Some changes could be coming to the Sky Tavern ski area. The area is just a mile away from the Mount Rose Ski Resort and hosts a non-profit volunteer ski and snowboard instruction program. It is gearing up for its 72nd year. Wednesday evening's orientation training for volunteer instructors is just the start of a big year for the program.
“We're going to go over some really basic stuff on orientation, just so you know what's going on,” said Sky Tavern’s Executive Director Bill Henderson. It’s the orientation meeting for new ski instructors for the Sky Tavern Junior Ski Program.
One week from now, an application for a 30-year-lease for their facility will be considered by Reno City Council. If the lease is approved, Sky Tavern will look into upgrades that could create opportunities for the public.
We want to invest in snow making. It's going to allow us to open up earlier. Possibly run more week day programs,” said Sky Tavern board member and ski instructor Greg Batchelder.
Batchelder says that currently the facility is only open weekends, but that may change. “The next thing is lights. Lights go along with that snow making,” said Batchelder.
Afternoon and evening skiing for kids could become a possibility. “We could do a Tuesday through Thursday program after school. Bring the kids up on buses. Let them ski,” said Batchelder.
The Sky Tavern Junior Ski Program is staffed primarily by parents and volunteers who teach the kids how to ski and snowboard. “This isn't like any other group that you do a sport with kids. Where you drop your kids off and you let them play with 3 coaches at soccer. You're part of the process. All the parents have a role up here. They are in the parking lot. They are in the kitchen. They're helping in lift lines. And most importantly they're instructors,” said Henderson.
Weekend lessons are available for adults too. A yearly membership generally costs same as a weekend lift ticket. The experience however is priceless. “If I’m with an instructor you're nervous. You're not going to progress as fast. But when you're with real people and you're with your friends. You're not so afraid to be so vulnerable. And so you progress faster,” said former Sky Tavern ski student Magnolia Kulpin. “We can spend time together and save money along the way,” said parent and future Sky Tavern instructor Ed Marsh.
If you want to join or train to be an instructor, you can contact the organization for details at info@skytavern.com or call 775 323 5125.
