Ridge Mountain Academy — a program where action sports are combined with education — will begin its inaugural semester Jan. 9, 2015, in Whitefish.

Ridge describes itself as a campus-based enrichment program offering tailored coaching in mountain sports and physical training for young adults to develop mentally, physically, academically and socially in the period between high school and college. 

Designed for student athletes ages 17 to 20, the academy combines mountain sports with academics, internships, health and nutrition and life skills on a semester basis. 

Each student athlete will create a customized curriculum based on individual needs with one-on-one academic tutoring available. While health, fitness and nutrition are part of the daily curriculum, the program also integrates college credit courses and internships with Whitefish Mountain Resort and other local businesses. 

In addition to courses in mountain science, avalanche safety and wilderness medicine, Ridge offers training and coaching in backcountry skiing and snowboarding, Nordic skiing, ice climbing and more.

“This is not simply a time to recreate in the mountains,” said Ridge founder Billy O’Donnell. “Our program is designed as a time for young men and women to re-create themselves and gather strength for their next big life step while opening windows to future possibilities. We believe that Ridge will be a turning point and pay dividends for the rest of their lives.”

O’Donnell, a Colorado transplant, has a diverse background as a professional athlete and businessman. He is a professional skier, a former international freeride competitor, and was team manager for Obermeyer, the Aspen-based snowsport apparel company. O’Donnell previously served as director of admissions at AIM House in Boulder, Colo.

“We selected Whitefish as one of the top mountain towns in the nation for the natural environment near Glacier National Park, its access to backcountry terrain and its cultural offerings,” O’Donnell said.

With details yet to be finalized, the academy will be located on a 16-acre campus in Whitefish. Tuition including room and board is approximately $7,500 a month per student.

To apply, or for more information, visit www.Ridgeacademy.com.