NORWICH – Norwich snowboarder Justin Gager recently achieved Level One certification by the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI).

Ski and board instructors at most ski resorts have to pass only local exams to be hired. A few dedicated riders continue their training and become certified by the national ski or snowboard associations.

Gager, who started snowboarding at age 13, is currently a Norwich High School senior.  He is in his second year as a snowboard instructor at Labrador Mountain Ski Center in Truxton.