Mountain Creek to introduce basics of snowboarding
VERNON — Mountain Creek is visiting local elementary schools to introduce the basics of snowboarding through the Burton Riglet As Physical Education Program.
Mountain Creek is the first resort in the Northeast to implement the program in multiple schools. The goal is to showcase the thrill and enjoyment of the sport to children who otherwise may not have the opportunity to be exposed to the sport. Through the program, Mountain Creek’s top instructors transform students’ ordinary P.E. classes into a snowboarder’s playground by guiding them through four activity stations using the Riglet Reel, balance boards, twister-like freestyle trick mats and more. The concept of the program is to teach the basic movements needed for snowboarding and engage students through play.
“The instructors presented the fundamentals of snowboarding to our students from Pre-K to First Grade in a manner that all students could easily understand and enjoy,” said Todd Piontkowski, Physical Education Teacher at Walnut Ridge. “As a Physical Education and Health teacher of 18 years, I have never seen a program so well developed and educationally sound. Every school should have this program visit their school.”
Mountain Creek launched the Riglet P.E. Program at Walnut Ridge Elementary School in Vernon Nov. 17 to 21 where more than 500 students learned the fun of snowboarding and were awarded medals for their participation. Rolling Hills Elementary School is next on the list to initiate the program in December and other local schools are in the works.
“The temptation to hibernate during winter months is strong, so getting kids motivated in an environment they are already familiar with is another step against the electronic screens that are making kids forget about the outdoor playground,” explained Evan Gilardi, Mountain Creek Riglet Program Coordinator.
The Riglet Program is geared towards children ages 3 to 7 and is completely free for schools. Due to the overwhelming positive feedback and inquiries from additional schools, Mountain Creek plans to expand the program to the tri-state area. Any administrators interested in getting their school involved can call Mountain Creek at 973-864-6373 or experience the Riglet Park at Mountain Creek this winter.