Crystal Mountain Volunteer Ski Patrol Takes Home “Outstanding Patrol of the Year Award”
Written by: Caitlin Habenicht
Alongside our paid ski patrollers on the hill, Crystal Mountain has a dedicated team of volunteer patrollers who have been awarded “Outstanding Patrol of the Year” by the National Ski Patrol (NSP).
Crystal Mountain’s volunteer roster of Alpine and Safety Patrollers, Mountain Hosts, Medical Associates, and Young Adult Patrollers is an example of the diversity of the National Ski Patrol. Providing more than just safety; this team sets the example of education, guest services, and driving inclusivity through programs like the Young Adult Program and She Jumps. Their leadership structure ensures growth and education for all ages. Their dedication to using best practices gained from the NSP enables them to provide the dynamic training that patrollers need to meet the expectations of resort guests.
With experience ranging from newcomers to those with over 65-years of experience, our volunteer patrol defines dedication to their craft. In 2020 in the face of the pandemic, the volunteer patrol developed innovative protocols that became a model and example for other ski areas. By implementing a proactive operating plan that tested terrain openings in May and June in the year of 2020, this became a successful effort in ensuring safe operations, minimal disruptions, and a nearly complete roster of active patrollers during the pandemic years.
Along with facing the pandemic and the uncertainty alongside that year, this team significantly expanded its NSP Mountain Host Patrol by adding 38 Mountain Hosts to provide added guest services. To this day, these Mountain Hosts augment the Safety Patrollers’ focus on skier safety while supporting patrol functions that do not require OEC or OET certification, such as scene safety and sweep support.
Mountain Hosts at Crystal
Our volunteer patrol invests 2,400 hours (about 3 and a half months) annually in training programs, ensuring teams are equipped to handle everything from routine operations to high-stake rescues! Key programs include NSP courses such as Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC), CPR, Outdoor Emergency Transport (OET), Avalanche Training, and Mountain Travel & Rescue (MTR). Advanced clinics like Division-level Advanced Terrain Clinics enhance patroller skills in steep, off-piste conditions, while innovative tools like the Megacode Kelly mannequin for critical care simulations keep patrollers prepared for emergencies. In 2023, this extensive training led to two documented life-saving incidents, showcasing the team’s readiness and ability.
Joining volunteer patrol is a rigorous yet rewarding process. Upon acceptance, patrollers are paired with an experienced mentor, fostering skill development and community integration. Crystal Mountain’s volunteer patrol not only fosters long-term stability and growth but also actively nurtures and mentors those who are new, existing or interested in joining the team. The team also prioritizes the growth of this program and future leaders, as shown by its strong Young Adult Patroller (YAP) program and partnerships with She Jumps. The future and influence of this program is a continuous inspiration for all ages.
Once again, we are proud of the volunteer patrol team here at Crystal. This team has exemplified the values of the NSP through innovative training, community-focused programs, and life-saving actions. They continue to set the benchmark for what a ski patrol can achieve.
Once again, join us in congratulating the Patrol Team at Crystal on their accomplishments. We look forward to the future of this program and the inspiration it brings to the Crystal community.
