Deaf & Hard of Hearing Program
The Midwest Sport/Ski Council offers people with hearing loss, the opportunity to learn how to downhill ski and snowboard. The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Learn to Ski/Snowboard Program for beginning to intermediate skiers, promotes self-confidence, physical activity, and skill set development.
The program takes place at Hyland Ski & Snowboard Area in Bloomington. Equipment & lift tickets are provided for students at minimal cost, and lift tickets are free for qualified instructors who have completed the mandatory training clinic. The people involved in this program donate their time for teaching and other assistance as needed; non-council people are also welcome. There are many rewards for program participants, including the students’ smiles as they discover that they too can enjoy the sport of skiing and snowboarding.
The training program for new instructors consists of two clinics provided by the Hyland SnowSports Academy, and MSC volunteer Instructors. Participants are taught step-by-step methods in the art of teaching people to ski. In addition, these clinics will substantially develop your own skiing skills. Anyone with intermediate or better ability can qualify as an instructor.
When working with the deaf & hard of hearing students, most instructors have only one student apiece, as instructors are geared specifically to each student’s ability. Interpreters will be available on the hill to provide assistance during the lessons.
People with rusty or beginner skiing skills are welcome in the program, and at the clinic. These folks can be used in other areas of the program while they improve their skills to the point that they are capable of instructing.
For more information, click on the link below to contact the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program Director.