Deaf & Hard of Hearing Program

The Minnesota Ski Council is involved in teaching the sport of skiing to deaf & hard of hearing people. In addition to teaching skiing, the DEAF & HARD OF HEARING PROGRAM also encourages involvement in other winter sports by the deaf & hard of hearing.

The DEAF & HARD OF HEARING PROGRAM takes place at Hyland Hills Ski Area in Bloomington. Equipment & lift tickets are provided for students at minimal cost, and lift tickets are free for qualified instructors who have completed the mandatory training clinic. The people involved in this program donate their time for teaching, and other assistance as is needed. (Non-MSC people are also welcome.) Just one of the many rewards for program participants are the smiles of the students, as they discover that they too can enjoy the sport of skiing.

The training program for new participants consists of a two-day clinic at a cost to the trainee of $40, which is rebated by the MSC upon completion of the teaching assignment. This training is provided by the Hyland Hills Ski School. Participants are given step-by-step methods in the art of teaching people to ski. In addition, this clinic substantially develops skiing skills. Anyone with intermediate or better ability can qualify as an instructor.

When working with the deaf & hard of hearing students, most instructors have only one student apiece, as instructors are geared specifically to each student's ability.

People with rusty or beginner skiing skills are welcome in the program, and at the clinic. These people can be used in other areas of the program while they improve their skills to the point that they are comfortable with instructing.

For more information, contact the Deaf & Hard of Hearing Director: