How does the team communicate updates?
We communicate through REMIND texts and email. Join the team REMIND group by texting @STHSALPINE to 81010.
How can I get a hold of coaches?
Contact: Coach Jones: djones@ltusd.org
What gear do I need?
See the Gear page to learn more.
Are dryland practices required?
Yes. Because the season is short, athletes are expected to handle conditioning on their own. Coach Sunzeri also hosts ski-specific training at B-Fit before and after school.
How do I report an absence?
If you can’t make a practice or race, let us know ASAP. Only absences submitted in writing (text or email) are considered excused.
How many practices do I need before I can race?
NIAA rules require athletes to complete 10 practices before competing.
Where and when are ski practices held?
Practices are held at Sierra-at-Tahoe, depending on transportation, weather, and hill conditions. Schedule: TBA, likely Wednesdays.
Is practice attendance required?
Yes. Attendance is taken and required. Athletes must stay until officially dismissed.
How do athletes get to practices and races?
Athletes must ride the LTUSD bus to practice and to races.
Can athletes go home with someone else?
Athletes may return home only with their legal guardian, and the guardian must sign the sign-out sheet. Athletes must stay for race results before leaving.
Can athletes ride with another student?
No. Students may not ride with any other student to practices or races.
Do athletes need a season pass?
Yes. Because Sierra-at-Tahoe provides training space at no cost to the school, athletes are expected to “give back” by purchasing a Sierra season pass. Passes must be worn during practice. Stay tuned for a practice schedule.
Are gate practices mandatory?
Yes. Gate training is required. We meet at the top of the course for inspection and stay until practice is fully complete, including take down. Leaving early = unexcused absence, and the athlete will miss the next race.
What happens if an athlete repeatedly leaves early or ditches practice?
1st offense — warning
2nd offense — miss next practice and/or race
3rd offense — removal from team
Do we have night training?
Yes, usually after New Year at Heavenly on the World Cup run. Athletes should arrive around 4:00 PM to help set up and stay until ~6:30 PM to break down the course.
Does every team member race?
Not necessarily. Team race roster max: 32 athletes (16 boys, 16 girls). Time trials and race results determine start order and eligibility. We aim to give as many athletes as possible at least one race opportunity.
Are there race fees?
Currently, all race fees are covered by STHS Athletics.
Do I need to submit a waiver for each race?
Yes. Every resort requires its own liability waiver. Forms must be handed in as you load the bus. Missing waivers = not eligible to attend.
How does an athlete earn a varsity letter?
Athletes earn points individually. A typical standard: three varsity results for the season. A varsity result = finishing in the top 50% of the race field.
How much school must I attend to participate?
• Practices: Must attend 2–3 full class periods (depending on schedule).
• Races: Must attend the last three full periods the day before a race.
What if a race is canceled?
If canceled the morning of the event, athletes must attend school that day to remain eligible for the make-up race.
What happens if an athlete skips training runs (freeskiing or park skiing instead of practicing)?
1st time — warning; possible loss of lift privileges
2nd time — miss the next practice and/or race
3rd time — removed from team
What if an athlete is late returning to the bus?
1st time — ineligible for next race
2nd time — ineligible for next week (practices and/or races)
3rd time — removed from team
What behaviors can result in a strike?
Disrespectful behavior, unsafe skiing, horseplay, foul language or gestures, or inappropriate conduct toward teammates or ski area staff. Three strikes = removal from team.
What if I miss my race start?
You will be moved to the last start position.
How are grades monitored?
Grade checks begin the first Monday of the season.
Three-week cycle:
• Week 1 — Informational
• Week 2 — Probation (warning)
• Week 3 — Penalty (any F = ineligible Monday–Saturday)
What happens with serious behavior issues?
Zero tolerance for:
• bullying
• harassment
• fighting
• substance abuse
• other Student Code of Conduct violations
These trigger an immediate review by the Athletic Director or Administration. Consequences can include suspension or dismissal from the team.
What should I do if I have a concern?
Step 1: Contact the Coach
Step 2: Contact the Athletic Director
Step 3: Meet with Athletic Administrator
Step 4: Contact the Superintendent’s Office