With a rich history that spans decades (even some of the longest-standing members comment that it was around before their time) Central Alberta Freestyle has built a legacy of passion, dedication, and growth.
We caught up with the club to ask about some of their successes, accomplishments and plans for the 2024-25 season.
What is your mission or philosophy when it comes to skiing and community?
Our ski club is focused on developing well-rounded, passionate, and competitive performance athletes in a supportive and fun training environment – while growing and promoting the sport of freestyle skiing. We share a passion for skiing and for the pursuit of skill development and personal growth. In our community-focused club, we create an inclusive, athlete-focused environment for young athletes to learn and develop.
What type of skiers typically join your club?
Central attracts a wide range of athletes. We encourage any family with young skiers seeking structured training, skill development, and skiing progression to try Freestyle. We have programs geared towards athletes aged 6-18. Any age, any level.
Many high-level athletes join our club under the guidance of our Head Coach and Program Director, Curtis Sinton, an Air 4 coach who helps athletes reach the next level. Several of our athletes have gone on to achieve success at the provincial and national levels.
What regular events or activities does the club organize?
Central Alberta has a strong tradition of hosting top-notch competitions, from Club events to Provincials and Canada Cups! With the incredible support of Canyon Ski Resort, our events are known for their stunning views from the balcony as athletes battle it out on the moguls. This year, in partnership with Freestyle Alberta, we’re thrilled to host Mogul Fest—an exciting competition for both club and provincial athletes! It’s an event you won’t want to miss!
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How does the club support the development of skiing skills?
Central follows the Long Term Athlete Development Model, with a diverse coaching team focused on helping athletes build skills and a love for skiing. Our fun, fast-paced ski days keep athletes engaged and excited to improve in both moguls, park and pipe. As the athletes advance through this model, they become more involved in additional training opportunities, including our feature park and pipe program and mogul-specific training.
How do you engage with the local community for winter sports awareness?
Our club builds and maintains top-tier facilities that cater to both beginners and high-level provincial and national freestyle athletes. We proudly welcome clubs from across the region to train at our venues and host premier events throughout the season.
Memorable moments?
Parents and athletes alike agree—it’s the off-hill experiences that truly make this club feel like home. From action-packed ski camps featuring trampolining, yoga, rock climbing, and frisbee golf, to cozy evenings spent ramping, gathering around a small gas fire, and moms warming feet with kettle water, every moment is unforgettable.
Parent Brian Ostad fondly recalls a trip to Tunnel Mountain Resort, where sneaky parents tracked their kids via the “Find My Friends” app as they rampaged through the resort and enjoyed the epic stacks of pizza.