EN
Background. The aim of this paper was to show the level of competences of instructors affiliated with SITS (Association of snowboard instructors and coaches). The process of teaching snowboard instructors has changed due to the fact that demands of the job have increased. Material and methods. The thorough analysis of the issue was based on the research material collected among snowboarders who were participants of technical courses in winter season 2013/2014 (154 people, Kaunertal – Austria). The research method was a survey. Results and conclusions. Participants in the training courses positively assessed professional competence of snowboard instructors with whom they worked. This proves the instructors had a good preparation in both substantive and pedagogical knowledge. Key competencies that determine the success of snowboard training, according to the respondents, were communication skills. Respondents almost explicitly admitted that the highest value is the communication between the instructor and learner.