Families in Summit and Wasatch counties have until Nov. 30 to register students for Youth Sports Alliance's winter after-school programs. Fees will increase Nov. 21.
The programs introduce children to winter activities including skiing, snowboarding, ski jumping, ice skating, hockey and speed skating. Registration prices range from $50 to $240, depending on the activity, according to KPCW's Oct. 19 interview with Youth Sports Alliance representatives.
YSA's programs are designed for students with different experience levels. Beginners can learn to ski or snowboard, while other options provide opportunities to develop skills at Utah Olympic Park and Woodward Park City.
Heather Sims, YSA's programs director, told KPCW the winter lineup also includes tubing and several ice sports.
The nonprofit's Get Out & Play program offers supervised activities on school early-release days. Fees generally cover instruction and lift tickets when needed, along with transportation from schools to participating venues for most programs.
Financial assistance available
Families earning up to $120,000 annually may qualify for financial assistance.
YSA's published guidelines distinguish between full scholarships for lower-income households and partial scholarships for families with higher incomes within the eligibility range. Families should review the requirements for the specific activity before registering.
KPCW reported that students receiving free or reduced-price school lunches can participate for $10 per week and may qualify for equipment assistance.
More than 600 students received full scholarships last year, including more than 300 in skiing and snowboarding programs, according to the station's interview.
Parents and guardians can find program listings and scholarship information on the Youth Sports Alliance website.
Support for competitive athletes
In addition to its introductory programs, YSA provides financial support for athletes training with seven partner clubs through its Stein Eriksen Dare to Dream scholarships.
The scholarship program helps eligible athletes pay expenses associated with participating in competitive sports. Its partner organizations include local skiing, skating, hockey, bobsled, skeleton and luge programs.
YSA representatives told KPCW that more than $200,000 in Dare to Dream scholarships was awarded in September.
Families interested in winter after-school programs should register before Nov. 21 to avoid the scheduled price increase. Registration closes Nov. 30.
