Victorian Junior Team / Development Squad

The Victorian Junior Ski Team and Development Squad provide programs and support for approximately 30-40 athletes aged from 14-20 years of age. The aims of the squads are to develop the physiological and psychological skills of junior cross country skiers in a fun and supportive environment, acting as a stepping stone to the Australian Junior Team.

Selection
Athletes are selected onto the team based on results from the Victorian and Australian Junior Championships, the Victorian Interschools and Joey Hoppet events. The main performance criteria is skiing a time under 10 percent behind the fastest Victorian skier in their age class. Selection in the Development Squad is based on participation in a minimum of three of the nominated races.

Program
Training camps are held year-round in various locations including Anglesea, Lake Mountain, Mt Beauty, Falls Creek and Warburton. Camps are conducted on and off snow, utilising training methods such hill bounding, roller skiing, running, mountain biking, skiing specific strength workouts, stretching and recovery methods alongside social and team building activities. The on-snow camp and weekend clinics aim to improve athletes technique development and assist with race specific skills in the freestyle and classic disciplines. Athletes are also educated on race planning, ski preparation and pre and post competition routines, including nutrition.