Brian Buerger Resigns as Durango Winter Sports Club Freeride Director
BREAKING: After an impressive two-decade career, Brian Buerger has announced his resignation as the freeride ski director for the Durango Winter Sports Club (DWSC). His decision to step down, confirmed earlier today, marks the end of an era for youth skiing in Durango.
Buerger, who has spent the last 20 years fostering a love for freeride skiing among young athletes, described his role as transforming kids into confident skiers. “I always called it giving kids superpowers,” he stated. “When you have good technique and you’re in shape, the things you can do on skis is absolutely incredible.”
The announcement comes as DWSC’s freeride program has seen unprecedented growth, with participation skyrocketing from just 7 athletes and 1 coach in its inaugural year to an astounding 65 kids and 13 coaches in 2024. Buerger’s departure raises questions about the future of the program, which he helped build from the ground up.
Buerger’s journey began at the age of 18 as a ski instructor in southern Indiana, later moving to Colorado in 1995. He was inspired by skiing legends and quickly became a pivotal figure in the freeride scene, establishing a competitive youth program at Alta in 2005. His return to Durango in 2011 saw the launch of Four Corners Freeride, based at Wolf Creek Ski Area, where he faced challenges in promoting the sport to a skeptical community.
“Most people looked at me cross-eyed when I was trying to talk about freeride,” Buerger reflected. His commitment and innovative approach gradually changed perceptions, and participation surged as the community recognized the value of the sport.
In 2019, Buerger transitioned the program to Purgatory Ski Team, integrating it with DWSC, which now encompasses various skiing disciplines. Under his leadership, the program emphasized not only technical skills but also community values, instilling a sense of responsibility and camaraderie among young skiers. “We push our kids to be friendly and selfless,” he noted.
As Buerger prepares to move to Basalt in November 2024, he is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for his successor and the coaching staff. The spirit of his program, characterized by the motto “R.A.W.R – Radical Awesomeness When Ripping,” is set to continue influencing young skiers in the region.
Buerger’s impact on the community and the sport is profound. His dedication to nurturing young talent and creating a culture of safety, responsibility, and fun has left an indelible mark. As DWSC looks to the future, the legacy of Brian Buerger will undoubtedly shape the next generation of freeride skiers.
The skiing community in Durango is left to ponder the future of the program without him, but Buerger’s contributions will resonate for years to come. Stay tuned for updates on the transition and the future direction of the DWSC freeride program.
