Silver Star Mountain Resort

Norman Kreutz

Level: CSIA Level 4, CSCF Level 3, Mountain Guide Level 1, Level 4 Examiner

Bio:
With 30 years of coaching and teaching experience Silver Star’s Director of Skiing, Norman Kreutz, has a long list of credentials. His most notable is being involved as either coach or skier in no less than four Interski teams. Norm has been, and still is, the mentor to all in the ski instruction industry in Canada; incredibly well respected for his skiing and teaching ability.

Favourite run: Gypsy Queen
Best moment on skis: Skiing in a Demonstration with Cam Watson during Interski 87. It was like we were attached by a string. Completing 49 runs in 2 hours of skiing at the Mountain Smoker, Broken River, New Zealand. World Powder Eight Championships skiing with my bud Steve Smart.
Favourite teaching moment: Getting a 67-year-old lady who had never been on snow before to experience the thrill of turning, Broken River, New Zealand 1982. Being taught by the king of teaching Martin Olson, Level 2 course 1978, Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Alison Crick

Level: CSIA Level 2

Bio:
Alison is Silver Star's Snowsports School Manager. Alison has worked for Silver Star for 13 years, her role over the years has included teaching, front line sales agent, Public School Co-ordinator and finally the Manager’s role which she has held for 5 years.

Alison is very proud of the Snowsports School and our high caliber of instructors from all over the world.

Janice Morgan

Level: CSIA Level 4

Bio:
The only woman in Western Canada named to the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance Interski team 2003 and level 4 course conductor group, Janice is renowned for her keen technical knowledge and enthusiasm while teaching. She definitely knows how to have fun while learning.

Favourite run: Chute 5 for the bumps and the gully at the bottom.
Best moment on skis: Skiing to Italy for lunch with Guy and Steve in 80 cm of fresh powder and blue skies.
Favourite teaching moment: When I see smiles during a lesson.

Jared Hetherington

Level: CSIA Level 4, Level 1 course conductor, CSCF Level 2 & CASI Level 1

Bio:
Born in Paris, France, Jared learned to ski the French Alps on Ski vacations with his family. When he moved to Western Canada at age 8, skiing most weekends in the winter was a natural progression. Now starting his 9th year of full time teaching/coaching (3 years in Banff area and 5 years at Silver Star Mountain), his passion for the sport and his love of sharing it with others, is what drives him to make every lesson a memorable one. Whether it's your first time skiing, or your ready to challenge the double blacks, ask for Jared!

Robyn Beaudry

Level: CSIA Level 4, CSCF Level 2, Level 2 Course Conductor

Bio:
With 13 years of teaching experience, Robyn’s goal is to pass on confidence, knowledge and fun to heighten the mountain experience. She is a level 4 CSIA, level 2 CSCF, level 2 course conductor. Favourite run: Where's Bob, because there are so many different lines! Best moment on skis: Every fresh powder morning, where I’m smiling from every part of my body. Favorite teaching moment: When I took someone who was so scared of skiing she was crying, to wanting skiing to be a part of her life for ever.

Guy Paulsen

Level: CSIA Level 4, CSIA Level 4 Course Examiner, CASI Level 1, CANSI Level 1 XC, CSCF Level 2, CSGA Level

Bio:
Guy Paulsen has been a member of the Silver Star Ski School for over 25 years and has represented both Silver Star Mountain Resort and the Canadian Ski Instructor’s Alliance nationally and internationally at numerous ski related events and competitions. “Winter is such a great time of the year and being able to share my experience and passion for all types of skiing is a real pleasure. I look forward to our next ski together………”

Rodger Poole

Level: CSIA 4, CANSI 3, CSCF 2, CSIA Level 1 Course Conductor, NCCP Nordic L2T, APSI Tele

Bio:
Rodger has been teaching skiing for the past ten years, five of which were at Silver Star. He has come to call Silver Star home because it provides fantastic alpine skiing and world class cross country. Having skied Nordic all his life, he was introduced to Alpine skiing in 1999 and has devoted his winters to the sport ever since. He loves improving his own ability and enjoys sharing that drive for improvement with others. He is a Level 4 alpine instructor, Level 3 nordic instructor, Level 2 alpine coach, Level 2 Nordic coach, Level 1 Telemark instructor, and Level 1 Alpine course conductor. His favourite skiing moment: ripping down Quicksilver with a foot of fresh snow. His favourite teaching moment: seeing his client, and friend, Mel, start to relax and feel in control while she was skiing.

Keith Elliason

Level: CSIA Level 4, CSCF Level 2, Level 1 Course Conductor, Training for the level 4 and CSCF 3

Bio:
Putting out first ski film this year, will be filmed at the newly opened mt. Revelstoke as well as cat skiing on mt Cartier.
Favourite Run: Doog Nog because I dont think I can count the number of kickers of the side walls, plus the bumps are great.
Favourite thing to do on skis: Skiing as fast as I possibly can, catching air is right up there as well.
Sponsor: Nordica
Favourite Moment on Skis: Being able to test all the new skis for the next year with Ski Canada

Stephen Feedham

Level: CSIA Level 3, CSCF Level 2, CADS Level 1, Level 1 Course Conductor

Bio:
Stephen has twenty-five plus years of teaching, starting at Silver Star. He has taught in other areas in Canada, New Zealand and Japan. He has had the great enjoyment of running four ski schools of his own over the years and is very happy to be back at Silver Star, his favourite teaching area. Favorite Moment on skis: The start of my first ski season at Temple Basin N.Z. During the week before the official hill opening, I had sunshine and fresh powder every day for five days all to myself....I was the only skier on the mountain....I had found skiing heaven! Favorite Runs: Downhill Basin, Temple Basin N.Z., Sunny Ridge, Silver Star. Favourite Teaching Moment: Teaching a lady from South Africa with severe cerebral palsy to ski and watching her achieve a goal she had only dreamed of.

Ewen Cameron

Level: CASI Level 3, Freestyle

Bio:
Ewen has been teaching at Silver Star for the past six years. He has also taught at Whistler and done 3 seasons down under, including one in NZ and two at Mt. Buller in Australia. He started snowboarding during the '97/'98 season back in Scotland and has been absolutely hooked ever since! Ewen is a Level three instructor, a certified freestyle coach, and also a big Oilers fan! Favourite run: Moonbeam and the awesome terrain park! Best moment on a board: Any one of the many "pow" days anywhere on the mountain as long as it is with my friends! Favourite teaching moment: Seeing a big cheesy grin on students faces when they start having fun on their boards!

Hans Gut

Level: CSIA Level 3

Bio:
Hans was born in Zurich, Switzerland. He started skiing with his parents at the age of 5 and got hooked. He has worked as a part time ski instructor in a government sport program, where he also got his certifications: level 1, 2 and 3. Hans joined the Zurich Ski club and worked on his racing technique. Downhill is his favourite and still is today. The “Over the hill downhill” race at Silver Star is one of his highlights in every ski season. Working for the Silver Star Snowsport School since 1999, he enjoys "our" mountain very much. It gives Hans great pleasure to ski with his guests on a daily basis. He would not want to trade this for anything in this world. He enjoys Far Out with his novice skiers as much as Chute Five with his expert clients; the two are his favourite runs on Silver Star Mountain. Hans also loves the Big Dipper for high speed carving and the untracked runs on the backside for powder skiing!

George Young

Level: CSIA Level 3, CSCF Level 2, CANSI Level 1 XC & CANSI Level 1 Tele instructor, Level 1 Course Conduct

Bio:
George has skied throughout Eastern and Western North America, and spent four years in the late 60's sampling the best that Europe has to offer. Teaching skiing is obviously an addiction as he has not missed a season since the early 60's. George is a CSIA III, CSCF II, CANSI I XC and CANSI I Tele instructor and has promised himself to leave snowboarding until his next life! Favourite run: The trees on skiers left of Big Dipper and Kirkenheimer - both full of surprises! Best moment on skiis: Skiing under the Matterhorn. Watching my 10 year old son ski the trees on New Years day with only his head and shoulders showing above the snow! Favourite teaching moment: The beginners smile after their first set of linked turns. The experienced skier at the bottom of their first double black saying "Is it all right if we do that one again?"

Glen McPherson

Level: CSIA Level 3, Level 1 Course Conductor, CSCF Level 1, Nordic instructor

Bio:
Glen has lived in the Okanagan all his life and has taught skiing at Silver Star for most of it. Skiing and teaching are both pretty dear to Glen. "Some of my most memorable experiences have been teaching nervous clients how to turn and smile at the same time. Teaching my first level 1 ski instructor's course was a real thrill. Whether I am chasing my peers or my wife through the bumps in Putnam or helping a client make those first parallel turns, it's all fun."

Eamon Doherty

Level: CSIA Level 3 & CSCF Level 2

Bio:
Eamon enjoys working with all levels of skiers male or female, from first timers to those who like to be challenged with bumps, powder and other knarly stuff. His goal with clients is to have a good time, ski lots and offer tips for improvement

Dave Robb

Level: CSIA Level 3, CSCF 2, CASI Level 1, CASI COACH 1

Bio:
With over 30 years instructing and race coach experience, Dave brings a high level of enthusiasm, patience and knowledge to his daily ski lessons. Having taught small children including his own 2 girls, teenage demons, timid adults and black diamond hot shots, he has all the right credentials to make your lesson enjoyable and rewarding. Favourite Run: Any of our groomed runs that have a fresh dust of light powder. Best moment on skis: The time when a client skis a blue or black run for the first time. Favourite Teaching moment: Teaching a senior lady from England who was recovering from cancer to ski Far Out when her real reason for coming to Silver Star was to bring her nephew and just let him ski.

Will Childs

Level: CSIA Level 2, CSCF Level 1

Bio:
Will has been skiing as an instructor at Silver Star since 2005. He began his skiing career at the age of 11, skiing in Scotland on a school trip. Since then he has skied mostly in the Alps and the US/Canada. An avid skier, Will shares his passion with those that he teaches. "Skiing isn't about technique, it's about the whole mountain experience, from first tracks early in the morning, to the one or two turns that feel just right, through to a well deserved beverage in Long Johns after hours. It's all about fun and the individual sense of achievement at the end of the day." Favourite run: Spirit Bowl, because it's one of the quitest places on the mountain. Best moment on skis: Heli-skiing, after the excitement and bravado of the day, standing at the top of a mountain waiting to complete our last run of the day. The sun was setting. The group just looked at each other and nodded and smiled in silence, we stood there for a good 10 minutes not saying a word it was as close to a religious experience as I could ever imaginge. Favourite teaching moment: "Skiing with a little boy who at the beginning of the lesson wouldn't stop crying. At the end of the lesson we couldn't stop giggling!"

Mick Glossop

Level: CSIA Level 3 & CSCF Level 1

Bio:
Mick has taught at Silver Star Mountain Resort since 2002. He has mainly taught adults and enjoys teaching all levels of skiers. He has also taught at Charlotte Pass Village Resort in Australia since 2002 and is the current Ski School Director there. Mick has skied in many areas throughout Canada, Europe and Australia for the last 25 years. His interests besides skiing are kayaking and surfing; which he has done since he was a boy. His favourite run at Silver Star is Kirkenheimer - especially after a fresh snowfall. His favourite skiing moment was in Chamonix, France, skiing the Argentierre Glacier. Also, gaining his Level 3 on Australia Day with son, Luke. His favourite ski teaching moment is teaching any person to do their first turn. (Silver Star Ski Pro of the year 2005/06)

Tim Clarke

Level: CSIA Level 3, CSCF Level 2

Bio:
Tim has been teaching skiing since 1990. He loves to create a safe, fun filled environment in which to share one of his favourite activities-skiing. His goal is to pass on his enthusiasm for skiing to every client that comes his way. Favourite run: Kirkenheimer, because it is one long, natural half pipe. Best moment on skis: Tree skiing at Red Mountain after a big dump of snow. Favourite teaching moment: Taking clients on a Black Diamond Clinic and seeing huge smiles appear as they fall in love with deep, deep powder.

John Mundell

Level: CSIA Level 3 & CSCF Level 2

Bio:
Four seasons teaching at Silver Star. 3rd generation funeral director avid golfer off-season residence Orillia, ON father of 3 level III ski instructor and CSCF I for 9 years at Mt. St. Louis, Moonstone

Other interests include swimming, biking, hockey, music
Favourite runs: Bon Diablo/High Lead
Favourite teaching moments: watching the look of fear change to smiles of accomplishment on the faces of the timid.
Favourite ski moment: "my virgin encounter as an eastern skier with western powder at Silver Star - yahoo!"

Rachel Wooley

Level: CSIA Level 3 & CSCF Level 1

Bio:
Rachel’s lessons are about having fun and building the knowledge and skills to enjoy everything Silver Star has to offer.

Favorite runs: "Glade Runner, there is always good snow and fun to be had in the trees, and Spirit Bowl for its atmosphere and views."
Best moment on skis: "The very first time I put them on as a total beginner."
Favorite teaching moment: "Seeing fear replaced by an enormous smile."

Angus Wooley

Level: CSIA Level 3, CSCF 2

Bio:
"Having discovered Silver Star 10 years ago on holiday I have been coming here ever since. It is still the best all round ski holiday destination I have ever found. Despite working 7 months a year as a consultant to the offshore oil industry, I now consider ski instruction as my 'real' job as well as my passion."

Favourite Runs: Far Out to BX Express & Kirkenhiemer.
Best moment on skis: Finally getting to grips with real powder on first visit to Silver Star after floundering to the ski school for help.
Favourite teaching moment: Seeing people change from "I can't do that" to "I did it".

Justin Starling

Level: PSIA Level 2 Alpine (USA), APSI Entry Level Coaching (Australia)

Bio:
Justin loves skiing, and has worked as a ski instructor and development race coach all over the world.

He has spent 6 Seasons at Snowshoe Mountain, USA; 2 Seasons at Thredbo, Australia; 1 Season at Mt Ruapehu, NZ; and this will be his second season at Silver Star. He loves teaching children of all ages and abilities. Justin’s favourite teaching moment remains working as a ski team coach at Snowshoe, where he was able to guide, and watch the children grow and improve over 3 seasons.

Justin is currently studying to be an elementary school teacher, and has completed a Business degree; with a masters in Finance and Accounting.

Simon Marks

Level: CSIA level 3

Bio:
An avid skier for most of his life. Simon spent many years skiing resorts in Europe and North America before making his home at Silver Star. A lawyer by profession (he is a practising Senior Counsel at the Victorian Bar in Australia). Simon has 3 young children who are also avid skiers. He is a lover of outdoor activities including running, bush-walking and tennis, but his passion is snow skiing.

Favourite run: Bon Diablo "...steep and long - there are not many better fall-lines in North America".
Favourtie skiing moment: "...skiing first tracks with Norman Kreutz on Gypsy Queen in a foot of fresh powder on a cold January morning in 2005 and trying to stay in his tracks."
Favourite teaching moment: "...being given a letter by the Ski School sent from a family who I had taught during their vacation in Silver Star which suggested that their skiing instruction had really made their holiday."

Luke Glossop

Level: CSIA Level 3, Level 2 CSCF, CSIA Level 1 Course Conductor, Level 1 Race Official

Bio:
Skiing since he was 3, Luke has taught all ages and levels and is currently the Assistant Ski School Director at Charolotte Pass, Australia. He is a Level 3 CISA , Level 2 CSCF, CSIA Level 1 Course Conductor, Level 1 Race Official and is currently training for the level 4 CSIA and Level 3 CSCF. As well as working for the Silver Star Snowsport School, he works with Vernon Ski Club as a race coach. Luke's best moment on skis: Recorded the fastest speed on the mountain, skiing at 107km and qualifying first in the downhill race. Favorite Run: Chute 5. Favorite teaching moment: Seeing the smile on someones face when they learn to ski for the first time.

Mary Ellen "Mellen" Junkins

Level: CASI Level 3, CASI Level 4 Freeride, Freestyle & Race Coach Certifications, Evaluator, AASI Level 3

Bio:
With 15 seasons of teaching experience, Mellen began snowboarding and teaching at a small family resort in Quebec. She then continued to teach at a private hill in southern Ontario while completing university. After moving westward to beautiful Banff, Canada, Mellen chose snowboard instructing as a full-time career; chasing winter to the southern hemisphere in the snowfields of Australia. At Mt Buller, Mellen coached competitive young snowboarders for 5 seasons. For 3 winters, Mellen has taught in luxurious Vail, Colorado, USA; which included 6 weeks on the powder-covered volcanoes of Japan as a private instructor fro three families. Mellen is thrilled to be returning to her second season at Silver Star this winter!

Bob Fleming

Level: CSIA 2

Bio:
Bob has worked at Silver Star since 1993/94 mainly as a videographer doing contract work for the Resort and for private clients. He still does a little bit of video, but for the last 2 seasons he has been ski instructing for Star Kids. He loves to ski and is looking forward to another fantastic season at Silver Star.

Paul Cooper

Level: CASI 1

Bio:
Newly qualified for 2007/8 season. Paul is looking forward to a fantastic season at Silver Star. Former accountant and city slicker, Paul has found his roots and his soul in the mountains of BC. When not skiing Paul splits his time between mountain biking in the French Alps and the English Chiltern hills.

Best moment on skis: A blue bird day with 2 friends and no lift line

Carolyn Glossop

Level: CSIA Level 2

Bio:
Caroyn has taught at Silver Star Resort since 2002 in the Adult SnowSports School, and has also taught at Charlotte Pass Village in Australia for many years. Carolyn has skied in Europe and throughout Canada, but loves the friendly village atmosphere and great runs at Silver Star. Favourite skiing moment: Skiing chest deep light powder for the first time, in Courmeyeur, Italy. Favourite runs: Zypper and Little Dipper in the powder. Favourite teaching moment: "I enjoy all aspects of ski teaching, but I particularly love to build confidence with apprehensive skiers. To see people improving, having fun and enjoying their skiing, is a real thrill for me." When not teaching skiing, Carolyn lives at the beach and loves to kayak, surf and cycle.

Holly Wright

Level: NZSIA Level 2

Bio:
Holly started skiing at the age of 5 and has grown up skiing in France. She has spent the previous summer months skiing in Queenstown; obtaining her NZSIA Level 2 Qualification and can't wait for her first skiing and teaching experience at Silver Star to begin! Her best moment on snow was heli-skiing; having fresh tracks and powder - heaven!

Christy Taylor

Level: CSIA Level 2, CANSI Level 2 XC, CANSI Level 1 Telemark

Bio:
This will be Christy's 5th season at Silver Star, after taking one year off to travel and teach a ski season at Thredbo Ski Resort in Australia. She has been skiing since the age of 2 in the Canadian Rockies and is excited to return to Silver Star for another memorable season. Since she can ski all three styles of skiing, she is known as a 'triple threat'.

She loves the outdoors and in the summers you can find her traveling or sea kayak guiding in Northern Vancouver Island. Her favorite teaching moments are when she can see the confidence building through her clients' smiles, body language and the constant laughing and yahoos coming down the hill. Her favorite runs are Kirkenheimer, Where's Bob and Freefall because of the constant challenge of changing terrain and Kirkenheimer, just rocks in the powder!

Roland Searle

Level: CSIA Level 3, CSCF Level 1, CASI Level 1

Bio:
Roland was born in England, and grew up skiing two weeks of most years in the Austrian Alps. Once he turned 18 he decided to turn his passion into his career and took his level 1 course. This was shortly followed by levels 2 and 3 qualifications. Roland has taught throughout the world however this is his second season at Silver Star. He is very excited about the prospect of teaching in such a well known resort. Roland’s best moment on skis was at Treble Cone NZ, in 2008 when he was skiing with Steve Smart and JF Beaulieu. The best experience of his life was skiing through the soft bumps in glorious sunshine on his level 3 exam, knowing that the entire lift is watching and hoping that he can keep the turns going. Roland’s favourite run at Silver Star is the Milky Way. “It’s always perfectly groomed and has a great steep pitch to it, perfect for carving down early in the morning”. Roland’s favorite teaching moment was teaching a 3 year old boy with special needs, the child's joy of skiing for the first time, and seeing the smile on his face when he made his first ever turn on snow.

Paul Cooper

Level: CSIA level 2, CANSI level 1

Bio:
Paul started skiing in 2001, and shortly after decided to change careers from accounting to Ski instructing. This is his second season at Silver Star and he is the supervisor at Star Kids this year. Paul is also a keen mountain biker in the summer time. Paul's favorite run is a groomed Big Dipper or Sunny Glades on a powder day!

Tommy Bazley

Level: CSIA 3, CASI 2, CSCF 2

Bio:
Tommy grew up in England, but he started skiing in Canada at the age of 10. Ever since then it was his dream to become an Instructor. That dream came true four years ago and since then Tommy has been teaching in both Chile and Canada. When Tommy is not teaching he can be found out on the mountain skiing the bumps on Silver Star’s backside.

Sam O'Reilly

Level: CASI 2

Bio:
Sam started snowboarding in 2004 in Chaminox, France and has been hooked ever since. Sam has spent the past three seasons in Canada, (one season in Fernie and two here at Silver Star). Sam’s favourite run at Silver Star is pipeline on a powder day or Whiskey Jack when it is perfectly groomed. Sam likes to ride fast and also enjoys tree lined powder.

Fran Posselt

Level: CSIA Level 2

Bio:
Fran started skiing when she was 4 years old in Chile. After three years teaching back to back seasons between Canada and Chile, she is back at Silver Star for her 7th winter teaching the sport that she loves. Her favorite teaching moments: Seeing my students smiling and enjoying skiing. Favorite run: Attridge Face and Christmas Bowl.

Andi Fancy

Level: CSIA Level 3, CASI Level 2, CSCF Level 1

Bio:
Andi has taught at Silver Star in both the Adult Snowsports School and at Star Kids since 2002. Andi grew up in New Zealand and always loved mountains and skiing. She has since developed a love of all Snowsports and has spent the past three years racing cross country skiing throughout the world. Andi believes that her role is to help foster and develop a lifelong passion for Snowsports through fun and exploration whether it’s skiing through the glades, down the bumps or the first run down Far Out. Andi’s favourite moment skiing is any powder day skiing with a good posse of friends. Her favourite teaching moment is at the end of a run when no one can wipe the smile off of their faces.

Dan Cox

Level: CSIA Level 2

Bio:
Dan put his first pair of rental skis on at the tender age of 5 and very soon after, became a lover of both the sport and the beautiful scenery in which it takes place. Having been fortunate enough to ski in the French Alps, Sweden and Canada over the years, he has realized that there are few greater activities that this world has to offer. Coming directly from Surrey, England, he looks forward to leaving the often snow-less British winter behind and getting onto the fresh powder that Silver Star has to offer. This will be Dan’s first full season at Silver Star and he can’t wait to get going. He has yet to choose an absolute favorite run here, but he can never say no to Whiskey Jack or Spruce Meadows; where you can weave in and out of the trees all day long and always discover a fresh path.

Guy Dale

Level: CSIA 3, CSCF Level 2

Bio:
Guy is from England, UK, has always had a passion for skiing and has been skiing since the age of four. Guy has skied all over Europe and North America. Guy's favourite part of skiing is the freedom you have in freshly fallen powder

Dominique Oshanek

Level: CASI 2

Bio:
Dom hails from right here in Vernon, BC. He has been riding Silver Star for about 7 years now. This is his 4th season at Star Kids, and his third as an instructor.

When he's not teaching the youngsters how to shred, you can find him running park laps for most of the day, or on a powder day, out finding a pow-stash in the trees.

Jo Rudge

Level: CSIA Level2, CSCF Level1, CADS Level 1

Bio:
Jo learned how to ski in the Austrian Alps and has been an instructor for the past 6 years. She has worked at Nakiska, home to Canada's 1988 winter Olympics for 4 years, and also a season at Coronet Peak/Remarkables in Queenstown, New Zealand. This is Jo’s second winter at Silver Star. Jo's favourite moment on skis: Teaching the British army to ski at Sunshine.

James Sutherland

Level: CSIA Level 3

Bio:
James spent the summer Scuba Diving up in the Orkney Islands, north of Scotland and now he will be returning to Silver Star for his 3rd season. After successfully completing his level 3 exam at the end of last year, he looks forward to the new challenges that the new season will present. James’ favourite run would have to be “Where’s Bob” on the backside and trees around “Bib’s Bumps” on the front side on a powder day. “Just Dandy” is a cracking run when it is freshly groomed as well. James’ favourite teaching moment is every time he returns from a lesson and everyone is smiling from head to toe, and has learned how to deal with the variety of different terrain that Silver Star has to offer. James can’t wait to return to Silver Star and meet new and old friends and students.

Kate Santacaterina

Level: CASI Level 1

Bio:
Kate first took to a snowboard on holiday, in France, but it wasn’t until moving to Canada that she really began to appreciate what a great sport it is. Having obtained her CASI Level 1 at Mount Washington on Vancouver Island last year, Kate will be taking a break from working full-time in day care centers and will begin her first season instructing. She is very excited about teaching snowboarding and is looking forward to a great season with Silver Star.

Thomas Daukes

Level: CSIA Level 3, CSIA Level 1 Park & Pipe

Bio:
Direct from London, England, 23 year old Thomas became addicted to the mountains at an early age. He started skiing at age 5 and snowboarding at age 13. Thomas has skied mostly in the French Alps whilst growing up and then received all of his qualifications at Fernie, BC at age 21. This is Tom's second season at the Star Kids Centre at Silver Star and he is looking forward to another fun filled season.

Madeleine Mackway-Jones

Level: NZSIA Level 1

Bio:
Madeleine was born in New Zealand and started skiing when she was 4 years old. Her passion for skiing quickly developed and she decided to start ski racing. At the age of 17 she decided she wanted to, instead, become a ski instructor and started to train with the rookie academy at Treble Cone in NZ. Having skied throughout New Zealand, Europe and Canada her fondest memories of ski school are from Silver Star itself. This will be her first season as an instructor at Silver Star. Madeleine’s favourite skiing moments are blue-sky powder days and loving the floating feeling through the powder. Her favourite memories from Silver Star, as a child, are skiing Whiskey Jack and her first black diamond run – fun, but very scary!

Mel Swinburn

Level: CSIA Level 2, CASI Level 2

Bio:
Born and bred in England, Mel started snowboarding on a school trip at the age of 16. She started horse riding tuition and this influenced her love for skiing and snowboard coaching. After a couple more holidays on the snow, Mel headed to Canada where she moved straight to Silver Star. She is coming into her third season and plans to continue her career for many more years to come. Mel's favorite run is Robin's Hood, where powder, bumps and kickers are the name of the game!

Jamie Kagan

Level: CSIA Level 3, Park & Pipe Certified

Bio:
Jamie started sking at the age of 3 and at the age of 13 decided that his dream job was to be a ski instructor. This dream became true 5 years ago when he trained in Lake Lousie. After spending 2 seasons instructing at Lake Louise, Jamie moved to Silver Star, where he is coming into his fourth season. Jamie's favourite run is Doognog.

Ian "Spike" Kenny

Level: CSIA level 2, CSCF level 1

Bio:
Spike has been loving skiing ever since his first moment on skis at the age of 14 in Italy. Since then he has been skiing throughout Europe, in Western Canada and New Zealand. He is very proud of his achievement "Silver Star Rookie of the Year", after opting for a career change. His favourite run is Sunny Ridge for the breath taking scenery at the top and a wealth of blacks and double blacks to drop into on the way down. Best skiing moments: where ever in the world, when you have worked hard to get to the top of the mountain, with blue skies above, awesome scenery around... and lots of the white stuff ahead. Best teaching moments: when you see that look on the faces that says "so that's it!!"

Pat Gerrie

Level: CSIA Level 3, CASI Level 1, CSCF Level 2

Bio:
Pat started teaching and coaching 30 years ago. During that time he has taught at a few areas in BC, Tasmania, Australia and worked for many years as a Ski School Director. He came to Silver Star 8 years ago. Pat has been named Ski Pro of the Year twice and currently assists the staff of the Snowsport School as a Supervisor. He has a passion for the sport that he strives to pass on to his clients and friends. Favourite runs: Gypsy Queen on a powder day, OTHDH course for the rush, Hamilton Crags on Ben Lomond (Tasmania). Best teaching moments: when a client goes from "I can't go down there" to "I can't believe we just did that! Can we do it again?"

Taurus Burton

Level: CASI Level 3, CASI Park Instructor, CASI Carving Instructor

Bio:
Taurus fell in love with the Canadian Rockies after a season in Fernie and decided to move to Silver Star after hearing amazing things about the mountain and the people who lived here. So far, he hasn’t been disappointed. Unless he's teaching, or it’s a powder day, you can usually find Taurus circling the Telus Park. Taurus’ best moment on a board was stomping his first 360! Taurus thoroughly enjoys teaching and his memories are filled with delighted faces of those he has taught successfully.

Marion Drummond

Level: CSIA Level 1

Bio:
Marion discovered her love of Canada and skiing when she went on her first ski holiday to Fernie, BC in 2006. The attraction of wonderful winters at Silver Star, with its snow covered mountains and amazing skiing, enticed Marion to leave a 26 year career as a Senior Manager in "The Corporate World". Marion qualified as a CSIA Level 1 ski instructor in 2008 and enjoys introducing this fantastic sport to enthusiasts who, like her, have decided to discover the joy of skiing later in life. You will see her working at the Snowsport School Front Desk or on the slopes. Her favourite run: Big Dipper - it must be the awesome views and the variable terrain.

Martin Bruun Frandsen

Level: CSIA Level 2, Danish BSI, Danish PSI 1, Danish PSI 3

Bio:
Martin is 29 years old. He works as a professional chef in Denmark during the summer and then as a ski instructor in the winter. He is almost done with his Danish levels and has now started on the Canadian ski instructor education. He hopes to pass the CSIA level 3 this season, but most importantly he is stoked about coming to Silver Star to teach skiing!

Nathan French

Level: CSIA Level 1

Bio:
Originally from England, Nathan moved to Vernon, BC with his family in the spring of 2003. Quickly he became very fond of skiing and in the 2007/2008 season he passed his CSIA Level 1. Nathan has been coming back every season since, and loves interacting with all the kids. Nathan’s favourite run is the Big Dipper when it’s freshly groomed and Chute 5 on a powder day! Nathan’s favourite teaching moment is when the kids he is teaching enjoy every minute and go away with huge smiles. Nathan is looking forward to another great season at Silver Star.

Melgert Dekker

Level: CSIA 3 CSCF 1

Bio:
Melgert started skiing in 1976 at Springhill, Winnipeg, Manitoba, a 125 foot vertical. "You had a make your turns count there." says Melgert. His best skiing experience was at Jackson Hole, Wyo. 1979. It was his first powder experience and then he was hooked for life. Melgert's favorite run is the one he is skiing at the time. As an instructor, Melgert's favorite day was teaching his wife and seeing her embrace the passion of skiing.

Dale Dunlop

Level: CSIA Level 2, CSCF Level 1

Bio:
Dale has been a ski instructor at Silver Star since 2006. In previous years, she taught at ski schools in Quebec, Alberta and with the Canadian Forces in Germany. She and her husband moved from Ottawa to Vernon on retirement to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle in the beautiful Okanagan, but more importantly, to indulge in the fabulous skiing at Silver Star. For Dale, the best part of teaching is seeing the look of amazement on a client’s face when they look back up the hill and say “Wow I really did that!” Dales favorite runs are Cat Man Do to Bucked Off for bumps, BX Express for cruising and Far Out for teaching novices.

Dan Francis

Level: CASI Level 2

Bio:
Born in Australia, a long way from any ski fields, Daniel became addicted to snowboarding when he took his first holiday to an Australian ski hill back in 2001. Since then several holidays have followed, until last year when he decided to give his office job, as an Engineer, a break and travelled to Silver Star to learn to be an instructor. After obtaining his level 1 and level 2 CASI qualifications, he also taught part time here at Silver Star in the 08/09 Season. His favourite run is Kirkenheimer, or Pipeline on a powder day.

Pascal Behm

Level: CSIA 2

Bio:
Pascal was born in Switzerland and started skiing at the age of 7. His passion for the sport grew over the years and then Pascal advanced quickly when he joined the Alpine Touring Team when he was 19 years old. He is looking forward to an amazing season at Silver Star. Pascal's favorite run is Whiskey Jack and any untouched terrain through the trees.

Brian Gorman

Level: CSIA Level 3, CSCF Level 2, CSIA Level 1 Course Conductor

Bio:
Brian has been teaching skiing for twenty one years. Originally an instructor in Southern Ontario, he discovered Silver Star five years ago. He fell in love with the people, the terrain and the village. He knew this was the place for him, 2009-10 will be his third year teaching at "My Mountain". Favourite teaching moment is always that look a client gets when looking back at having successfully conquered a run, that they had previously felt was beyond them. Best Experience on Skis: being part of the medical team involved in the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics, as a member of the Canadian Ski Patrol. Favourite Run: The next one. Second Favourite: the last one. Number one Goal: Making skiing FUN, SAFE, EASIER.

Ben Jackson

Level: CASI Level 2, Park & Pipe, Level 1 Evaluator

Bio:
Ben has been snowboarding now for 12 years and has had winter seasons in the French Alps, New Zealand, Banff, Whistler and Silver Star. Snowboarding has been Ben's life ever since his first moment he strapped into his board on a school ski trip. With a background in the British Army and outdoor education, Ben decided to move to Canada and pursue a career as a snowboard instructor. He is looking forward to his third season at Silver Star.

Ben Thomas

Level: NZSIA Level 2

Bio:
When half a foot of snow shut down London for three days straight, Ben decided it was time to up and leave in pursuit of his passion. Having been skiing in Canada since the age of four, Ben has skied extensively in The Alps in Europe, as well as more recently in New Zealand, where he gained his NZSIA Level 2 Qualification. This is Ben’s first year at Silver Star and he cannot wait to hit the slopes of the country that pretty much gave birth to his love of skiing.

Bill Lytle-McGhee

Level: CSIA Level 3, CSCF Level 1

Bio:
Bill began his ski teaching career at Big White 40 years ago. He directed a small ski school at Green Mountain on Vancouver Island while attending university in Victoria. He then went on to Manning Park as Assistant Director. Bill has spent many seasons as head coach of the Nancy Greene program at the Kimberley Alpine Resort, and worked occasionally in the ski school there, while also teaching at a local high school. Most recently Bill coached the alpine ski team at the international school of Luxembourg and had the opportunity to ski and coach at a number of Swiss and French resorts. His favourite venue is the Sierra Nevada resort in the Andalucia region of southern Spain, from where you can actually see Africa. He believes skiing to be one of the purest, joy-filled forms of FUN available on the planet, and strives to develop this appreciation in learners of all ages and abilities.

Liza Costello

Level:

Bio:
Ever since Liza’s first days of skiing in a one piece between her parents legs, she has been obsessed with the snow. Unable to cure her obsession she has spent nearly every year since, enjoying and competing (state and national) in the slushy snow conditions of Australia. Her taste of Kiwi and Canadian snow, and seasons spent at Vail (USA) and Mt.Hotham (Australia) only further fuelled her obsession. As a pow queen, come park rat she has come to Silverstar in search of fun! With years of experience teaching children’s gymnastics and playgroup, instructing is her ideal job allowing a mix of kids, coaching and of course…. snow! Her favorite times on snow are bluebird days, spent belting out Disney tunes on the chairlift with friends and racing downhill to get fresh tracks.

Dana Hawkins

Level: CASI Level 1

Bio:
Dana is from Prince George BC, and has been hanging out on ski hills since she could walk. After getting certified at Powder King Mountain, she taught two seasons there. Recently she took a break from school to travel to New Zealand. This year her goal is to chase some snow; spending some time in the summer riding in Chile and the winter here at Silver Star. Dana is excited to turn some new people on to this awesome sport!

Bryce Maloney

Level: CSIA Level 1

Bio:
Bryce was born in White Rock BC, and grew up in Armstrong BC. He started skiing at Silver Star Mountain when he turned 7 years old and didn’t stop there. Going skiing for winter rec. with his elementary school and staying up at Silver Star were always a treat. Bryce has been an instructor for 3 years and has enjoyed every second rippin’ the slopes with all of the kids he has taught. His favourite runs are Uncle Buck, Wee Willie, or anything in the trees!

Sheldon Kassa

Level: CSIA Level 1

Bio:
Sheldon has been skiing since before he could walk and has lived on the resort every winter since he was born. His grandfather was one of the seven original founders of the mountain. He is new to the Snowsport School but has been alpine ski racing and competing all across the province for almost a decade. With Sheldon’s experience on the mountain, he will be able to introduce you to all kinds of different terrain the mountain has to offer. He loves to see a smile when he’s out on the hill, because he then knows you’re having a good time. Sheldon is stoked to share his knowledge of the mountain with you and introduce you to new, exciting and enjoyable terrain.

Sydney Victor

Level: CSIA Level 1

Bio:
Sydney started skiing just for fun with a school group at Revelstoke; when it was still called Powder Springs. The more she skied, the more she loved it. Eventually their family bought a season’s pass at Silver Star and that was it; she was hooked on skiing! Because Sydney had always loved to teach others, and especially children, she thought it would be wonderful to bring the joy of skiing into others lives as best she could. So, after obtaining her CSIA Level 1 certificate, here she is.

Taylor Cunningham

Level: CSIA Level 1

Bio:
Taylor has been a keen skier up at Silver Star Mountain since the age of 3. She was a member of the Silver Star Freestyle Team for 6 years and specialized in park skiing and moguls. Taylor decided to work at Star Kids so that she could share the thrill that she gets while skiing with others. Taylor loves powder and always looks forward to the weekend so that she can spend it up at the hill. She lives and breathes skiing. Taylor’s favourite runs on the front side are Whiskey Jack, Sundance and the Chute. On the back side she likes Spirit Bowl, Bon Diablo, and White Elephant.

Tom King

Level: CASI Level 1

Bio:
Tom started skiing as a teenager, but switched to snowboarding on a trip to Whistler, and has never looked back. Tom then snowboarded in the French and Italian Alps before moving out to British Columbia last year and spending the season at Mt Washington where he passed his CASI 1. Tom’s looking forward to exploring Silver Star; riding in the famous champagne powder and passing his love of snowboarding on to anyone and everyone.

Vi Ta

Level: APSI Level 1, CSF Basic Coach

Bio:
Vi started snowboarding at the ripe old age of 20 and has spent 3 seasons teaching at Mt. Hotham in Australia. He has also seen three winters in powder country of the Japanese Alps; visiting different resorts in the Hakuba, Minami Otari and Myoko areas – if you want to know about Japan just ask him. Vi is enjoying his second season riding Silver Star's champagne powder and hopes to find all of the hidden gullies on the backside. He is also looking forward to visiting many more resorts throughout Western Canada. Most memorable on snow moment: clawing for dear life at the immeasurable depths of powder snow formed on a riverbank in back country Japan, wishing he were better at riding pow. Favourite run: Kirkenheimer.

Zach Thompson

Level: CASI Level 1

Bio:
Born and raised in Southern Ontario, where Zach has lived most of his life, he started snowboarding back in the '98/'99 season, at a time when he was the only kid he knew on a snowboard. Zach moved to BC in August of this year and can’t wait to ride the beautiful mountain in the Okanagan Region!! Favourite run: Ask me later! Best moment on a board: Standing on top of 7th Heaven Favourite teaching moment: Seeing my new friend discover the joy of riding a snowboard.

Denys Lawrence

Level: CANSI level 3 XC, CSIA Level 1

Bio:
Entering his 19th season at Silver Star, Denys is a CANSI level 3 XC instructor. When he is not on his Skate or Classic skis, Denys can usually be found poaching powder on his alpine boards in either Putnam Creek or Silverwoods. Denys loves teaching Cross Country to adults who want to find a better way to get in, and stay in, shape. While Denys' favorite run is Corkscrew, full moon skiing the headwalls the night before opening in 1998 rates as his favorite moment on skis. Denys' favorite teaching moment is the 'a-ha' of a client learning to climb a hill without having a heart attack. As well, he loves teaching Australians how to ski Cross Country without wearing spandex or lycra. A full time resident of Silver Star, Denys can be found painting and renovating houses, as well as riding his Mountain Bike, all summer long. He also runs the Silver Star Backcountry School for beginner backcountry skiers.

Damien Boyd

Level: CASI Level 3, Park 'n' Pipe Instructor, Carving Instructor, CASI Level 2 Evaluator, CSIA Level 1.

Bio:
Nickname: Damo. Hometown: Wollongong, Australia. Has worked in all aspects of the ski industry: lifty, ski/snowboard instructor, and ski/snowboard rentals. Damo has worked in Australia (Thredbo, Falls Creek, and Charlotte Pass), New Zealand (Coranet Peak), Japan (Sahoro Hokkaido), and Canada (Lake Louise, Alberta and Silver Star, BC).

Glenn Wurtele

Level: Canadian Senior Alpine Coach - Level 4; Canadian Master Coach, National Coaching Institute

Bio:
Glenn's work history includes seven years (1984-1991) as the Canadian National Ski Team "Mens' Head Coach". In 1976, he created the British Columbia Ski Team and operated this organization for six years acting as coach, manager and fundraiser. Both of these organizations experienced great success under his direction. His background in the ski industry also includes the Chairmanship of the Vancouver Ski show and seven years with the Board of Directors of the Canadian Ski Coaches Federation.