Waiting for that first snowfall around the beginning of winter is exciting for everyone, but for members of Mason’s Ski and Snowboarding Club it means it is finally time to hit the slopes.
Founded in 2010 by student snowboarders and skiers, the club is expanding and growing.
Last year, most of the team’s trips took small groups to Liberty in Pennsylvania, but the club is planning to travel to even bigger resorts this season.
“We’re planning a big trip to Killington in Vermont over winter break and [another] one over spring break to Mt. Tremblant in Canada,” said president Chris Mullins.
Whether you are just starting to practice on the bunny slope or are the next Shaun White, the club has a spot for you.
Current members of the club include people who have never been to the slopes people who go often.
“This year, we’re really trying to hook up people who are experienced with new snowboarders and skiers, so they can learn faster and don’t have to pay for lessons.”
These winter sports can be expensive, especially with a season starting as early as November and lasting until March. With equipment, a lift ticket and skis or a board, the cost can add up to hundreds of dollars.
Beginners can always find used equipment online or in stores for cheaper prices than constantly renting.
“I’d usually suggest someone to go buy some used stuff. You can get a setup for about 200 bucks. It is kind of hard for college students but it is realistic. It is possible to get into it with not too much money,” Mullins said.
Ken Eng, a special events coordinator and former board member with the D.C. Ski and Snowboard Club, said money and time are the biggest reasons why the older, regional ski clubs lack younger members.
“We’re having a hard time recruiting because students don’t have much money, or do, but then don’t have enough time,” said Eng. “This is not a unique problem for established ski clubs. Every club in the entire country faces the same problem.”
Regional ski clubs organize national and international trips up to a year in advance that cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
“I think if the D.C. Ski Club tried to market for younger people, it wouldn’t be that big of a problem. But right now, I think it would be awkward if you took a group of 22-year-olds snowboarding and they got rowdy. Older members would not appreciate it too well,” Mullins said. “But it’s definitely possible if they market trips specifically or a little separately. It would work out really well.”
The Mason club does a great job of reducing the costly fees associated with snowboarding or skiing.
Going to college nights, teaching new members and giving advice on where to go for equipment are just some of the benefits the club provides.
Traveling as a big group or going through company-run trips, like D.C. Ski Club, helps to lighten the expenses.
Meetings for the club are held on the second Tuesday of every month. Interested skiers and snowboarders can find information about the club on Facebook and by attending meetings.
Club trips to Kings Dominion and the beach allow the group to spend time together off the slopes. Come wintertime, the club will be traveling and hoping mother nature provides them with plenty of snow.
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