Ski Instructors
Skiing and snowboarding may be lifelong passions, but everyone has to start somewhere. At Sugarloaf, a variety of instruction is available, including half-day and full-day programs for kids ages three to 14 and lessons for adults.
01 “Mad” Mike Mewshaw
“Mad” Mike Mewshaw has been a ski coach at Sugarloaf for more than 30 years. He likes giving his students nicknames and will remember them when they return years later, says Butler. Mewshaw teaches all ages—from three-year-olds to adults, including parents who see how much fun their kids are having with him, says Butler.
02 Anne Poirier-Flight
In her fourth year at Sugarloaf, Anne Poirier-Flight is a PSIA-certified instructor and the go-to pro for three- and four-year-olds in the Mountain Magic program. “Kids are immediately drawn to her—she has a remarkable way of putting children at ease and helping them discover the fun and excitement of skiing,” says Tom Butler, director of Skier Services at Sugarloaf.
03 Bob Bailie
Another Mountain Magic instructor, Bob Bailie is one of the most creative kids’
ski professionals on the hill, famous for incorporating foam noodles, Frisbees, and more into his lessons. Bailie is also known for tying pieces of surveyor tape to the helmets of his students. Not only does the colored tape help him identify his students on the slopes, Butler says it makes them feel like they’re part of a special team—the self-proclaimed ski ninjas.
04 Scott Peddicord
Scott Peddicord primarily works with seven to 14-year-olds in Sugarloaf ’s Mountain Adventure program and on weekends in the Bubblecuffer seasonal instructional program for kids. “One of the nicest people you will meet,” says Butler of Peddicord. “Fun and completely respectful of the children; kids light up when they see him.” Butler’s own kids took classes with Peddicord, and his 11-year-old son still asks to join Peddicord when he can.
05 Jimmy Gibbons
A snowboarding coach in his second season at Sugarloaf, Jimmy Gibbons is an AASI-certified professional who earned Perfect Turn’s “Rookie of The Year” award last season. Regardless of the weather or conditions, Jimmy is always excited to take a group out and the students respond in kind. “He’s a fantastic ambassador for our program and for snowboarding as a whole,” says Butler.
06 Scott Hoisington
Scott Hoisington is a ski professional for all ages and abilities at Sugarloaf. He serves as an education staff member for the Professional Ski Instructors of America and is also a Level 400 United States Ski Coaches Association race coach—the highest domestic coaching designation. Hoisington is the coordinator of the University of Maine at Farmington’s Alpine Operations Certificate program.