This year, Alliance continued the growing tradition of taking a team trip snow trip – this was our 7th year! 2023’s trip saw us return to the Black Hills of South Dakota for some team building snow sports action. This time, we had a crew of eleven that decided to make the trek, and the result was a comfortable, bond-building trip.
This year the snow was better than last year and the weather more consistent; we had a beautiful bluebird day on Saturday and a nice snowy day with a fun layer of powder on Sunday. We also enjoyed games, swimming and a movie in the evenings. The crew also spent some time enjoying Black Hills amenities and hospitality thanks to the generosity and facilitation of Master Naomi Even-Aberle and Master Nik Aberle of Full Circle Martial Arts in Rapid City.
On the slopes, the levels of experience varied across a great range. A couple older members of the crew were shred veterans who have been on the slopes for years; a handful of others were trying to improve on the basics after already learning how to ride (or ski). Since everyone had at least some experience, we got to hit the slopes at greater speed. Beyond just snow sports however, fellowship and team building was the core goal of this trip and in that endeavor Alliance was blessed.
The Alliance 2023 Snow Trip was a success and a memorable event for all those who participated. The crew had lots of fun and will look forward to continuing the tradition in the future.