The purpose of the Maine Coast Nordic Youth Ski program, held in conjunction with Cumberland Recreation, is to have fun on skis and develop an appreciation for Nordic skiing. An appreciation toward the sport will help promote an active lifestyle and better health. In the program, skiers receive instruction, ski together in groups, and play games on skis. Skiers are grouped together with country names such as Norway, Canada and the United States based on their experience level which enables the kids to always be comfortable with their peer group.

At the conclusion of the program, those who were beginners will become comfortable with the aspects of the sport. Historically, the program has empowered skiers, some who’ve who have never been on skis, to fully enjoy the sport for years to come. Many of these new skiers have gone on to introduce their parents to the sport.

Additionally, skiers have the option of taking part in several fun races/events that are held throughout Southern Maine. These events also carry the same purpose of having fun on skis. The races allow skiers to develop camaraderie with each other, feel a sense of accomplishment, and if desired, compete. These events are a great option for any of our skiers who want to take their sport to a new level.
At the conclusion of our program, skiers are strongly encouraged to take part on the Bill Koch Ski Festival, held each year in a different New England state. The festival is a celebration of skiing and leaves a dramatic imprint in the lives of young skiers.

The essential element for a strong program is coaches. In most cases, coaches are parents. Coaches do not have to have skiing skills to be able to help out in this program. They need to possess a supportive attitude, a willingness to learn, and a desire to have fun. Many times, coaches will experience the same exuberance as the young skiers!

For all of the skiers and coaches in the program, proper equipment is needed. This equipment can be purchased locally at the various pre-season ski sales or at a number of local shops. Equipment for the young skiers is also available through the Healthy Hometown ski lease program.