More Than 40,000 Introductions To Board Sports In Quebec This Season, 25% Increase
The Association des stations de ski du Québec (ASSQ) is pleased with significant growth this season, with a 25% increase in the number of introductions to snow sports through its emerging talent programs. In total, more than 40,000 new skiing and snowboarding experiences were offered, confirming the organization's commitment to accessibility and developing the next generation.
This growth was made possible thanks to the support of valuable partners, including Burton, Rossignol, Sports Experts and the Quartier des Spectacles Partnership.
The My First Time program breaks records thanks to its accessibility
Open to ages 5 and up, the My First Time program offers a lesson with a certified instructor and equipment rental for just $29.95. This package is available at more than 40 ski resorts across 13 regions of Quebec. This year, the program alone enabled a total of 9,000 introductory ski and snowboard sessions, an increase of more than 40% over last year's results, which already represented the best season since the program's creation in 2017. To add to the fun, more than 30% of participants took advantage of the second free resort visit included in the package to continue their learning.
Free initiations in primary schools
In order to reach young people from diverse backgrounds, the ASSQ is active through 24 School Service Centers in 14 regions of Quebec. As part of the Iniski and Inisurf at School program, it donates fleets of ski and snowboard equipment to these centers, which are then used in various ways depending on the schools' choices (outings to ski resorts or in the schoolyard). Also in elementary schools, the Snowboard Tour , aimed at 5 to 8 year olds, travels through the regions of Montreal, the Eastern Townships and Quebec City.
An initiation site in an urban environment
The Maneige Experience program is making sure to reach even more people by offering free initiation in an urban setting for children aged 5 to 8. The program was rolled out during Winterlude in Gatineau, at Glissades Gamelin in Montreal, and at two sites dedicated to school groups (Groupe plein air Terrebonne and Centre de plein air de Lévis), offering free entertainment and complete equipment for all.
"We are proud of the work accomplished this season to introduce an impressive number of children and families to snow sports from all walks of life. Our goal is to promote accessibility to these sports and encourage families to make them an activity of choice," emphasizes Yves Juneau, President and CEO of the ASSQ.
About the ASSQ and the industry
The ASSQ has been working for over 40 years to represent and defend the interests of Quebec ski resorts. A non-profit organization, the ASSQ promotes the practice of snow sports, improves the customer experience, and supports the performance of resorts to ensure their sustainability. Thanks to initiatives like the Ski Passe-Partout program to fund the Association's activities, over 40,000 young people each year are introduced to skiing and snowboarding for free, as well as to adopting healthy lifestyle habits.
As the industry adapts to climate change, the ASSQ is expanding its mission by supporting the industry and the public in the evolution of resorts and the range of mountain activities. It is committed to fostering a sustainable skiing environment and supporting its members' adaptation to the new realities of the ski industry.
