Girls Academy extended at MK Sno!zone

Just when you thought the fun was over, Girls Academy at Sno!zone Milton Keynes have announced that they're pushing on with their monthly women-only nights - and it's thanks to the amazing support you ladies have given them over the summer.

Girls Academy - spearheaded by a team of female boarding coaches at the centre - started in the summer and was supposed to finish, well, about now.

But, with up to 40 girls travelling from far and wide to join the sessions, the team are frothing on the success and detrmination of their riders and have decided to push on into the winter months.

Girls Academy is open to all girls who have reached Level Four standard at the centre - that's being able to link turns from the top of the main hill there. It started as a breakaway group from the freestyle nights staged by the centre.

Coach Rachel Elliott explained: "Doing a rail for the first time when a bunch of boys are looking on can be really, really intimidating.

"We thought it was too male-dominated and that some girls were reluctant to join in because of this - so we decided to do something about it."

The emphasis is on breaking into and perfecting freestyle in a supportive and controlled environment, with female coaches on hand to help with your every move.

But jumps and rails aren't a necessity.

"It's about where you want to take your riding next, and it's not limited to boarders - we've sorted out coaching for skiers as well," said Rachel.

Girls Academy takes place from 7pm to 9pm on the final Thursday of every month - and don't be afraid to go it alone.

"Our girls travel from far and wide - many of them on their own - and as soon as they're here and on the slope, there's nothing quite like being frightened of a rail to get everyone bonded. It's super-friendly and we really encourage each other, then usually go for a few drinks in the bar."

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