Description:
The Eastern Team Tryout is a rigorous, on-snow interview and selection process for PSIA-AASI Eastern members seeking to represent the region on the Eastern Team in preparation for the 2028 National Team Tryout. Eastern Team members serve as ambassadors for the Learning Connection Model and demonstrate leadership across the people, teaching, and technical skills that define PSIA-AASI’s highest standards.
This multi-discipline event will closely mirror the National Tryout environment. Candidates will participate in both cross-discipline activities—where Adaptive, Alpine, Cross Country, Snowboard, and Telemark candidates may all be present—and discipline-specific sessions designed to highlight individual strengths. Our goal is to identify educators who exhibit exceptional versatility, professionalism, and a strong ability to perform, coach, and inspire across all facets of snowsports education.
Selectors will observe participants throughout a variety of on-snow activities and situational assessments. While this event is not instructional in nature, candidates will have opportunities to learn from each other and receive feedback regarding their performance.
Registered candidates should expect to submit an additional Candidate Packet by no later than March 1, 2026. A link to a form will be emailed to all participants and will require candidates to provide:
- A resume outlining snowsports experience (1-2 pages maximum)
- Professional references
- A two-minute, self-produced video introducing who you are, what you believe the team’s purpose is, how you would contribute to its success, and showcasing your individuality through engaging, authentic delivery.
- A one-minute, self-produced snowsports tip video, ready for social media
- A 500 word writing sample highlighting an aspect of the Learning Connection Model, including a title, description, learning outcomes, and a separate outline suitable for a PSIA-AASI member publication.
- Responses to a pre-tryout questionnaire.
- Additional details about the tryout format, schedule, and logistics will be shared following the registration deadline.
Learning Experiences:
Specific activities will vary depending on the group’s needs and environmental conditions and typically include:
- On-snow skiing/riding evaluations across a range of terrain and tasks
- Teaching and people-skill scenarios observed by selectors
- Situational tasks requiring adaptability, communication, and professional self-awareness
- Group interactions and peer feedback opportunities
- Individual feedback discussions with selectors following the event
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, successful participants will be able to:
- Engage collaboratively and learn through peer interaction and observation in a multi-discipline environment.
- Reflect on feedback to identify personal strengths and growth opportunities aligned with Eastern and National Team expectations.
Prerequisite(s):
Discipline Level III Certified
Recommended Learning Resources:
- PSIA-AASI Discipline-Specific Certification Standards and Performance Guides
- Teaching Snowsports Manual and discipline Technical Manuals
Equipment/Materials Needed:
- Discipline-appropriate equipment in excellent condition, suitable for variable terrain and performance tasks
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