Adaptive skiing built around the individual

At Arctic Squad – Adaptive Ski Development Club, we believe that disability should not be a barrier to developing as a skier.

We currently focus on adaptive stand-up skiers who have progressed beyond the beginner stage and want the opportunity to improve their technique, confidence and independence.

Every skier is different. A diagnosis does not define someone's ability, so our coaches and volunteers aim to understand each member as an individual and adapt sessions wherever reasonably possible to help them learn, progress and enjoy being part of the Squad.

Autism

Autistic skiers may benefit from additional support with communication, sensory sensitivities, changes in routine, anxiety, social interaction or processing instructions.

We can support members through clear explanations, visual demonstrations, predictable session structures, additional processing time and appropriate breaks where needed.

Most importantly, we'll get to know the individual skier and understand what helps them learn and enjoy their skiing.

Down Syndrome

Skiers with Down syndrome may experience differences in areas such as muscle tone, balance, coordination, strength and motor development.

Our approach is based on the individual and may include additional time to develop skills, repeated demonstrations, clear instructions and appropriate support.

The emphasis is always on what the skier can do and what they would like to achieve next.

Cerebral Palsy (CP)

Cerebral palsy can affect movement, muscle control, posture, balance and coordination in different ways, and no two people with CP are exactly the same.

Where appropriate, coaching can be adapted to the skier's movement, balance and individual requirements. Some skiers may use adapted techniques or equipment, while others may ski using standard equipment.

Our aim is to help each skier develop their own effective technique while building confidence and independence.

Learning Disabilities & Learning Difficulties

Some skiers may benefit from information being presented differently or having additional time to understand and practise a new skill.

Our coaching may include breaking techniques into smaller steps, demonstrations, repetition and allowing additional practice time.

We want members to learn at a pace that works for them while still having opportunities to challenge themselves and progress.

Other Disabilities

The conditions above are examples rather than an exhaustive list.

We recognise that disability is incredibly diverse, and we welcome enquiries from people with other physical, neurological, developmental or learning disabilities who are interested in stand-up skiing.

Rather than deciding whether someone can join Arctic Squad simply because of their diagnosis, we'd prefer to have a conversation about their skiing, their individual needs and what support might be appropriate.

Is Arctic Squad Right for Me?

Arctic Squad is a ski development club rather than a beginner ski programme.

As a general guide, members should already be able to:

• use the ski lift, independently or with an appropriate level of support;

• make linked turns on an artificial ski slope;

• control their speed and direction at an appropriate level; and

• take part safely within a coached group environment, with reasonable adjustments where required.

If you're not sure whether you meet these criteria, please don't let that stop you from contacting us.

We'd much rather talk to you, understand your skiing experience and discuss whether Arctic Squad could be right for you.

Different Needs. Shared Slopes. One Squad.

Our aim isn't simply to provide separate disability sessions.

Once each month, Arctic Squad members will also have the opportunity to ski alongside members of North Wales Snowsports Club, helping disabled and non-disabled skiers train, develop and enjoy the sport together.

Because for us, inclusion means more than being invited onto the slope.