FAQ

What is the BKLYSL?

The mission of the Bill Koch Youth Ski League (BKYSL, or BKL for short) is to introduce young people to the lifelong sport of cross-country skiing with all of its recreational, social, fitness, and competitive opportunities. Our philosophy is that children should have the opportunity to have fun while learning to cross-country ski.

The BKYSL is a cross-country ski program for children from grades K – 8. Joining a BKL means that you as a parent are often on skis or participating in some way. The program is run completely by parent volunteers. BKLs are focused on community and creating a lifelong love for being active outside. Our emphasis is on fun.

When are practices?

Our club will hold practices on Sundays from 1:30pm-3:00pm.

Our Season starts the first non-holiday Sunday in January and runs through the first weekend in March.

Where is Notchview?

Notchview is on Route 9 in Windsor, MA. Windsor is approximately 20 minutes from Pittsfield and 50 minutes from Northampton. It is a beautiful Trustees of the Reservation property with a ski touring center. The Trustees generously host the BKL group. You can get directions by going to the Trustees’ site www.thetrustees.org

How are skiers grouped?

Skiers are grouped by age and ability. Children in the five year old and 6 year old beginners group are Lollipoppers. Children in this age group need a parent/adult skiing with them.

Who provides the instruction?

Our program is entirely run by parent volunteers. Each group has two main coaches with parents assisting during practice. Some of our coaches have had formal training but many have become avid skiers by learning along with their children.

Do I have to attend every practice?

We strongly encourage families to attend practices. This helps with continuity as additional skills are covered in each practice. As with any new activity, consistent practice helps your child progress more quickly. Especially with older beginners attending will help build their confidence so they can enjoy skiing with their peers more quickly.

Does my child have to race?

There is a racing component to our program, but children are under no pressure to race. Since all our children receive encouragement and support, no matter what skill or level, we often find that taking part in relays and races is enjoyed as a fun activity for the children and not a competitive, high-stake event.

What is the cost of the program?

You are responsible for paying two separate fees to join the ski league.

Fee 1) Ski League Registration: The registration fee is paid to the ski league. The fee is $80.00 for one child, $160 for two children, and $240 for three children. (Of this amount, the ski league will pay NENSA $25 per child for NENSA’s fee. Please do not pay your own fee to NENSA as the ski league takes care of this.)

Fee 2) The Trustees of Reservations: Each family must maintain an active membership with The Trustees of Reservations. The family membership is $80.00 per year, and you can get a new membership or renew at Notchview when you first visit. Berkshire Trails members are given a season family ski pass for Notchview.  If you have questions about Trustees membership, contact Jim Caffrey at Notchview (jcaffrey@thetrustees.org). The Trustees membership also entitles you to take advantage of all of the different properties that the Trustees own.

What do I need for equipment and where do I get it?

We recommend that all skiers have proper equipment. An equipment basics sheet is posted on this website. Please look it over. If you still have questions, you can let us know and we will try to answer your questions.

See Equipment Basics

If you need to purchase equipment, we recommend a visit to Berkshire Outfitters in Adams, MA. Steve Blazejewski and his staff at Berkshire Outfitters are very knowledgeable and a great resource. In addition to a wide range of new equipment at competitive prices, Berkshire Outfitters also carries used equipment. Steve is always happy to help people figure out their children’s equipment needs.

Also look for notices of various ski swaps where used equipment is often available. Instant Replay in Pittsfield sells used sports equipment and often has skis.

How will I be expected to participate?

It Takes a Village. Because we are a parent-run, volunteer organization we expect parents to volunteer during the season. We have a variety of jobs that you will have an opportunity to sign up for early in the year. You can sign up for anything from scooping ice cream to volunteering to assist in a group that needs a parent helper. Many jobs require very little commitment or skill; the most important thing is that we all volunteer for something. You’ll also find it’s a fun way to meet other parents in the club.