Hear what female Rep, Carole Hussell, has to say

1. What’s your favourite part about connecting with members during skiing/social hours, and how do those moments shape the club experience?

My favourite part about connecting with members is finding out the unique aspects about every skier. Their other hobbies, interests, why they love the sport. It’s fascinating finding out about everyone’s first experience of skiing and what gives them the greatest thrill. When people are on the mountain it’s a very freeing experience. At the end of the day many of us are here to have fun, connect and share our passion for the sport. Finding people to ski with can be really tricky and knowing you can show up in a resort and find people to ski with is one of the real joys and values of the club..

2. As a woman in the ski industry, what does it mean to you to represent the club on the mountain and help create a welcoming, inclusive environment?

I am so proud to be representing the ski club on the mountain both with members and the wider ski industry. A large part of being a great ski club leader, for me, is about inclusivity. So whatever your background everyone is welcome to ski with the group. Creating a welcoming vibe is a must. Once you start to spend time with others on the mountain then competence and mountain craft become key ingredients for ski club representatives. The vast majority of skiers are out to have a memorable time skiing in the most spectacular scenery with interesting and entertaining people. The best ski club reps create a great team vibe and have fun with the group.

3. What’s one memorable moment you’ve had skiing with members this season (or last) that really stuck with you?

The spectacular scenery is always memorable. Last season skiing at Cortina and the beautiful hidden valley was particularly arresting. I love skiing when you are really making a journey. This day was very beautiful, and in the evening it was great to catch up with members and tell others about the club in lovely Italian bars. One moment I remember from a few years ago is when I was the rep on a Freshtracks holiday in a coach full of members on our way to Val D’Isere. The coach got stuck in the snow and the driver asked if anyone on the coach had a shovel. Thirty hands shot up. Classic ski club.

4. What advice would you give to other women looking to get more involved in the ski industry or build confidence on the mountain?

Just get out there and do it. My top tip is to join a Freshtracks group holiday with a guide or instructor who will be going off piste. I learned so much being a rep on Freshtracks holidays. It’s a great short cut to really top quality instruction and experience in a safe, controlled setting. Get your own equipment, buy your own shovel, probe and transceiver and know how to use them. I know it’s a costly outlay but it could save you and your ski buddies. Then pick the brains of other skiers – most of them are only too happy to share their knowledge. For skiing psychology my favourite book is Inner Skiing. Gives a totally different perspective on learning to ski. Most of all keep on learning and enjoy challenging yourself. A big part of skiing development is being out of your comfort zone, that is where challenge and learning turn into growth.