The NCDF Team Coatsworth Athlete Grant is an annual grant delivered through the Nordiq Canada Development Fund. The aim of the grant is to support individual elite athletes who are in financial need and have demonstrated the potential to reach international podiums. An athlete’s involvement in furthering their education will also be a consideration.

The grant was established through a generous gift from long-time Canadian cross-country ski supporter and former Nordiq Canada Board Chair Jamie Coatsworth. Jamie’s continued support has made it possible to expand the grant for the 2026–27 season and provide funding to three additional athletes.

The three additional grants will provide $2,000 each to:

• One Olympic stream female athlete
• One Olympic stream male athlete
• One Paralympic stream athlete

APPLICATION FORM (click to view)

Athletes wishing to apply for the grant must provide the details outlined in the application form to info@nordiqcanada.ca by September 28, 2026.

Nordiq Canada has announced its 16-athlete World Cup Period One (WC P1) team for the opening competitions of the 2026–27 FIS Cross-Country World Cup season in Ruka, Finland; Trondheim, Norway; and Davos, Switzerland.
After evaluating potential venue options and snow reliability, Nordiq Canada has confirmed that a mid-November WC P1 Trials event will not be held.

The High Performance Committee determined that it would not be possible to deliver a trials competition that meets the standard required for World Cup selection. The decision was based on several factors, including the lack of guaranteed snow conditions, the absence of a venue capable of providing a World Cup-standard race course, and the likelihood that, even with sufficient snow, available course widths would not safely and fairly accommodate the race formats required for athlete selection.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that World Cup selections are made through a process that is fair, credible, and reflective of the demands athletes will face on the international stage,” said Eric de Nys, High Performance Director, Nordiq Canada. “Rather than force a trials event under uncertain conditions, we chose the path that best preserves the integrity of the selection process while remaining consistent with our published criteria. We are excited to send a team that has earned this opportunity and is well positioned to represent Canada as the World Cup season begins.”

In accordance with the published 2026–27 World Cup Selection Criteria, the High Performance Committee has finalized the World Cup Period One team through the established objective performance criteria, followed by selections made under Section 5 of the published World Cup Selection Criteria, where applicable.

World Cup Period One Team
Men
Selected through Objective Criteria
• Olivier Léveillé – COC Leader
• Antoine Cyr
• Tom Stephen
• Xavier McKeever
• Remi Drolet

Selected under Section 5 of the published World Cup Selection Criteria
• Max Hollmann
• Sasha Masson
• Graham Ritchie
• Finn Redman
• Pierre Grall-Johnson

Women
Selected through Objective Criteria
• Sonjaa Schmidt – COC Leader
• Alison Mackie
• Liliane Gagnon
• Katherine Stewart-Jones

Selected under Section 5 of the published World Cup Selection Criteria
• Jasmine Drolet
• Ruby Serrouya

The World Cup Period One selection process reflects Nordiq Canada’s commitment to applying its published selection criteria while ensuring athlete selection is conducted through processes that are safe, equitable, and consistent with the performance standards required for international competition.
The World Cup Period One campaign opens in Ruka, Finland (November 27–29) before continuing to Trondheim, Norway (December 4–6) and concluding in Davos, Switzerland (December 12–13), providing the team’s first opportunity to establish Nations Cup momentum and build toward the remainder of the 2026–27 international season.
Nordiq Canada congratulates all selected athletes and wishes the team success as it begins the World Cup season representing Canada on the international stage.

26-27 World Cup P1 Selection and Rationale (1)

Byström joins Nordiq Canada following six years as High Performance/Sports Director for Ski Team Sweden, where he led the national team program through a highly successful period on the international stage. Over the past six years, teams under his leadership have achieved 44 World Championship and Olympic medals, including 14 World Championship gold medals and five Olympic gold medals.

Prior to leading Sweden’s cross-country program, Byström served as High Performance/Sports Director with the Swedish National Biathlon Team and spent five years coaching within the Norwegian Ski Federation. His coaching experience includes working with some of the world’s most accomplished cross-country skiers, including Johannes Høsflot Klæbo, Simen Hegstad Krüger, Stina Nilsson, Jonna Sundling, and Maja Dahlqvist.

In his new role, Byström will provide strategic expertise across three key areas of Nordiq Canada’s high-performance program: coach development, the development athlete pathway, and National Team performance support.

A significant focus will be helping Nordiq Canada strengthen the professional development pathway for Canadian coaches, from the club and development levels through to the National Ski Team. Through mentorship, workshops, on-snow support, and the sharing of international best practices, Byström will help build the skills, confidence, and capabilities of the next generation of Canadian high-performance coaches.

He will also provide strategic guidance to strengthen the pathway for junior and U23 athletes progressing toward World Cup, World Championship, and Olympic performance, while supporting Nordiq Canada’s High Performance Director, Head Coach, and coaching staff with international competition planning and preparation.

“I’m incredibly excited to join Nordiq Canada and contribute to the continued development of Canada’s high-performance system,” said Anders. “There is tremendous potential across the country, and I look forward to working alongside athletes, coaches, and leaders to strengthen the pathways, share knowledge, and build the systems that will support international success for years to come.”

“Anders brings an extraordinary depth of experience from two of the strongest cross-country ski systems in the world,” said Beckie Scott, CEO of Nordiq Canada. “Just as importantly, he is passionate about developing people—coaches, athletes, and teams. His experience, perspective, and commitment to building sustainable high-performance systems will be an invaluable addition as we continue strengthening Canada’s pathway to international success.”

Byström holds a Bachelor of Science in Sports Science, specializing in sport psychology, from Halmstad University in Sweden.

Working collaboratively with Nordiq Canada staff, Divisions, clubs, coaches, athletes and partners across the Canadian sport system, this position will lead initiatives to identify and recruit new athletes, strengthen relationships and alignment throughout the development pathway, and support
the progression of athletes toward the National Team program.

The Development Lead will also serve as Nordiq Canada’s primary lead for Para Nordic athlete classification, supporting Canadian athletes through national and international classification processes. The role contributes to building a sustainable pipeline of athletes, coaches and system
capacity capable of supporting international performance and long-term Paralympic success.

Click here to learn more and apply

Nordiq Canada is excited to offer development opportunities for coaches and wax technicians during the 2026-2027 season.

These immersive experiences provide hands-on learning within the Development and High Performance systems, including opportunities to support Nordiq Canada at the Nordic Junior/U23 World Ski Championships and the U18 Unofficial World Championships.

Application Process

Interested applicants are encouraged to review the details and submit their application by August 26, 2026.

Access the Application Form Here

Coaching Opportunities

Nordic Junior/U23 World Ski Championships (Otepaa, Estonia)

The Nordic Junior/U23 World Ski Championships is a multi-sport event with the best U20 and U23 athletes in the world.

Dates:  January 9th – 25th, 2027

Positions:  Up to 4 coaches

Recommended Requirements:  L2C Trained or Certified

Responsibilities:

• Assist the Team Lead by co-leading a competition group; daily training support, athlete debriefs/goal setting, video analysis
• Attend TCMs and help lead team meetings
• Support local logistics
• Transportation of athletes
• Race service; on-course and wax room support
• Assist in all other areas as required

U18 Unofficial World Championships/Scandinavian Race Education (Scandinavia)

The U18 trip features some of the best U18 athletes in the world. Nordiq Canada intends to run this trip; however, if it is felt that attending would compromise participation in the Canada Winter Games, the trip may be cancelled and deferred until 2028.

Dates:  Late February 2027 – TBD as FIS calendar is announced

Positions:  Up to 3 coaches – 1 lead, 2 assistants

Recommended Requirements:  L2C Trained or Certified

Responsibilities:  

• Lead and/or co-leading a competition group; daily training support, athlete debriefs/goal setting, video analysis
• Attend TCMs and help lead team meetings
• Support local logistics
• Transportation of athletes
• Race service; on-course and wax room support
• Assist in all other areas as required

Wax Technician and Race Service Opportunities

Nordic Junior/U23 World Ski Championships (Otepaa, Estonia)

Dates:  January 9th – 25th, 2027

Positions:  6 wax technicians

Responsibilities:

• Implement wax protocols and procedures
• Ski and wax testing
• Glide wax support
• Kick wax support
• General ski maintenance
• Athlete ski testing support
• Assist in other areas as required

U18 Unofficial World Championships/Scandinavian Race Education-(Scandinavia)

Dates:  Late February 2027 – TBD as FIS calendar is announced

Positions:  2 wax technicians

Responsibilities:  

• Implement wax protocols and procedures
• Ski and wax testing
• Glide wax support
• Kick wax support
• General ski maintenance
• Athlete ski testing support
• Assist in other areas as required

SafeSport

Nordiq Canada’s SafeSport policies require everyone taking part in a Nordiq Canada trip to complete the following SafeSport requirements before departure:

• E-PIC
• 1 reference letter
• SafeSport Application Form
• Screening Disclosure Form
• NCCP Making Ethical Decisions (coaches only)
• CAC (Coaching Association of Canada) SafeSport Training
• Rule of Two online learning – (CAC)
• Driver’s Abstract – required to drive athletes

Requirements do not have be to be completed to apply. Successful application will be emailed instruction on how to complete them.

Expenses

Expenses related to travel, accommodation, food, SafeSport certifications, and approved miscellaneous costs will be covered by Nordiq Canada.

Expense claims must be made using the Nordiq Canada Expense Claim Form which will be provided to successful applicants.

A respected Canadian coach with more than 20 years of experience in athlete and coach development, Manhard joins Nordiq Canada after leading one of the country’s most successful provincial high-performance programs. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for developing athletes, strengthening coaching systems, and creating environments where emerging athletes can thrive.

As Development Coach, Manhard will lead and oversee Nordiq Canada’s Development Team program. The Development Team supports identified athletes who have demonstrated strong potential to transition from junior racing to international excellence. Working closely with athletes, personal coaches, divisions, and integrated support staff, Manhard will lead and deliver a nationally aligned program that prepares Canada’s next generation of high-performance cross-country skiers.

Manhard joins Nordiq Canada from Cross Country BC, where he served as Provincial Coach for more than a decade. In that role, he provided technical leadership for coaches, managed provincial team programs, led domestic and international competitions, and oversaw the implementation of British Columbia’s performance enhancement system. Under his leadership, the province achieved its most successful results in history at the Canada Winter Games and the Canadian National Championships.

His contributions to Canada’s development pathway extend beyond provincial programming. Manhard helped establish and develop the Callaghan Valley Training Centre, which served as a National Development Centre, and has led Canadian teams at multiple World Junior Championships. He has also served as Head Coach and Team Manager for British Columbia at five Canada Winter Games, helping guide generations of athletes through critical stages of their development.

Committed to continuous learning, Manhard combines extensive practical coaching experience with advanced education in high-performance sport. He holds a Master of Science in Kinesiology with a specialization in High Performance Coaching and Technical Leadership from the University of British Columbia, an Advanced Coaching Diploma from the National Coaching Institute, and is a Certified Competition Development Advanced Gradation (Train to Compete) coach and Competition Development Coach Developer.

Throughout his career, Manhard has been recognized for his collaborative leadership, passion for athlete development, and commitment to supporting coaches at every level of the performance pathway.

“I’m honoured to join Nordiq Canada as Development Coach and to work alongside the athletes, coaches, and staff who are shaping the future of Canadian cross-country skiing,” said Manhard. “Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about building strong development environments that help high-performance athletes reach their full potential while supporting the coaches who guide them every day. I’m excited to help lead a program that prepares the next generation of Canadian athletes for success on the international stage and to continue strengthening our development pathways across the country.”

“Chris has dedicated his coaching career to developing Canadian athletes and coaches, and his track record speaks for itself,” said Beckie Scott, CEO of Nordiq Canada. “His leadership of one of Canada’s most successful provincial development programs, his commitment to coach education, and his ability to build environments where athletes can succeed make him an outstanding addition to our high-performance team. We are excited to welcome Chris to Nordiq Canada and look forward to the impact he will have on the next generation of Canadian cross-country skiers.”

Manhard will begin his role as Development Coach on September 1st.

Vatten joins the National Team staff following five seasons as High Performance Coach with the Alberta World Cup Academy (AWCA), where he has been responsible for the Canmore Daily Training Environment, team yearly training plans, and supporting athlete development through to the World Cup and Olympic level. During his time with AWCA, athletes under his guidance have recorded several top-10 finishes at the Olympics and World Cup, a U23 Overall World Cup title, and five individual medals at World Junior/U23 Championships. He has also contributed directly to Nordiq Canada as a trip lead and coach during World Cup periods, World Junior/U23 events and NST training camps.

Prior to relocating to Canada, Vatten held coaching positions in Norway and Iceland, including Head Coach of the junior and senior programs at Kjelsås IL, one of Norway’s top-performing clubs, and Head Coach at Skidafélag Ísfirðinga in Iceland, where he supported the national federation at World Cup, EYOF and FIS camps. He holds a Master’s degree in Sports Pedagogy from the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences and a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology from Nord-Trøndelag University College, and is a Level 3 certified coach with the Norwegian Ski Federation.

Vatten has resided in Canada since 2021 and is currently in the process of obtaining Permanent Resident status, expected by spring 2027.

“I am honoured to take on this role with Nordiq Canada,” said Vatten. “Canada has been my home since 2021, and in that time I’ve come to know this team’s talent and dedication firsthand. My approach to coaching is built on clear communication and creating an environment where athletes can perform at their best, and I’m looking forward to bringing that experience into the role full-time and contributing to what this group can achieve.”

“Tormod has been a trusted and valued member of our extended coaching community for several years, and we’re thrilled to welcome him into this role on a full-time basis,” said Beckie Scott, Chief Executive Officer of Nordiq Canada. “His experience at the World Cup and Olympic level, combined with his education, expertise and strong relationship skills, make him an excellent fit as we build toward the next quad.”

Vatten will work alongside newly appointed Head Coach Stefan Thomson to support training camps and competition periods for the Senior National Ski team athletes, and contribute to the National High-Performance Program.

Photo credit: Graeme Williams

CSS Statement Regarding IOC Decision on the Participation of Russian and Belarusian Athletes

July 9, 2026

Canada Ski & Snowboard (CSS) expresses strong support for the position articulated today by Adam van Koeverden, related to the International Olympic Committee’s decision to reinstate Russian athletes for international competition.

“The countries of Russia and Belarus should not be represented in international sports competitions while Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable full-scale invasion against Ukraine continues.”

CSS has been clear and consistent in its stance in not supporting the participation of Russian or Belarusian athletes, particularly under national flags or as “neutral” individuals, in FIS-sanctioned events, including the Olympic and Paralympic Games, while those states stay actively involved in an illegal war on the country of Ukraine. This position reflects our commitment to peace, human rights, and the integrity of sport, and responds directly to the ongoing war in Ukraine, which continues to inflict profound suffering and constitutes a violation of international law.

CSS remains aligned with a majority of snow sport federations that continue to oppose Russian and Belarusian athlete participation. We also reiterate our concerns related to governance, transparency, and the integrity of anti-doping processes should any reinstatement be considered.

Although sport can provide a beacon towards global understanding and unity, sport does not exist in isolation from global events. Decisions made by international sport bodies carry moral weight and signal the values we collectively uphold. At this moment, CSS believes unity with the Ukrainian people, respecting the rule of international law, and clarity of principle are essential.

CSS will continue to advocate for a position that reflects our values, supports international law, and protects the integrity of competition. We support Secretary van Koeverden in his stated position on this, and encourage the FIS to maintain strong, principled leadership on this issue in the same spirit.

Sincerely,

Beckie Scott, Chair, CEO Nordiq Canada
Dustin Heise, Vice-Chair, CEO Snowboard Canada
Peter Judge, Treasurer, CEO Freestyle Canada
Therese Brisson, Secretary General, CEO Alpine Canada
Drew Edwards, GM Ski Jumping Canada

For questions or comments, please contact: info@nordiqcanada.ca

“I’ve been an avid recreational skier for years, so this sport has always had a place in my life,” said new board member John Rossall. “What I’m really excited to bring to the board is my experience in finance, strategy, and governance. I’ve chaired two non-profit boards and currently sit on the boards of two energy companies, so I’m looking forward to putting that experience to work for Nordiq Canada.”

We’re also proud to share that Morgan Rogers has been re-elected to serve a fourth term as Board Chair, continuing her steady leadership and long-standing commitment to the sport.

Ingrid Otto – Newly appointed to 1-year term

Ingrid Otto has been involved with Nordic skiing for over 40 years, including as a competitor, recreational skier, and as a volunteer coach with the Hollyburn Ski Club. She is looking forward to bringing her passion and commitment to the sport on the Board of Directors.

As a lawyer with a special focus on workplace law and litigation, she brings both legal and risk management expertise. Her areas of practice for the past 30 years have focused on human resources law, including providing strategic advice to clients and ways to mitigate legal and reputational risks. She proudly holds Nordiq Canada License number 4.

John Rossall – Newly elected to 3-year term

John Rossall is a retired engineer and energy industry executive, with a diverse career in engineering and senior executive roles at companies ranging from small start-up ventures to vertically integrated multinationals. He is currently a board director of two large Canadian energy companies. He has also served as Board Chair of two major non-profits. 

A lifelong aerobic endurance athlete, John was a track athlete in his youth before embracing cross-country skiing and cycling after moving west upon completing university. He divides his time between homes in Calgary and Canmore. John holds a B.A.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Waterloo and completed the Program for Management Development at the Harvard Business School.

Re-elected Board Members

Morgan Rogers – Chair 
Re-elected to 3-year term
Canmore Nordic Ski Club, AB

Andrea Poole
Re-elected to 3-year term
Avid recreational skier, ON 

Mark Parsons
Re-elected to 3-year term
Avid recreational skier, AB 

Outgoing Board Members

Nordiq Canada thanks the following outgoing board members for their dedicated service and contributions to the organization.

Katie Weaver
As Athlete Director, Katie played a key role in strengthening athlete voice and engagement at the board level. Nordiq Canada thanks her for championing athletes throughout her term.

Kate Scallion
As an independent director, Kate was a steady advocate for safeguarding initiatives across the organization. Her commitment to keeping members safe has left a lasting impact on the board’s work.

Shawn Leamon
As an independent director, Shawn was a dedicated champion for Divisions, helping ensure their perspectives were represented at the board level. Nordiq Canada is grateful for his contributions.

Full List of Board of Directors

Morgan Rogers
Re-elected Board Chair
Canmore Nordic Ski Club, AB

Andrea Poole
Re-elected Independent Director
Avid recreational skier, ON 

Mark Parsons
Re-elected Independent Director
Avid recreational skier, AB

Ingrid Otto
Newly Appointed Director
Hollyburn Ski Club, BC

John Rossall
Newly Elected Director
Avid recreational skier, AB

Marie-Hélène (M&H) Thibeault
Independent Director
Avid recreational skier, QC

Janet Gates
Independent Director
Avid recreational skier, ON

Anton Scheier
Independent Director
Nakkertok Nordic, ON

Tom Holland
Independent Director
Alberta World Cup Society, AB 

Julian Smith
Athlete Director – Olympic Stream
Georgian Bay Nordic, ON 

Emma Archibald
Athlete Director – Paralympic Stream
Scotia XC Ski Club, NS

Pat Petelle
Division Chairs Council Chair
Montériski, QC

Each year, the Nordiq Canada Awards Committee recognizes individuals whose contributions have shaped the sport at the club, provincial, and national levels. This year’s recipients represent decades of combined service across the country, from British Columbia to Nova Scotia.

Congratulations to the 2026 award recipients.

Dave Rees Award: Jake Weaver

Jake Weaver is a transformative leader whose more than two decades of volunteer service have profoundly shaped cross-country skiing in Canada.

Through his exceptional contributions as a coach, official, and mentor, he has built one of the nation’s leading club programs while helping to develop athletes, coaches, and competition structures at the provincial, national, and international levels.

His leadership of major events, including national championships and world-class competitions, combined with his commitment to athlete development and community building, has left an enduring legacy across the sport.

Widely respected for his integrity, generosity, and unwavering dedication, Jake Weaver is a truly deserving recipient of the Dave Rees Award.

Firth Award: Morna Fraser

For more than two decades, Morna Fraser has dedicated her time, energy and outstanding organizational skills to the Canadian ski community.

Renowned for her quiet diligence and positive attitude, Morna has taken on a variety of key roles to help grow the sport: from the grass roots at her club to helping British Columbia host international races.

As Volunteer Coordinator at Whistler Olympic Park, Morna has recruited, trained and managed large volunteer teams for major events such as the 2025 Invictus Games and the 2023 FIS Jr World/U23 ski competition. She is also a longstanding NCCP Learning Facilitator for Cross Country BC and a valued board member for her club.

Morna’s dedication, professionalism, and collaborative spirit have helped build capacity, elevate standards, and create positive experiences for athletes and volunteers alike, making her a deserving recipient of this year’s Firth Award.

Distinguished Volunteer: Frank Ackerman

Frank Ackermann is a passionate and dedicated volunteer whose contributions have been instrumental in the growth and success of cross-country skiing in Kimberley and beyond.

Over two decades, he has played a central role as a coach, program builder, official, and leader, helping to develop athletes from early grassroots programming through to national and international competition.

His tireless commitment–evident in his work developing club programs, supporting high-performance athletes, and leading major competitions–has strengthened both club and provincial capacity.

Frank’s generosity, humility, and enduring passion for the sport have made a lasting impact on athletes, volunteers, and the broader ski community.

Distinguished Volunteer: Marcus Boyle

Marcus Boyle is a dynamic, tireless and visionary volunteer-leader whose contributions have significantly elevated cross-country skiing at Sovereign Lake Nordic Club and beyond.

As head of the Competitions Committee at Sovereign Lake Nordic Club and a driving force behind the Sovereign2SilverStar Ski Marathon, he has strengthened the club’s capacity to host major regional, national, and international events, while fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration among volunteers.

His hands-on leadership, technical expertise, and relentless commitment have enhanced athlete experiences, generated vital support for club programs, and expanded community impact through initiatives such as charitable partnerships and volunteer development.

Marcus’s energy, innovation, and dedication have left a lasting mark on the sport.

Distinguished Volunteer: Melanie McDermid

Melanie McDermid is recognized as one of the hardest working volunteers in Nova Scotia whose dedication to cross country skiing has benefitted the provincial sport organization, clubs and skiers across the province.

As the organizational backbone of Scotia XC and a key leader at the provincial level, her contributions in administration, program development and strategic planning have helped grow and stabilize the sport at both the grassroots and community levels.

She was instrumental in the development and rollout of the Ambassador program that has introduced newcomers, students and community groups to cross country skiing and continues to serve as a knowledgeable and reliable resource, and provides ongoing guidance and support to coaches, groomers and fellow Board members.

Distinguished Volunteer: Chris Teron

Chris Teron is a dedicated and impactful volunteer whose leadership has played a critical role in the sustainability and growth of cross-country skiing in Canada.

As President of the Canadian Ski Marathon and a long-time hands-on contributor, he has helped guide the organization through significant challenges, strengthening its structure, volunteer base, and overall participant experience.

His ability to combine strategic leadership with active, on-the-ground involvement has ensured the continued success of one of Canada’s most iconic ski events.

Recognized by his peers as someone who can deliver concrete results, Chris embodies the core values of cross-country skiing: commitment, resilience, community spirit and passion for the sport.

Nordiq Canada thanks this year’s award recipients, and the many people across the country whose work keeps the sport moving forward. Congratulations to Jake Weaver, Morna Fraser, Frank Ackerman, Marcus Boyle, Melanie McDermid, and Chris Teron!