USA Ski Jumping Recruiting Program
USA Ski Jumping Physical Education Recruiting Program
We have many talented and dedicated athletes in our sport. However, it is a major objective of USA Ski Jumping to continually grow the sport from the bottom up. This means recruiting more athletes and introducing the sports to more youth. Particularly youth who have never been exposed to Ski Jumping.
The major recruiting effort is directed at elementary schools, where it’s possible to reach 1st through 6th-grade students in a Physical Education setting. Below is a guide with step-by-step instructions for carrying out our recruitment program.
P.E. Recruiting Overview
When interacting with schools, describe this as a “Ski Jumping Education Program.” It is best to carry this out just before a large competition or before opportunities to enroll in a Ski Jumping Program. Youth need immediate gratification when they’re excited to try a new sport. If a competition is being held or a camp/program is beginning, you have the ability to say to kids “Come on out tomorrow/next week” (or whenever it may be).
Step 1
Contact the head Physical Education teacher and describe the opportunity to run a very fun and educational program in their P.E. classes. Explain that you realize this is short notice and that they surely have lessons planned for the entire year. Although, you were just presented with this opportunity – that you are immediately forwarding to them. Download the “PE.Recruiting.Program” and email it to the P.E. teacher.
Step 2
Ask if they have any of the equipment in the attached Program.
Step 3
Quickly order any equipment that they don’t have. The Woggler, for example, could be ordered if desired.
Step 4
Recruit an athlete and or coach from your local club to help with the recruitment.
Step 5
Edit or create a flyer with any opportunities available for students. Save it as a PDF and email it to the P.E. teacher to forward to school administration for approval (explain that you are a non-profit organization). Ask if the school will give one to each student to take home. If yes, print one for each student and give it to the school administration to distribute.
The materials here have been adapted from a program designed by Mike Holland two-time Olympian and former world distance record holder. Thank you Mike!
For a Word Document of the P.E. Recruiting Program, please email Jed Hinkley at jed@usanordic.org.
Digital Learning Physical Education Recruiting Program
USA Ski Jumping has created a tool for educators, and clubs alike, to use for recruiting and learning purposes. While the materials were created with distance learning in mind, it certainly can be used for in-person learning as well.
This resource is geared towards elementary students, grades 1st-6th. However, it could be adapted for younger or older students. The lesson plan and video overview were created with flexibility and classroom customization in mind.
Materials
- Introduction letter for whoever will be using the video and education materials. This letter can be personalized to the individual and provide references to their local club(s). Please reach out to Karin Bauer at info@usanordic.org for a customized letter!
- Lesson Plan
- Video Outline
- List of Clubs and Contacts
If you have further questions, please reach out to Karin Bauer at info@usanordic.org.
