Cross Country Yukon fosters growth and athletic excellence in young skiers through structured, high-quality programming designed for every developmental stage. We strive to build a supportive environment where athletes cultivate the essential mechanics and physical literacy required for competitive success as cross country skiers. Grounded in Nordiq Canada’s Long-Term Athlete Development framework, our squads pathway progresses from foundational skill development to elite national and international performance opportunities.
Please reach out to Cross Country Yukon coaches if you have any questions about whether a squad program is the right fit for your athlete. We work closely with Whitehorse Nordic’s youth development programs to help every skier find their optimal program.
Orange Squad (8-9 years old)
The Orange Squad introduces 8- to 9-year-olds to structured training and racing in a fun, supportive atmosphere. This is a skill development program geared towards young athletes who are (or might be) interested in ski racing. Orange Squad athletes are pre-adolescent so the focus is on building physical literacy—agility, balance, coordination, speed, and flexibility—alongside fundamental ski mechanics. Through group-oriented games, play-based exercises and interval training, as well as social activities, athletes build competence in both classic and skate techniques while forming lasting connections with their peers. Skiers are encouraged to try local races to experience the joy of healthy competition while they build confidence.
Equipment Requirements: Separate skate and classic skis and poles are required. Boots can be combi boots.
Schedule: 3 days a week during the ski season (with a 2-day per week option if desired).
Skill Requirements: Participants must be confident with both classic and skate skiing techniques, equal to completion of the Whitehorse Nordic Snowshoe Hares program or 2-3 years in a Jackrabbit program
Purple Squad (10-11 years old)
The Purple Squad introduces 10- and 11-year-olds to the excitement of structured training and competition. Most athletes will still be pre-adolescent so the focus at this stage remains heavily on skill acquisition, speed, flexibility, and physical literacy. Through group-oriented games and dynamic on- and off-snow activities, athletes refine their classic and skate techniques while learning to navigate the racing process with supportive peers. Athletes are encouraged to participate in local races in a positive, well supported environment.
Equipment Requirements: Separate skate and classic skis and poles are required. Ski boots can be combi boots. We strongly recommend good-quality running shoes, and a waist pack for water and snacks.
Schedule: 3 days per week during the ski season (with a 2-day per week option if desired)
Green Squad (12-13 years old)
Green Squad athletes focus on becoming confident racers. Green Squad works on racing technique and on smooth transitions between techniques. Athletes’ training volume and intensity increases to build their endurance and strength to become stronger skiers. Rollerskiing becomes key to training with this group. Green Squad has two training camps and one out of Territory race trip each year.
Equipment Requirements: Separate classic and skate skis, boots and poles, rollerskiing gear (helmet, high-vis vest, gloves), running shoes, dryland strength gear, and a hydration belt/pack for longer workouts.
Schedule: 4 days per week during the ski season (with a 2-day per week option if desired)
Blue Squad (14+)
The Blue Squad focuses on year-round competitive race preparation and high-performance pipeline development. Designed for committed adolescent and junior athletes, the program emphasizes periodized aerobic endurance training, targeted strength training, and advanced technical refinement across both classic and skate techniques. Athletes participate in 4 to 5 intensive summer and fall training camps to build their training base and team cohesion. The program provides clear competitive pathways, including selection opportunities for travel to major national competitions such as Ski Nationals, Canada Winter Games, and World Junior Trials.
Equipment Requirements: Race-grade classic and skate skis, poles and boots, complete rollerskiing equipment (skate/classic rollerskis, helmet, high-vis vest, gloves), specialized strength/gym gear, running shoes, and a hydration system.
Schedule: 2 practices/week in the summer; 4 practices/week in the fall and winter.
Red Squad (Nationally recognized athletes, nominated by CCY)
The Red Squad supports nationally-recognized Yukon athletes pursuing elite-level competition at the national and international levels. Nominated directly by Cross Country Yukon based on prior season performances and high-performance criteria, athletes in this category represent the territory while training with University teams, Division teams, or National Training Centres (NTCs) across Canada. CCY provides ongoing organizational support, coaching alignment, and resource access to ensure a seamless bridge between territory-based development and senior elite racing.
Resources for Squad Skiers
Find useful information for every athlete in the squad program.
Resources for Parents
Do you have a child in our squad program? You will find useful background information here.
Resources for Coaches
Volunteer coaches are a crucial part of our squad program. If you are interested in becoming a coach or have been volunteering for a long time, this is your resource for all information around coaching.
