Dear Parents,

We’re sadly (and slowly!) packing up to return home. This trip has far surpassed expectations, to say the least. It was a slight gamble to come all the way out here with reports of little snow, but we stuck to the plan and I’m so glad we did. It’s been a productive week. From hop turns and whirly birds on the hill to juggling in the condos, the kids have improved and bonded and formed a strong team dynamic that will lay the foundation for the rest of the season. We have a wonderfully diverse group of kids.

They will be tired this weekend! I suggest lots of rest and I strongly encourage you all to make the trip to Killington if you can. It’s worth the experience!

Special thanks to Joanie Barthold, our resident chef, for cooking homemade meals each day. Your kids are healthy because of her! And to Rich and Paul, the twins, for leading the charge with our boys’ team (and surviving!).

We’ll see you on the East Coast. Happy Thanksgiving!

Jane

Dear Parents,

We’re having a blast. Thanks for sending us.

–the U14s

Here’s an overview of what you need to know regarding our U14 trip out West:

Our super excellent coaching staff for the week includes Joanie Barthold, Rich Joseph, Paul Decker, and myself, with a guest weekend appearance by Monica Redente. It’s safe to say your kids are in responsible care!

Flight Info: The group flight plan is as follows:
Departure: Southwest Flight 2448 5:45pm BOS  – DEN (8:50pm arrival)
Return: Southwest Flight 5028 9:55am DEN – BOS (3:40pm arrival)

Dartmouth Coach: We will take the 12pm bus to Logan Airport on Friday, November 18th. I’ve confirmed with the bus company that we’re traveling as a large group. You can purchase your tickets online at any point. It would be best to load the bus in the same location. I assume Lebanon is easier for parking, unloading, giving hugs, and going over the last minute “did you remember” list with your kids. If you plan to travel with the group, please meet at the Lebanon station before our 12pm departure.

We’ll return on the 4:50pm bus from Logan on Friday November 25, which arrives into Lebanon at 8pm.

Lodging & Transportation: Athletes will stay with the U14 coaching crew at the Gateway in Keystone. We have separate condos for the girls and boys and we’ll take care of all meals. I’ve rented two 15 passenger vans for the week so no one should be stuck walking to the mountain!

Packing List: Ski gear (too much to list)! Dryland clothes and running shoes. Bathing suits. And of course all the other week-long essentials.

Skis:
a pair of slalom skis
a pair of rock/powder skis…old GS skis or twin tips are fine!

Where We’ll Ski: TBD, but most likely Loveland on the weekend and A-Basin during the week. For parents who would like to get in on the group ticket deal, please let me know.

If you have specific questions that I haven’t answered here, please email me!