2021-24 National Team: Meet Matthew Larson

Matt Larson is a member of the 2021-24 PSIA-AASI National Team where he will help set the standard for snowsports instruction. PSIA-AASI hand-selected the 37 team members – 8 coaches chosen last season and 29 team members selected spring 2021 – for their range of skills that allow them to serve as inspirational leaders and build enthusiasm for learning and having fun skiing and riding.

Meet AASI Snowboard Team member Matt Larson.

Matt Larson

Where is your home mountain?

Big Sky, Montana

What other occupations are you involved in?

Papa and family man, critical care nurse, whitewater kayak instructor, raft guide.

Describe a teaching or learning experience that sticks out in your mind.

Sitting on a 125cc motorcycle with the goal of learning to ride. It reminded me it’s both exciting and scary to learn a new sport.

What are your specialties in regards to your role as a team member?

I focus my attention on freestyle coaching, commonalities between disciplines, and creating environments to coach people skills.

Do you have any other relevant certifications or accreditation you’d like to include?

PSIA-AASI Snowboard Level III and Telemark Level I with Freestyle Specialist 3 and Children’s Specialist 2 credentials.

What are some facts people don’t know about you?

I am goofy-footed. I prefer to spin counter-clockwise. I love Lucky Charms. My middle name is Charles. I wore a helmet when driving for the first six months after receiving my driver’s license.

Who is your greatest inspiration as an instructor?

Here comes the cheese! My greatest inspiration as an instructor is my family. They help me to stay grounded and focused on having fun.

Best part of teaching?

The best part of teaching is the trust your students give you to establish a sense of success.

What’s your favorite run at your home mountain?

1st Upper Pocket to Donkey Slot, then over the Never Sweat Knob, across to the Artillery Shack Gulley, down to the park, and ending at Yeti Dogs.