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Super, Blind Skiers on Super
Bowl Sunday
On Super Bowl Sunday, January 1 , 1997, a
group of blind and visually impaired high
school students from Virginia Beach, Virginia,
came to participate in an Adaptive Learn to Ski
Program. Throughout the day, each of the four
blind and visually impaired skiers refined their
skiing skills, going through a unique progression
of activities.
 Students worked closely with an
instructor/guide who used a variety of verbal
commands and physical assistance techniques
to guide skiers down the slopes. The strong
relationship which develops between the
instructor/guide and the blind skier is one
which has a foundation based on trust,
continuous assessment, two-way
communication, and support. With each run
down the slopes, the students sensed
improvements in their gross motor skills,
balance skills, and overall mobility and they
became increasingly more confident.
In addition to all the learning which took place
on the slopes, the students socialized in an
apre's ski/Super Bowl party at the Ski Patrol
house. Students and staff shared drinks and
snacks as they cheered for their favorite Super
Bowl contender. Later, a fine Italian meal was
served for all to enjoy. After a good night's
sleep in the quaint A-frame chalet, the group
departed back home to Virginia Beach, taking
with them some lasting memories of all their
accomplishments and many new friendships.
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