UCLA Ski and Snowboard Scene: From Competitive Teams to Laid-Back Clubs
UCLA offers a vibrant winter sports community, catering to a diverse range of interests and skill levels. From the competitive Snowteam to more relaxed ski and snowboard clubs, students have ample opportunities to hit the slopes and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow snow enthusiasts.
The Genesis of a Need: Beyond the Snowteam
Upon arriving at school freshman year, a close-knit group of friends sharing a passion for snow sports went in search of the various ski/snowboard opportunities UCLA had to offer. To their surprise, UCLA didn't have a ski club - only a ski team. While the UCLA Snowteam has a long-standing tradition and offers opportunities for serious competition, its structure and cost may not appeal to all students. The team's sign-up cost and competition enrollment didn't identify with the crew. Recognizing this gap, students sought a more accessible and relaxed environment.
Los Angeles Ski and Board Club: A Relaxed Alternative
Understanding the need for a more laid-back environment, the Los Angeles Ski and Board Club emerged. They were interested in a cheaper, more laid-back atmosphere where people could kick it and hit the slopes. Los Angeles Ski and Board Club offers ski trips for all levels of skiers and snowboarders with plenty of fun after the slopes close. This club provides a contrast to the Snowteam, focusing on recreational trips and a social atmosphere.
The UCLA Snowteam: Thriving Despite the Odds
Faced with the challenge of existing in a region in which temperatures seldom enter the low 40s ““ much less the low 30s ““ UCLA’s Ski and Snowboard Team, better known as the Snowteam, has not only survived but thrived. The Snowteam has a membership limit of 90, and annually hovers at or near that number. The team has carved out a significant presence in the Southern California Collegiate Snowsport Conference (SCCSC). Apparently, rather than being a burden, Los Angeles’ lack of snow is a motivator to get people to the mountains. “People are really excited to get out of L.A.,” team vice president and fourth-year marine biology student Nicole Gormley said.
Location, Location, Location: Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Mountain is a ski resort situated in the High Sierras, about five hours north of Los Angeles. The team makes regular trips to Mammoth Mountain, a popular destination for Southern California skiers and snowboarders. “The drive’s not really bad,” Bechtold said. “Back in Maryland, you’re going to drive three or four hours for really bad hills that are all icy, just no good riding. The proximity to this high-quality resort makes it feasible for UCLA students to pursue their passion for snow sports despite the lack of local snow.
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Competition in the SCCSC
On weekends when the team is competing, UCLA joins the other member schools of the Southern California Collegiate Snowsport Conference in both individual and team competition. The SCCSC offers a wide variety of competitions, including slalom, giant slalom, boarder/skier cross, halfpipe and slopestyle. UCLA fields a strong team; in 2010, UCLA placed second in the overall standings in the SCCSC and placed first overall in 2009. The team consistently performs well in these competitions, demonstrating their dedication and skill.
Self-Coaching: A Unique Approach
With the success of the team in mind, it seems odd, then, that UCLA has no coach. After paying expensive dues, gear and lift passes, there is not much money left for a paid coach. Instead, the team must find coaches within its own membership. Team captains and experienced members are relied upon to provide instruction to both newer members and veterans alike. This self-coaching approach fosters a strong sense of community and shared responsibility within the team. With the team open to riders of all skill levels, this self-coaching is of crucial importance as many, if not most, of UCLA’s team members never raced or competed before joining the team. Though the SCCSC does offer a bit of coaching, it is almost entirely up to the captains and veterans to prepare the team for competition. “The captains are really just spot-on with it all,” Bechtold said.
Balancing Competition and Fun
With the success UCLA has enjoyed on the slopes, one might imagine that the team is all business. “We’re serious about the competition in that when we’re competing, we want to win,” Gormley said. But that was not the main goal, she said, and the others agreed. “It’s definitely about fun, even the competition. It is that attitude that keeps the UCLA Snowteam going strong. While the team is dedicated to performing well in competitions, they also prioritize having fun and creating a positive team environment.
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