Beaver Creek, Colorado, is renowned for its world-class ski facilities, but beyond the slopes, the community is dedicated to nurturing young talent through various ski programs. Two notable initiatives, the Buddy Werner League and SOS Outreach, provide local youth with opportunities to develop their skiing skills while instilling valuable life lessons.
Buddy Werner League: Cultivating a Love for Skiing
Established over 55 years ago, the Buddy Werner League (BWL) offers recreational alpine ski racing for students from 2nd to 8th grade. Operating out of Beaver Creek, the program focuses on fun, skill-building, and teaching important values like teamwork and sportsmanship. With a limit of 250 participants each season, BWL relies on volunteer coaches, sponsors, and grants to thrive. The program runs for 10 weekends each season, welcoming skiers with a skill level of 5 or higher. Learn more about BWL.
SOS Outreach: Empowering Youth Through Mentorship
SOS Outreach is a nonprofit organization that uses skiing and snowboarding to foster personal growth and community involvement among youth, particularly those with limited access to outdoor sports. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, SOS Outreach serves students from fourth grade to high school, emphasizing mentorship, life skills development, and community service through a five-year curriculum that includes mountain ride days and skill-building activities. Participants report that the ski days and the opportunity to help their communities are the most enjoyable aspects. Beaver Creek’s Chief Operating Officer, Bobby Murphy, highlights the program’s mission to break down barriers and stereotypes in outdoor sports. With support from partner Vail Resorts, SOS Outreach is working to expand its reach nationally, aiming to make the transformative power of outdoor experiences more accessible to youth across the country. Read more about SOS Outreach.
These programs exemplify Beaver Creek’s commitment to fostering a love for skiing and personal development among its youth, ensuring that the next generation carries forward the community’s rich skiing heritage.