ADAPTIVE SKI ASSOCIATION OF WEST MICHIGAN
"If I can do this, I can do anything!"
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About Adaptive Ski Association of West Michigan
Adaptive Ski Association of West Michigan (ASAWM) is a volunteer organization located in West Michigan, working to provide opportunities for people with a variety of challenges and disabilities to enjoy snow sports.
History
Our organization was established in the early 1980s as Cannonsburg Challenged Ski Association (CCSA) to offer individuals with disabilities the opportunity to participate in winter activities. CCSA started with only ten students, one outrigger, a bamboo pole and one sit ski, and has now evolved over the years into a professionally trained organization with a full range of adaptive equipment, ready to serve a wide variety of needs. In 2022, our name was changed to Adaptive Ski Association of West Michigan (ASAWM).
​Current Board of Directors
A volunteer Board of Directors governs ASAWM. These directors are dedicated individuals whose expertise lends to the organization's vitality.
President
Noah Schneider
Vice-President
Mike Tyska
Treasurer
Colin Schiefler
Secretary
Josh Szymanski
Tyler Anderson
Nicole Astfalk
Suzanne Cox
Mike Guswiler
Justin Fielder
Paul Galdes
Richard Rowell
Holly Omiljan
John Whitten
Adaptive Skiing
DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED
ASAWM works with individuals six years or older who have a wide range of physical, mental and developmental disabilities. We offer lessons for the following disciplines:
What is Adaptive Skiing?
ASAWM was established in the early 1980’s to offer individuals with disabilities the opportunity to participate in winter activities. ASAWM started with only ten students, one outrigger, a bamboo pole and one sit ski, and has now evolved over the years into a professionally trained organization with a full range of adaptive equipment, ready to serve a wide variety of needs.
Who Can Participate?
ASAWM works with individuals six years or older who have a wide range of physical, mental and developmental disabilities. We offer lessons for the following disciplines:
SENSORY IMPAIRED
For individuals who are deaf or hearing impaired and blind or visually impaired. Instructors will use more hands-on techniques and should have excellent communication skills.
MONO-SKI
For individuals who have good upper body strength, balance and trunk motion, specifically, paraplegics and high-level amputees. Instructors must be strong, advanced-level skiers with excellent lifting capabilities and will work in pairs.
BI-SKI
For individuals who have less upper body strength, balance and trunk motion, specifically quadriplegics, high-level paraplegics and persons with more severe impairments. Instructors must be strong, advanced-level skiers and capable of lifting.