Erik Leirfallom

On the Snow:
I have been a skier and racer for years. I stopped ski racing my freshmen year of college in order to put more energy into something that was very difficult for me, school.

In order to stay on the snow and continue to improve my abilities, I started teaching skiers at Purgatory / Durango Mountain Resort.

While at Purgatory / Durango Mountain Resort I became a certified PSIA (Professional Ski Instructors of America) clinician and examiner. In time, I was put in charge of the ski school s youth programs and directed the team. During this time, I also spent time coaching at Mt. Hood in Oregon.

In 2007, I worked for the Adaptive World Cup team and my tour of the world included World Cups, World Championships, and the Winter Paralympic Games in Vanacouver.

I joined the Team Summit staff at the Alpine Program Director in 2011.

Coaching Experience:
I started working with youth when I was a junior in high school and have been working with them ever since as a camp counselor, canoe and backpack trip leader or ski coach.

As a coach, I have learned that you cannot be set in your ways and you cannot have one specific philosophy; everyday and every child are different. Every athlete is so unique and needs to be coached in a way that fits their learning style and physical abilities. I have been able to teach all ages from four year olds, just learning how to ski all the way up to professional athletes.

I have always enjoyed working with young people in the outdoors because that is where you really get to see people come out of their shell and grow.

All of my education and experiences have made me into the coach I am today. I want to continue to learn from other athletes and coaches alike. As soon as I get set in my ways, it’s time to move on.

Off the Snow:
In September 2010 I became a father and as mushy as it may sound, fatherhood is making me better at everything, including coaching.

Now that someone is reliant on me, I’m focusing a lot on personal time management, reading into situations and other forms of communication in order to be a better father.

I also like meeting new people from all walks of life with all forms of thought. This helps my coaching style because I meet new people who teach me new things. You can learn a lot from someone who disagrees with you or has a different way of thinking.

As far as what I like to do outside of skiing … really anything that gets me out of my boots for just a little while.

Contact: Erik@TeamSummit.org