BBSEF Parent-Athlete Handbook

This handbook provides an overview of BBSEF programs, expectations, safety policies, competition structures, and volunteer requirements. It is intended to support a positive, safe, and developmentally appropriate experience for every athlete and family.

Skier's Responsibility Code

There are elements of risk in skiing that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce.

• Ski under control and in such a manner you can stop or avoid other skiers or objects.
• When skiing downhill or overtaking another skier, you must avoid the skier below you.
• You must not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.
• When entering a trail or starting downhill, yield to other skiers.
• All skiers shall use devices to help prevent runaway skis.
• You shall keep off closed trails and posted areas and observe all posted signs.
• This is a partial list. Be safety conscious!

BE AWARE! SKI WITH CARE!

Officially endorsed by National Ski Area Association Ski Area Rules

ADA Compliance & Accessibility

BBSEF is committed to providing inclusive programs and making reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Because BBSEF programs occur in a dynamic mountain environment, terrain, lifts, snow conditions, and facilities may present inherent physical limitations. While not all aspects of mountain sport are modifiable, BBSEF will engage in an individualized interactive process to explore reasonable accommodations that allow meaningful participation without fundamentally altering the nature of the program or compromising safety.

Families requesting accommodations should notify BBSEF as early as possible, ideally at registration. Supporting documentation may be requested where appropriate.

Bogus Basin Partnership & Mountain Expectations

Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area provides BBSEF with the opportunity to train and compete. Compliance with all ski area policies is a condition of participation and is incorporated into the BBSEF Parent and Athlete Codes of Conduct.

All BBSEF athletes must:

• Carry their season pass at all times and present it to lift attendants upon request.
• Follow all posted signage, closures, and ski area policies.
• Yield to and prioritize the general skiing public.
• Never cut lift lines.
• Say, "Thank you" when you get on the lift
• Be cordial and respectful of all area employees and other skiers. The general skiing public always comes first.         
• Refrain from tucking on open slopes unless directed by a coach within a controlled training environment.
• Use a spotter when jumping; blind jumping is prohibited.
• Report accidents or unsafe conditions immediately to Ski Patrol or lift personnel.
• Conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on BBSEF and the ski area.
• No foul language
• In case of an emergency or accident, contact a ski patrol or go to the lift attendant at the bottom or top of any lift
• BBSEF members are highly visible. You represent BBSEF, and your actions reflect on the organization as a whole within the ski area and skiing community.
• Do as much positive promotion of Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area as you can

Failure to comply with ski area policies may result in disciplinary action consistent with the BBSEF Athlete Code of Conduct and/or Handbook, up to and including suspension or removal from participation. Parents are expected to model and reinforce these standards in accordance with the BBSEF Parent Code of Conduct.

Without the generous support of the Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, we would not have a place to train.

Competitor Responsibilities

Participation in BBSEF is a privilege, not a right. All athletes must adhere to the BBSEF Athlete Code of Conduct, SafeSport requirements, and applicable USSS and Intermountain Division regulations.

Athletes are expected to:

• Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and respect in all team environments.
• Follow the direction of coaches and staff.
• Respect teammates, competitors, officials, ski area personnel, and volunteers.
• Contribute to a safe, positive, and sportsmanlike culture.
• Comply with all BBSEF policies, including mandatory drug testing for U16 and older Travel Team athletes.

Violations may result in disciplinary action as outlined in the Athlete Code of Conduct.

Daily Training Expectations

These operational standards reinforce the Athlete Code of Conduct and are required for continued participation.

All athletes must:

• Arrive on time and prepared for all training sessions and team activities.
• Notify their coach in advance if unable to attend.
• Dress appropriately for conditions and maintain equipment in safe working order.
• Inspect training and race courses unless otherwise directed.
• Wear goggles during training sessions. Sunglasses are not allowed.
• Assist with course set-up and tear-down unless directed otherwise.
• Return equipment properly and report damaged items immediately.
• Follow all Jason Haper Training Center and ski area operational rules.
• Adapt appropriately to schedule or condition changes.

Drug Testing Policy

BBSEF is committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and drug-free environment. Compliance with this Drug Testing Policy is a mandatory condition of Travel Team participation.

Applicability

This policy applies to all Travel Team athletes age 13 and older who travel with the team.

Testing Requirements

Athletes must:

• Submit proof of a negative drug test at registration.
• Participate in random drug testing during the season as determined by BBSEF.
• Comply with random selection administered by an independent third-party provider.
• Acknowledge that a percentage of eligible athletes may be tested during each random cycle.
• Understand that any athlete who has previously tested positive may be included in subsequent random testing.

Positive Test Results

An athlete who receives a positive test result:

• Is immediately ineligible for all BBSEF training, competition, travel, and team activities.
• Must provide proof of a subsequent negative test, at the athlete’s expense, before reinstatement will be considered.
• A second positive test within the same season may result in suspension from the program for the remainder of the season.

All testing results will be handled confidentially in accordance with BBSEF policies.

Violation of this Drug Testing Policy constitutes a violation of the BBSEF Athlete Code of Conduct and will be addressed under the disciplinary authority outlined therein. The Executive Director and/or Program Director retain discretion in enforcement consistent with BBSEF policies. 

Substances Tested

Drug testing may screen for commonly abused controlled substances, including but not limited to marijuana (THC), cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamines, opiates, phencyclidine (PCP), and alcohol. Testing panels may be updated or modified at the discretion of BBSEF and/or its third-party testing provider.

Testing Procedures

All sample collection and testing will be conducted by qualified third-party personnel using scientifically accepted methods and procedures designed to preserve the integrity, confidentiality, and reliability of results.

Positive screening results will be confirmed using an independent, scientifically accepted confirmation method prior to being used as a basis for disciplinary action.

BBSEF reserves the right to require retesting in the event of inconclusive, invalid, or diluted results.

Prescription Medications

If an athlete tests positive, they will be given the opportunity to provide documentation of legally prescribed medications that may account for the result. Failure to provide adequate documentation may result in the test being treated as a violation of this policy.

Athletes are responsible for disclosing to their parent/guardian any prescribed treatment that may impair safe participation.

Confidentiality

Testing results and related communications are considered confidential and will be disclosed only to the extent necessary to administer and enforce this policy.

BBSEF Disciplinary Framework Policy

Participation in BBSEF programs is a privilege, not a right. All athletes are expected to comply with the BBSEF Athlete Code of Conduct, Parent Code of Conduct, Travel Team Addendum (if applicable), Drug Testing Policy, SafeSport requirements, ski area policies, and applicable USSS regulations.

Violations of these policies will be addressed promptly and consistently in a manner that protects athlete safety, program integrity, and the mission of BBSEF.

Disciplinary Authority

The BBSEF Board Disciplinary Committee retains authority to review and determine consequences for policy violations.

The Executive Director and/or Program Director may impose interim measures, including temporary suspension, when immediate action is necessary to protect safety, ensure compliance, or preserve program integrity. Interim measures remain in effect pending review by the Board Disciplinary Committee.

Classification of Violations

Classification of a violation as serious or other is determined at the discretion of the Board Disciplinary Committee based on the severity, frequency, and circumstances of the conduct.

The examples listed below are illustrative and not exhaustive.

Serious Violations

The following may be considered serious violations:

• Breaking the law while participating in BBSEF activities
• Use, possession, or distribution of illegal drugs
• Use or possession of alcohol
• Use of tobacco or nicotine products
• Bullying, harassment, abusive conduct, or behavior that interferes with another athlete’s right to learn
• Conduct that endangers the safety of the athlete or others
• Significant dishonesty or misrepresentation
• Violations involving abuse or misconduct subject to SafeSport jurisdiction

Serious violations may result in immediate suspension from training, competition, travel, and team activities pending review. Consequences may include probation, suspension, conditions for reinstatement, or removal from the program.

Other Violations

The following may constitute policy violations:

• Violation of ski area rules
• Violation of Training Center or daily training rules
• Curfew violations at away events
• Failure to follow reasonable direction of coaches or staff
• Inappropriate use of social media or electronic communication related to BBSEF activities
• Misuse, damage, or theft of BBSEF or ski area property
• Inappropriate conduct during travel, lodging, or team-related activities
• Failure to comply with academic, registration, drug testing, or administrative requirements
• Unsportsmanlike conduct toward competitors, officials, or teammates
• Repeated disruptive behavior

Consequences may include warning, probation, suspension, loss of privileges, or removal from participation, depending on severity and pattern of behavior.

Repeated violations may result in escalated disciplinary action.

Due Process

Prior to final disciplinary action, the athlete will receive notice of the alleged violation and be provided an opportunity to respond.

The Board Disciplinary Committee will review relevant information before determining final action.

SafeSport Coordination

Allegations involving abuse, harassment, sexual misconduct, or other conduct within SafeSport jurisdiction will be reported and addressed in accordance with SafeSport requirements and may be handled outside of this disciplinary framework as required by governing regulations.

Appeals

An athlete may submit a written appeal within five (5) days of notification of disciplinary action.

Appeals will be limited to review of procedural fairness or new material information not previously considered.

Submission of an appeal does not automatically stay or suspend the disciplinary action. Any disciplinary measures shall remain in effect during the appeal process unless modified in writing by the Board Disciplinary Committee.

The BBSEF Board Disciplinary Committee will review appeals. If the Committee issued the original decision, the full Board of Directors may review the matter upon request. The Board's decision, if reviewed, shall be final.

Concussion Policy

BBSEF is committed to the health and safety of all athletes. Concussion awareness, prevention, and management are critical components of safe participation in mountain sports.

For a complete review of BBSEF’s Concussion Management Plan, please visit:

https://www.bbsef.org/parent-resources/concussion-management-plan/9303

Suspected Concussion

If at any time an athlete is suspected of having sustained a concussion during training, competition, or team activities, the athlete will be immediately removed from participation.

An athlete removed for suspected concussion:

• May not return to play on the same day.
• May not resume training or competition until evaluated and cleared in writing by a qualified health care professional.

Coaches and staff have the authority to remove an athlete from participation when a concussion is suspected.

Symptoms and Recognition

Concussion symptoms vary widely. A loss of consciousness is not required for a concussion to occur.

Common symptoms may include:

• Headache
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Nausea
• Fatigue

Symptoms may appear immediately or may develop minutes, hours, or even days after the injury. The severity and duration of symptoms vary from athlete to athlete.

Return to Play

Return-to-play decisions must follow BBSEF’s Concussion Management Plan and any applicable governing body guidelines.

Athletes may return to participation only after:

• Written medical clearance from a qualified health care professional, and
• Completion of any required graduated return-to-play protocol.

Parent and Athlete Responsibility

Parents/guardians are responsible for:

• Promptly informing coaches of any diagnosed concussion.
• Monitoring their athlete for delayed symptoms following a head injury.
• Ensuring medical clearance is provided before return to participation.

Failure to disclose a known concussion or related medical restriction may result in removal from participation until compliance is achieved.

Refund Policy

Refund Policy Alpine / Freeski / Snowboard Programs

BBSEF programs operate in dynamic outdoor environments. Training schedules, number of training days, locations, and conditions are not guaranteed and may be modified, canceled, or rescheduled due to weather, snow conditions, mountain operations, safety considerations, or other factors.

No refunds or credits will be issued for missed, canceled, or modified training sessions. Refunds of

Refunds will only be granted for:

• Illness or injury that prevents an athlete from participating for the remainder of the season, or a significant portion thereof. A physician’s written statement is required.
• Relocation outside the region preventing participation in the program.

Refund Schedule:

Home Teams

Prior to Dec 15 …………..75% refund

Dec 16 – Jan 15…………..50% refund

No refunds after Jan 16

Travel Teams

Prior to Dec 15 …………..50% refund

Dec 16 – Jan 15…………..25% refund

No refunds after January 16

Additional Provisions

• Refunds are calculated based on coaching fees only and do not include licensing fees, equipment purchases, uniforms, team gear, travel costs, or third-party expenses.
• Refund requests must be submitted in writing.
• BBSEF reserves the right to review all refund requests in accordance with this policy.

Note: New members may receive a full refund of coaching fees if their skiing ability limits participation in the program, as determined by coaching staff on the first day of practice.

Mountain Bike Team Refund Policy

Refunds of BBSEF Program fees will only be granted for:

• Illness or injury preventing participation for the remainder of the season, or a significant portion thereof. A physician’s written statement is required.
• Relocation outside the region preventing participation in the program.

Refund Schedule:

• Prior to April 30 – 75% refund
• May 1 – May 30 – 50% refund
• No refunds after June 1

Note: New participants will receive a full refund of coaching fees if their ability limits participation, as determined by coaching staff on the first day of practice. Licensing fees and governing body fees are non-refundable.

Additional Provisions

• Refunds are calculated based on coaching fees only and do not include licensing fees, equipment purchases, uniforms, team gear, travel costs, or third-party expenses.
• Refund requests must be submitted in writing.
• BBSEF reserves the right to review all refund requests in accordance with this policy.

General Membership & Governance

BBSEF is a nonprofit, tax-exempt corporation whose purpose is to provide competitive Alpine, Freeski, Snowboard, and Mountain Bike educational programs for youth in the Treasure Valley.

Membership & Voting

A BBSEF membership is established through each paid individual athlete registration. Each paid membership shall be entitled to one (1) vote in the election of Directors. For athletes under the age of eighteen (18), the vote shall be exercised by the athlete’s parent or legal guardian. Voting is conducted in person at the Annual Spring Meeting. Proxy voting is not permitted.

The BBSEF Board of Directors consists of nine (9) elected Directors. The elected Directors may appoint up to three (3) additional Directors to serve one-year terms.

Elected Directors serve staggered three-year terms.

The Board of Directors provides strategic direction, long-range planning, financial oversight, and fundraising leadership to ensure the sustainability and growth of BBSEF.

The Board meets monthly during the season. Families interested in attending a Board meeting may contact the BBSEF office for current meeting details.

An Annual Meeting of the Membership is held each April/May. All BBSEF families are encouraged to attend.

Fundraising

Fundraising is essential to the sustainability of BBSEF. Program fees cover only a portion of the actual cost of operating our programs. The balance is supported through fundraising efforts and volunteer engagement.

Winter Welcome

Winter Welcome is a fall fundraising dinner featuring silent and live auctions. Member participation is essential for soliciting auction items and supporting event operations.

Ski Swap

The Ski Swap, held in early November, is one of BBSEF’s most significant annual fundraisers. Its success depends entirely on volunteer participation from our membership. Swap shifts are typically 3–4 hours in length.

Volunteer Guidelines

Parents and guardians are vital partners in fulfilling the mission of BBSEF. Volunteer participation allows us to host events, operate competitions, and subsidize program costs while keeping fees as reasonable as possible.

Volunteer requirements are based on program level:

Mitey Mites, Alpine Devo, Freeski Devo, Snowboard Devo

·       1 Winter Welcome auction item

·       4 Ski Swap shifts

·       2 event/race days

Volunteer Opt-Out: $300 (one-time fee, in addition to program fees)

North Series Team, Freeski & Snowboard Progression

·       1 Winter Welcome auction item

·       8 Ski Swap shifts

·       2 event/race days

Volunteer Opt-Out: $600 (one-time fee, in addition to program fees)

Alpine, Freeski & Snowboard Competition Teams

·       1 Winter Welcome auction item

·       16 Ski Swap shifts

·       2 event/race days

Volunteer Opt-Out: $900 (one-time fee, in addition to program fees)

Volunteer opt-out payments are due at registration and are non-refundable.

Failure to fulfill volunteer obligations or submit the opt-out fee may impact an athlete’s eligibility to participate in BBSEF events or competitions.

We believe the overall impact of sport extends well beyond athletic results. Your volunteer support enables BBSEF to fulfill its mission and values while providing high-quality programming for youth in our community.

Code of Conduct

Athletes will:

• Not use alcohol or illegal drugs while participating with the team.
• Abstain from the use of any tobacco products.
• Not use profane or abusive language
• Conduct themselves with honesty and integrity. No stealing or misrepresentation whatsoever.
• Show self-control and have consideration for others. 
• Respect other people's belongings. Tampering with other athletes' equipment and personal belongings will not be tolerated.
• Have the inherent right to learn

Daily Training Rules

Every participating athlete of a BBSEF Team will:

• Be on time for designated training sessions and team activities.
• Notify your coach if you are unable to attend practice or any scheduled team activity.
• Dress in a responsible manner for the day's weather.
• Always carry their season pass.
• Maintain personal ski equipment on a regular basis to ensure personal safety and optimum performance.
• Observe Training Center rules.
• Observe ski area rules.
• Inspect all training and racing courses unless otherwise instructed.
• Wear goggles while training. Sunglasses are not allowed.
• Assist with set-up and tear down of training and racing courses unless otherwise instructed.
• Return equipment where it was found. If something is broken please notify your coach, so that it may be fixed.
• Do your part to keep the pole bin in an orderly fashion.
• Never yell at a public skier who might cut in front of you or happen to ski a team training course.
• Be prepared for contingencies and changes of schedule.
• Bring your best attitude and behavior.

Guidelines for BBSEF Rule Violations

Consider the following a Minor Offense:

• Misbehavior
• Breaking Curfew at an away race
• Lying             
• Violation of ski area rules
• Violation of Training Center rules or daily training rules

Punishment for a Minor Offense:

• 1st Offense- One-week suspension from all team activities
• 2nd Offense- Three-week suspension
• 3rd Offense- Indefinite suspension

Consider the following a MAJOR OFFENSE:

• Breaking the law while participating with BBSEF
• Use of illegal drugs
• Use of alcohol
• Use of tobacco
• Persistent lack of respect for fellow team members and competitors, especially younger members of the team. Backstabbing, critical comments, bullying and abusive language toward others that can interfere with another athlete's right to learn and/or lead to diminished participation in the program.

Punishment for a Major Offense:

• 1st Offense- Two-week suspension from all team activities
• 2nd Offense- Indefinite suspension from the team and team privileges, return of loaner equipment.

Any rule infractions endangering yourself or others may result in a 1-year suspension.

Appeals - All punishments imposed by the rules and policies of the Bogus Basin Ski Education Foundation are subject to appeal by the athlete. A BBSEF Board of Directors approved Appeals Committee will review, evaluate and recommend action to be taken by the Board based on a case presentation by the athlete through a formal hearing.

Jason Harper Training Center Rules

The Jason Harper Training Center is located at Bogus Basin and is designated for coaches, staff and BBSEF travel team athletes ages 11 and above as of December 31 of the competition season. Athletes will be removed from the training center if they do not abide by these rules.

Read More

Travel Team Training Van Protocols

Transportation to midweek travel-team trainings are provided for BBSEF athletes who register in advance. Registration for Travel Team Vans will be available on a per-training-day basis through signup.com.

• You will sign up starting with van #1 until it reaches capacity, then van #2 and so on.  
• Registration will close 24 hours before the day of departure. This ensures we have the correct number of drivers, and all van riders have seatbelts. 

1. The driver will have a rider list to check off athletes. 
2. All athletes must ride up and back down in the same van, meaning there will be no switching vans. 
3. The vans will load at the office at 3:30 p.m. and will depart promptly at 3:45 p.m. 
4. Our targeted return time to the office is 8:00 p.m.   

In the situation where parents drive their athlete to the mountain and plan to have them ride down in a van, the parent must personally speak (no texts or voicemails) with the van driver(s) before the start of training to determine if there is an available seat on a van. If there is not an available seat, then the athlete in this circumstance cannot ride in the van and will need to ride back with the parent or have other available transportation.  

Please read and follow the above protocols to help us provide a top-notch transportation program for everyone. 

Academic Policy

BBSEF has a policy to monitor and support the academic progress of travel team athletes by requiring a minimum 2.5 GPA (no F's allowed for participation in either team training or racing). Grades will be requested throughout the season. Athletes will be expected to rectify the situation as quickly as possible and demonstrate through school review that grade requirements are being met. Athletes who need time to make up work missed due to travel will be allowed ten days to complete unfinished schoolwork. Athletes who are unable to bring their grades up to meet minimum standards will be issued refunds according to the published refund policy.

Competition Pathways & Series Overview

BBSEF offers multiple competitive pathways based on discipline and athlete goals. Each pathway follows a structured competition model governed by recognized organizations, with opportunities ranging from local events to regional, national, and international competition.

Home Team Competition (Coaches Cup Series)

Programs: Mitey Mites, Alpine Devo, Freeski Devo, Snowboard Devo

Home Team athletes participate in the BBSEF Coaches Cup Series, which includes:

• Slalom or Slopestyle
• Giant Slalom or Slopestyle
• Coaches Cup Finale (multiple events over two days)
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All athletes receive participation recognition. Overall season awards are based on cumulative results.

North Series and Travel Team athletes do not participate in Coaches Cup events.

Alpine Ski Racing Pathway

Governing Bodies:

U.S. Ski & Snowboard

FIS (International Ski & Snowboard Federation)

USCSA (United States Collegiate Ski & Snowboard Association)

Development Pathway

U8–U12

Introduction to divisional racing (non-scored)

U10-U14

IMD divisional racing and introduction to scored competition

U14- U21

Advanced IMD and Western Region competition; FIS eligibility begins

U16 / U21

Internationally scored races and global ranking

Collegiate Opportunities

Athletes may compete at the collegiate level through:

• USCSA (club-level collegiate competition)
• NCAA programs

Ranking Systems

• U.S. Ski & Snowboard Points (national ranking)
• FIS Points (international ranking)

Licensing Overview (Simplified)

• Home Team → No national license required
• Alpine North Series → U.S. Ski & Snowboard license
• Park & Pipe → USASA license (may later require U.S. Ski & Snowboard)
• Big Mountain → IFSA license
• Advanced Alpine / Park & Pipe → May require FIS license

Coaches will guide families regarding appropriate licensing and competition level.

Qualification for Alpine Divisional Championship visit https://imdalpine.org/.

North / South Series (IMD)

The Intermountain Division (IMD) is geographically divided into North and South regions.

North Series athletes compete in:

• Regional IMD competitions
• Non-scored races (U10–U14)
• Qualifying events for Intermountain Championships

As athletes progress, races become nationally scored and may lead to Western Region and FIS-level opportunities.

Big Mountain / Freeride Pathway

Governing Body:

IFSA (International Freeskiers & Snowboarders Association)

Athletes compete in:

• IFSA Regional Events
• IFSA Junior Regional Championships
• IFSA National Events

Top-ranked athletes may advance within the Freeride World Tour (FWT) pathway.

Ranking System

• IFSA Regional Points
• Championship qualification based on seasonal standings

Big Mountain competition emphasizes line choice, control, technique, fluidity, and overall impression judged on natural terrain.

Park & Pipe Pathway (Freeski & Snowboard)

Governing Bodies:

USASA (grassroots level)

U.S. Ski & Snowboard (elite level)

FIS (international level)

Athletes may compete in:

• Slopestyle
• Rail Jam
• Halfpipe
• Big Air
• Skier/Boarder Cross

Development Progression

• USASA Regional Series
• USASA National Championships
• U.S. Ski & Snowboard elite events
• FIS international events

Steep and Deep Appreciation to BBSEF Sponsor