A case study examining the historical use of waist tethers and associated training practices in adaptive skiing

Abstract

This case study investigated the historical application of and training practices revolving around waist tethers for students enrolled in Eagle Mount's multiweek ski program at Bridger Bowl in Bozeman, Montana. Historically, Eagle Mount trained all new volunteers to operate waist tethers to support students. Capitalizing on best practices working with adaptive skiers, it was hypothesized that this approach inhibited student autonomy and may not consider the student central to learning to ski. To learn more about this, Eagle Mount's Bridger Bowl Snowsports staff was interviewed, a restructured training model was examined, waist tether volunteers were questioned, and student lessons were observed. It was determined that waist tethers could limit autonomy and discourage a student's least restrictive environment. Yet, there are instances that these tools are appropriate based on the student's needs and to support their goals. Because the historic training model strongly emphasized the operational skills required to safely waist tether a student, it was possible that identifying student goals and crafting a unique progression that supported a student-centered experience may not have been the central message of volunteer training. As such, volunteers may have lacked the tools necessary to encourage an environment that inherently focused on progressions and highlights play and exploration via games and activities that capitalize on student interests. The restructured training environment required for all new volunteers made this the central element of the discussion. It provided volunteers with a toolbox of ideas to support safe and fun progressions based on students' needs and goals. As a result, fewer students currently use waist tethers, greater emphasis is placed on games and activities that engage students, and more time is spent by volunteers supporting student autonomy.