“Our mission is to create a space where every rider feels inspired, confident and motivated to achieve their personal best, on and off the slopes.”
WHO WE ARE
Drop Next strives to use our knowledge of both high performance and fundamental snowboarding to assist young athletes on their way to competing at the highest level.
We seek to create a safe, fun but also disciplined, and focused environment for riders to become better snowboarders, better people, and better athletes.
With the combined experience and passion of Rakai Tait and Brett Esser, a former Olympian and a former U.S. Team athlete, we can and will deliver a high quality program where athletes of all ages can thrive and achieve.
-
"I’ve known Brett and Rakai for a long time. On hearing the news of them teaming up, I couldn’t be more excited! This is the premier program out there! From development to Olympic, these guys have the passion and knowledge to create the best athletes they can. Combine that and their attention to detail, they will set the new standard for halfpipe programs."
-Mike Lund, U.S. Rookie Team Head Coach
-
"I've known Brett for nearly 20 years. We started out as competitors, but there came a point in my career when I needed a new coach. While being a good snowboarder doesn't always translate to being a good coach, it took just one day of talking and working with Brett to realize he excelled at both. His passion for helping his athletes excel is unmatched. Like athletes who constantly strive to improve, Brett is continually honing his coaching skills. We've had many in-depth conversations about my snowboarding, and often, he'll come to me the next day with new ideas, having thought about our discussion all night. In a coach, I look for knowledge, trust, and a passion for both coaching and a passion for their athletes—Brett embodies all three. I couldn't be happier to be part of the team."
-Louie Vito, 2X Olympian, 6X X-Games medalist, 2X Dew Tour champ & 3X Grand Prix champ
-
"It’s been a pleasure working with Brett. He truly loves this sport and cares about his athletes. He takes his time to listen to my feelings and feedback and I appreciate the support he’s provided me over the years."
-Cai Xuetong
-
"These are gonna be your guys if you want to give it everything you got on your snowboard. There is something about a coach who has taken it to the highest level as an athlete themselves, being able to know what it feels like to be in your shoes is something special. Throwing in a very high recommendation to these two very hardworking guys and I suggest to get in while you can, sure the waitlist is gonna start soon!"
-Elijah Teter, Wy’East Mountain Academy Athletic Director
