. You condition your body in the gym, not your mind, right? Well, yes, the gym is where you get your body stronger with hang cleans, squats, bench, core, and many other strength exercise. But here’s the really [...]
One of the most indelible memories I took away from the 2018 Winter Olympics was from the start area of the alpine events (and, in fact, every ski and snowboard event). Time after time, we saw the best ski racers in the world with their heads down and eyes closed, moving their hands and their [...]
It happens every winter. In December, January, and February, I get calls from national team athletes and parents of young racers who are struggling mentally in their ski racing and they have big races coming up. They want me to somehow fix them quickly. Though I think I’m pretty good at what I do, I’m [...]
The race season is finally over. After a long and demanding winter, you’re probably tired of skiing (regardless of whether the season was a triumph or a disappointment). It’s time to hang up your skis, pack away your gear, kick back, relax, and forget about ski racing for a few months, right? WRONG!!! Being the [...]
