Second Tracks Youth Skiing Program Collingwood – Free Lessons and Gear
Second Tracks youth skiing program Collingwood
Second Tracks is a groundbreaking program designed to bring the joy of skiing and snowboarding to youth in Collingwood, Clearview, and The Blue Mountains. Created through the collaboration of North Shore Ltd (NSL), YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, and Blue Mountain Resorts, the initiative aims to eliminate financial barriers, making winter sports accessible to families who might otherwise miss out.
What is Second Tracks?
The program draws its name from the ski term “First Tracks,” referring to the privilege of carving the first trails on fresh snow. Second Tracks, a playful nod to this, symbolizes the opportunity to experience the “next best tracks” while embracing community, inclusivity, and fun.
Program Highlights
- Free Ski Nights at Blue Mountain
- Launch: Sunday, January 12, 2025
- Runs: Every Sunday until March Break (excluding Family Day weekend)
- Includes: Lift pass, equipment rental, and lessons for up to 50 youth aged 12–16
- Volunteer-supported sessions ensure an 8:1 student-to-instructor ratio
- Transportation and Meals
- Round-trip transportation from the YMCA to Blue Mountain
- Program hours: 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Dinner provided to all participants
- Winter Clothing and Equipment Drive
- Donations of gently used ski gear and winter clothing are collected by Second Tracks
- Donors receive a tax receipt issued by the YMCA
- Two Four-Week Sessions
- Session 1: Learn to ski over four consecutive weeks
- Session 2: Open to new participants or continuing students, depending on availability
Why It Matters
Addressing Mental Health Challenges
Research shows that prolonged screen time and limited physical activity contribute to mental health struggles among youth. By providing an outdoor, challenging, and engaging activity, Second Tracks offers:
- A mental health boost through play and socialization
- Increased confidence by learning new skills
- A sense of community and belonging
Building a Brighter Future
Participation in sports and recreation is linked to:
- Higher education levels
- Improved career prospects
- Leadership development
- Reduced risk behaviors
Collingwood by the Numbers
- Over 1,200 youth aged 10–14 in Collingwood
- 8.2% child poverty rate, equating to at least 150 children who could benefit
- A wealth of high-quality secondhand ski equipment in the area due to local ski clubs
Collaborative Partners
Second Tracks is supported by a stellar lineup of community-driven organizations:
- YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka: Providing administrative support, transportation, and youth programming expertise
- North Shore Ltd: Founder and program sponsor, led by former Canadian Ski Team member John Mealey
- Blue Mountain Resorts: Offering ski passes, rentals, and facilities for the program
- Rossignol Group: Supplying premium gear and program endorsements
- Local Businesses: Including Later Pizza and Collingwood Blues
Measuring Success
The program’s impact will be evaluated by:
- Tracking annual participation rates
- Gathering feedback from youth and families
- Monitoring engagement in future volunteer roles
Join the Movement
Second Tracks is more than just a ski program—it’s a community initiative that fosters inclusion, builds resilience, and inspires a lifelong love of winter sports.
How You Can Help:
- Donate gear: Help local youth stay warm and equipped.
- Volunteer: Be part of a team that changes lives.
- Spread the word: Share the program with families and friends.
For more information, contact:
- John Mealey, Founder & Chair: john@northshore.ltd
- Laura Kelly, YMCA VP: laura.kelly@sm.ymca.ca
- Chris Horan, Rossignol President: chris.horan@rossignol.com
Together, let’s make winter sports a possibility for every child in our community!
Blue Mountain Resorts
YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka
Rossignol Group
North Shore Ltd.
Canadian Ski Council
