Waterville Valley, New Hampshire - June 25th, 2024

On the weekend of June 23 & 24th, WVBBTS (Waterville Valley Black & Blue Trail Smashers, home of Waterville Valley Academy, hosted an exhilarating all-girls Freeski, Freestyle, & Snowboard camp, marking a significant stride in fostering talent and camaraderie among young female athletes in the sport.

Under the mentorship of a stellar lineup of coaches including Annalisa Drew(2014 Sochi Olympian), Devin Logan (Olympic Silver Medalist), Grace Henderson (X-Games Podium Athlete and US Ski Team athlete of 8 Years), and Julia Krass (2014 Sochi Olympian), participants experienced a transformative two-day camp filled with skill-building, inspiration, and fun. Each of these esteemed coaches once donned the Waterville Valley Academy/BBTS uniform, underscoring their deep connection and commitment to nurturing the next generation of female skiers. 

The camp, held against the picturesque backdrop of Waterville Valley New Hampshire, featured a dynamic program designed to cater to girls of all ages and skill levels. From fearless 7-year-olds taking their first leaps into freestyle skiing to daring teenagers honing their aerial techniques, the camp provided a supportive environment for every participant to push their limits and expand their horizons.

“It's amazing to see all these girls out here encouraging themselves and each other,” said Grace Henderson a current US Ski Team Member and WVA Alumnae. 

Activities throughout the weekend included sessions in tumbling and trampoline work, where athletes refined their aerial awareness and acrobatic skills in a safe environment. Sessions on the Bag Jump and in the Rail Garden offered practical application of these skills, allowing participants to progress confidently under the guidance of experienced coaches.

The parent of one of the athletes Allison Memmelaar said of the camp, “It was great having the exceptional coaches and all the girls pushing each other to achieve new tricks. I know she finally got her first 360!” 

The sense of community and empowerment was palpable as friendships formed and accomplishments were celebrated. Participants left the camp with renewed confidence, inspired by the example set by their coaches who have blazed trails in the sport.

As WVBBTS continues to champion diversity and inclusivity in winter sports, the success of the all-girls Freestyle Skiing camp underscores the organization's commitment to providing opportunities for female athletes to thrive and excel.