Nordic Ninjas
The Nordic Ninjas program acts as an introduction to competitive skiing. Here athletes will learn and develop FUNdamental ski skills through the use of games and engaging activities made to challenge each athlete individually.
Nordic Ninjas is broken down into two groups NN1 and NN2, based on age. However individual workouts and how participants are split within their groups will be based on skill and development determined by coach discretion.
Registration for the 2024-2025 season is CLOSED.
Race Support Registration is CLOSED.
Ages
- U12 (9-11)
Training dates
- 1x/week | Saturday 10:00 am – 12:30 pm
Equipment
- Classic Skis
- Skate Skis
- Classic boots (or combi boots)**
- Skate boots (or combi boots)**
- Classic Poles
- Skate Poles
- Head Lamp
** If buying combi boots only buy one pair for the season, as they are designed for both classic and skate skiing.
Events
- Participation at AYC
- Attended Alberta Cup Race Weekends
- AB Cup 1+2 | Canmore
- AB Cup 3+4 | Calgary
- AB Cup 7+8 | Red Deer
Program Goals
The goal of NN1 is to develop fundamental ski skills within each athlete. Fostering a love for skiing and the ability to ski at a technically appropriate level through the use of games.
Skiers can expect to learn all the basic ski techniques:
- One/Two Skate
- Off-set
- Diagonal Stride
- Double pole
- Herringbone
- Step turns
Skiers in NN1 are encouraged to attend XCBC’s Alberta Youth Championships, as well as near-by AB Cups.
Training starts in November and runs till the end of March assuming good snow conditions.
The estimated cost for NN1 is: $300
Ages
- U14 (12-13)
Training dates
- 2x/week | Wednesday 6:30-8 pm | Saturday 10:00-12:30
Equipment
- Classic Skis, Training skis and rock skis
- Skate Skis, Training skis and rock skis
- Classic boots**
- Skate boots**
- Classic Poles
- Skate Poles
- Head Lamp
** Please avoid the use of combi boots at this level.
Events
- Participation at AYC
- Attending all / most Alberta Cup Race Weekends
- Westerns (optional)
Program Goals
The goal of NN2 is to further the development of fundamental ski skills within participating athletes. Participants will continue to develop a love for skiing while challenging their own abilities. Games act as a learning cornerstone at this level of development.
Skiers can expect to develop all the basic ski techniques, while refining previously developed skills:
- One/Two Skate
- Free Skate
- Off-set
- Diagonal Stride
- Double pole
- Herringbone
- Step turns
- Goal setting
Skiers in NN1 are encouraged to attend XCBC’s Alberta Youth Championships, as well as all available AB Cups.
Training starts in November and runs till the end of March, assuming good snow conditions.
The estimated cost for NN2 is: $600
Head Nordic Coach
NOW HIRING
Role Overview
- Design and deliver training programs for Nordic Ninjas (Track Attack) and Club Racer athletes aged 9–18
- Oversee athlete development across all skill levels
- Mentor assistant coaches and parent volunteers
- Plan and support Alberta Cup race attendance, with potential for select national events based on experience
- Maintain clear communication with athletes, families, and the XCBC Board
- Help foster a strong coaching culture and a healthy, team-focused environment
What We Offer
- A Supportive Coaching Culture – Collaboration, mentorship, and open communication are central to our club.
- Opportunities for Growth – We support continued coach education, mentorship, and leadership development.
- Athlete-Focused Environment – Work with motivated athletes in a setting that emphasizes long-term development and balance.
- Flexible, Seasonal Structure – Programs are built around key training blocks with collaborative planning.
- Access to Incredible Trails and Terrain – Train in a beautiful outdoor setting near the West Bragg Creek trail system.
- A Chance to Make Your Mark – This is a meaningful coaching role where your contributions will directly shape the program and club culture.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement Yearly Training Plans (YTPs) and athlete-specific programming
- Lead weekly training sessions (minimum 3x/week in winter)
- Provide race support including waxing coordination and post-race debriefs
- Collaborate with the club administrator and board on registration, events, and coach training
- Foster a strong team culture and address athlete behavior as needed
- Prepare and manage the annual Nordic program budget and related resources
Position Type: Independent Contractor
Compensation: Market rates – negotiable, commensurate with qualifications
Seasonal hours based on program calendar (May–March)
Race support and travel compensation negotiable based on event scope and availability
Qualifications
- NCCP Community Coach (minimum); L2T Trained or higher preferred
- Valid First Aid & CPR certification
- Familiarity with SafeSport and responsible coaching practices
Ideal Candidate
- Brings experience coaching youth in Nordic skiing—from skill development to racing
- Communicates clearly, leads confidently, and stays organized
- Thrives in a team setting and collaborates well with volunteers, parents, and leadership
- Shows initiative, adapts to changing needs, and stays solutions-focused
- Welcomes feedback and is committed to growth as a coach and leader
- Balances structure and performance with an environment that keeps athletes engaged and motivated
- Shares XCBC’s vision for building a strong, sustainable program and is excited to help take it to the next level
Anticipated Start: May 2025 (Immediate / flexible)
To Apply: Please send your resume and cover letter to: clubpresident@xcbraggcreek.ca
Deadline: Open until filled
We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be
contacted.