Winter is already on the mind, and the Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club is ready to get the local youth signed up for this season’s frozen fun.

Registration is already underway for the competitive athletes, but those looking for recreational opportunities can begin signing up for the club’s Aspen Supports Kids (ASK) programming this Sunday, Aug. 24, at 5 p.m.

“The energy and excitement around ASK’s registration each year is palpable,” ASK Program Director Meredith Elwell said via a press release. “The hustle to secure winter ski and snowboard plans for our youth is an annual tradition in our valley. ASK is a foundational part of our mountain communities, ensuring access to the slopes for children and fueling our valley’s deep-rooted love of mountain sports.” 

ASK serves as the starting block and foundation for all AVSC programs. Athletes have the opportunity to build their skills and passion for skiing and snowboarding in an affordable group lesson with their local peers.

ASK programs serve kids from preschool through 12th grade in a series of either three-, six-, seven-, eight-, or 12-day programs in 13 categories. ASK lessons are taught on all four Aspen Snowmass mountains by Aspen Ski & Snowboard School pros.

AVSC offers a scholarship program that families can apply for through Oct. 1. Last year, nearly 500 participants received more than $300,000 in scholarship assistance. Approximately 400 additional youth received winter gear donated by sponsors Gorsuch and Four Mountain Sports.

This year, both online (highly recommended) and in-person registration options are available, with in-person locations in Aspen (AVSC Clubhouse at 300 AVSC Drive, 5-7 p.m.) and Willits (310 Market Street, First Floor Regus Building, Basalt, 5-8 p.m.). Spanish-speaking support is available at the Willits location.

Many programs sell out within the first 24 hours, so AVSC recommends that families peruse the ASK program options on the AVSC website (teamavsc.org) and reach out with questions to Elwell at melwell@teamavsc.org or (970) 205-5161 in advance.

Also available for registration at this time are the Bill Koch Youth Ski League programs for ages 5-10 with Aspen and Carbondale locations, plus a new Basalt location. This program focuses on fostering a love for Nordic skiing and provides a foundation for Nordic classic skiing. AVSC competitive team programs are still open for registration, although the scholarship and early pricing windows closed on Aug. 1.