Missoula, MT – At Discovery Ski Area, nestled between Anaconda and Philipsburg, inclusion and accessibility are at the forefront of their mission, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the thrill of skiing. In partnership with Ability Montana, the resort has launched a volunteer training program designed to empower individuals with disabilities to experience the mountain like never before.
For many people living with disabilities, participating in winter sports can seem out of reach. Discovery Ski Area’s collaboration with Ability Montana aims to change that by providing the necessary support and training for both adaptive skiers and volunteers. This program is particularly beneficial for individuals who need extra assistance, offering them the tools to enjoy the slopes while fostering a strong sense of community.
Sherene “Lefty” Ricci, a volunteer-in-training, is a prime example of the program’s impact. Lefty, who lost her right leg to cancer at the age of 24, has refused to let her disability define her skiing experience. Despite the challenges she faced, she quickly adapted to skiing using a 3-track method and is now learning additional techniques, such as sit-skiing, to help others. “The mountains are for everyone, and there’s no reason to stay home in the winter. Even if you have a disability, you should get out and play just like everybody else,” Lefty said.
David Poole, the program manager, shares a similar passion for skiing. In 2006, Poole became a paraplegic following a skiing accident in Colorado. Undeterred by his disability, Poole has continued skiing and even competed in the 2016 X-Games. His experience has led him to become a key figure in the adaptive skiing program at Discovery Ski Area, where he helps to guide others and show how skiing can have a positive impact on one’s life.
Patrick Quinn, the adaptive coordinator for the program, brings years of experience working with adaptive skiers. His journey began as a teenager when he was introduced to adaptive skiing through a free lift ticket, and it eventually turned into a profession. Quinn believes that understanding the physical and mental aspects of a student’s experience is crucial to providing effective support. “The most effective thing to be aware of for a student is, is their body relaxed? If not, why? Is there a physical consideration? Is there a mental consideration?” Quinn explained to volunteers-in-training.
The volunteer program is not only about teaching technical skills but also about building community and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, feels included. Once volunteers complete the training, they assist with one-on-one lessons and support adaptive skiers during school field trips. The program’s goal is to create a supportive and inclusive environment where participants can enjoy the social benefits of skiing while receiving the necessary assistance to feel part of the group.
For those interested in getting involved, the volunteer program is open to individuals 16 years of age or older. Volunteers receive a free lift ticket on the days they are training, along with additional incentives. The program is centrally located, making it accessible to residents of Missoula, Butte, and surrounding areas, and is similar to other adaptive sports programs at resorts such as DREAM Adaptive in Whitefish and Eagle Mount at Showdown, Bridger, and Big Sky.
The collaboration between Discovery Ski Area and Ability Montana highlights the growing movement toward inclusivity in winter sports. By training volunteers and offering specialized support, the program is breaking down barriers and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can experience the joy of skiing.
