An Alternative to Centerline
Y-Model Covers the Bases
by Caleb Carlson
As a species evolves, it be comes more complex, and the diversity within a population increases simultaneously. As individuals become less alike so do their behaviors become less standardized.
Snowboarding as a sport has been at this stage for quite some time. By expanding the Center Line concept, thereby creating the Y-Model, the American Association of Snowboard Instructors is attempting to better reflect the diversity already present on the slopes. This step is critical if we are to meet the needs of students and be a valid educational and certifying organization for snowboard instructors.
The concept of the Center Line originated with alpine skiing. Although seldom do people ski perfect Center Line, differences in style and approaches to various terrain and snow condition seem to be evenly distributed around the imaginary line.
When applied to snowboarding it has become increasingly obvious that a Center Line which focuses on various forms of turning creates a large concentration of popular riding movements off to one side of the line. These freestyle moves often use different skill blends and movement patterns but are just as much a part of today’s snowboarding as carving and bump riding.
By virtue of popular support freestyle deserves to be a part of the Center Line, hence the Y-Model was formed. It recognizes the need for everyone to first learn basic board control and turns while modeling the divergence of freestyle and alpine techniques as well as the blend of the two into all mountain riding.
The difficulty of Center Line maneuvers may currently be weighted in favor of alpine riding, but the Y-Model is a gigantic step in the right direction. Freestyle is a completely legitimate aspect of snowboarding, and people with a freestyle background should be welcomed into ski schools. Alpine riders like myself need to face the facts and learn some new moves.
Note: Caleb Carlson works at Schweitzer Mountain and is a Snowboard Divisional Clinician.
