Jan Degerberg

About Jan

I was born in Zurich Switzerland and came to Colorado when my father was awarded a scholarship to play with the prestigious Denver University Hockey Club.  Always the outdoor enthusiast, I attended Mesa State College in Grand Junction and studied physical education.  My education would in turn help me find success within my ski instructing career.  I’ve lived in Breckenridge Colorado for the past 30 years and currently work with the the Breckenridge Resort Ski Patrol Team.

Career Background

I started ski instructing in 1975 at Powderhorn Ski Area.  In 1981, I decided to move to Breckenridge where I worked towards attaining my PSIA Level 3 and then onto my PSIA Examiner Certification.  I always had a dream of becoming a ski guide and after a conversation with a colleague I decided to pursue that dream.  In 2010, I joined the Breckenridge Ski Patrol Team which would help me piece the necessary knowledge to become a ski guide.  After my first season on patrol, I enrolled in the H2O Heli Guide School in Valdez Alaska.  I earned my American Mechanized Ski Guide Level 2 and American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education Level 1 and 2.  I’m currently patrolling in Breckenridge and working towards gaining more experience to become a tail guide with a heli guide operation.

Treatment Procedure and Recovery Plan

On June 12, 2012 I underwent a knee replacement with The Steadman Clinic.  Recovery will be about 6-8 months while focusing on strength, balance and extension.

Testimonial

"It is hard to describe what it feels like to face what could be the end of a dream, career and potentially an entire lifestyle. If you are sitting reading this, I am sorry you are hurt; but let me tell you, you have found the right people that can help you through it. I've been given a gift that is a blessing and more importantly a second chance to further my career and love for skiing. The Kees Brenninkmeyer Foundation changed my life, they believed in what my hopes and dreams are and have given me the chance to continue my journey. Incredible, unbelievable, beyond what I truly comprehended, I cannot put into words what this foundation has given me. "

- Jan Degerberg