Interski 2023: Ryan Christofferson on the ‘Reenergizing’ Power of the Event

Held every four years, Interski is an international event that brings together top snowsports instructors from more than 40 countries. The PSIA-AASI National Team attends to present their latest teaching techniques and get insight into new ideas to bring back home to members. The discussions that take place at the event help PSIA-AASI refine its approach to training instructors and improving the guest experience.

Here, PSIA Alpine Team member Ryan Christofferson provides a preview of what the team will present at Interski 2023 in Levi, Finland, March 26 through March 31.

What are you most excited about in anticipation of Interski 2023?

I’m most excited about coming back from Interski with fresh eyes on the message I’ve been working on. For me, it’s a reenergizing event that pushes and challenges me to be better.

Whether on-snow or indoors, what are you presenting, and how does that complement the team presentation?

I’m focused on presenting the people and teaching fundamentals through a freestyle lens. Freestyle coaches are good in a couple of those areas due to the nature of the arena we work in. We want to share that an instructor going through our Freestyle Specialist process will walk away with tools to help them with their everyday teaching. This continues to show that the Learning Connection Model and fundamentals carry through in all aspects of teaching snowsports.

How has your Interski preparations impacted how you approach your clinics, lessons, and coaching?

Prepping for Interski challenges my thinking and gives me the opportunity to grow my knowledge and skills. It keeps me fresh and engaged and hopefully makes me better at leading clinics, teaching guests, and connecting with my PSIA-AASI and Northstar teams.

What are you most interested in learning from the other countries and their presentations?

I can’t wait to see what the other countries are bringing. I look forward to the schedule and info from each country. It’s fun to digest the schedule and see what is available. I’m very interested in the learning process and differences in cultures and approaches, so I am hoping to see some presentations on the topic of learning.

What does the Interski 2023 theme, “The Guest Experience is Everything,” mean to you and PSIA-AASI’s approach to snowsports instruction?

I get to do a year-round “job” that is based around a sport I love, something possible thanks to all of the guests interested in improving their snowsports skills. I’m grateful for their interest, so focusing on guests finding ways to turn more people into lifelong snowsports enthusiasts is important.