November 17, 2015 – Over 30 Bill Koch leaders attended the NENSA Bill Koch Coaching Clinic today at Holderness. There were great presentations and demonstrations that sparked many discussions about youth development and coaching. Click below for details from the day.

Jim Stock from EMBKL started the day. © NENSA

Jim Stock from EMBKL started the day by presenting on what EMBKL focuses on in their BKL and what coaches can do during the important transition out of a BKL. He gave many specific examples on what to do during this transition such as using process goals, working on speed during this time, and making skiing up in High School races or at an Eastern Cup less scary.

Coaches Garrott Kuzzy and Katrina Howe from GMVS © NENSA

Coaches Garrott Kuzzy and Katrina Howe from GMVS demonstrated games that teach skills and how to keep practices all inclusive and at the approprate level for your skiers.

During lunch, Patrick Ruane from Swix demonstrated basic waxing techniques. © NENSA

During lunch, Patrick Ruane from Swix demonstrated basic waxing techniques, introduced the latest Swix spray on kick wax and how to use glide wax cleaner. He also had Swix hats and socks as free gifts for everyone at the clinic!

John Ogden from West River BKL © NENSA

John Ogden from West River BKL shared his BKL coaching philosophy with specific examples on what he does at practice and how that achieves his goals as a coach. He then had the group go through the exercise of writing down their own coaching philosophy, which will help them in designing their own BKL practices.

Jamie Hannon from Plymouth State University © NENSA

Lastly, Jamie Hannon from Plymouth State University shared his wealth of experience as an Adventure Educator, showing ways to create a sense of community and comfortability amongst a group through adventure, outdoor activities and games.

Thank you gifts from L.L.Bean for the presenters. © NENSA

Many thanks to our presenters for their informative and motivating talks, to L.L.Bean for providing thank you gifts, to our leaders for spending the day with us, and to Holderness School for hosting a great day!