In this role, Eric will oversee the strategic direction and delivery of the National High-Performance program, working closely with athletes, coaches, and partners to build on Canada’s strong international results and drive sustained excellence on the world stage.

“I am honoured to have been selected for this role. Canada has achieved outstanding results in recent years across all levels of our system – from World Cup and Olympic performances to strong showings at World Junior and U23 Championships. I look forward to working closely with our athletes, coaches, and staff to build on that momentum, strengthen our development pathway, and translate that success into even greater performances on the world stage in the years ahead.”

Nordiq Canada looks forward to Eric’s leadership as the organization continues to strengthen its high-performance pathway and support athletes in achieving podium performances at World Cups, World Championships, and Olympic Games.

The upcoming season will introduce a premier competition series that brings together the Canadian NorAm circuit and the U.S. Super Tour at two events. The series will open in Canmore, Alta., Dec. 4–6, 2026, before continuing in Lake Placid, N.Y., Jan. 28–30, 2027, site of the FIS World Cup Finals in March 2026. 

“The alignment of both the Canadian and American Continental Cup series twice within one season substantially increases the high-level competition opportunities available on the domestic calendar,” said Jeff Ellis, Nordiq Canada’s Director of Events. “We are continuing discussions with U.S. Ski & Snowboard on how to sustain this series through the next Olympic cycle, with more details to come.” 

The 2026–27 season also marks the return of the NorAm designation for the Continental Cup series, which will feature four primary events: 

• NorAm / Super Tour Series – Dec. 4–6, 2026 | Canmore, Alta.   

• World Junior/U23 Trials, Candy Cane Cup – Dec. 18–21, 2026 | Gatineau, Que. 

• NorAm / Super Tour Series – Jan. 28–30, 2027 | Lake Placid, N.Y.  

• Nordiq Canada Ski Nationals – Mar. 22–28, 2027 | Whistler, B.C. 

In addition to the NorAm series, three Canada Cup events will provide further FIS-level racing opportunities in both eastern and western Canada: 

• Sovereign Invitational – Nov. 27–29, 2026 | Vernon, B.C. 

• Eastern Championships – Feb. 5–7, 2027 | Gatineau, Que.   

• Western Championships – Feb. 12–14, 2027 | Rossland, B.C.    

Due to scheduling conflicts with international championship events, a fourth Canada Cup competition was not possible for the 2026–27 season. 

The calendar will also feature the Canada Winter Games 2027, held in Québec City from Feb. 27 to Mar. 14, 2027. The event will bring together more than 3,500 athletes and coaches from across the country to compete in Canada’s premier multi-sport winter event. Cross-country skiing and Para cross-country skiing competitions will take place during Week 1 (Feb. 28 to Mar. 5). 

Domestic Season Race Calendar

Please note: All race formats are subject to change based on weather, snow conditions, and decisions by Nordiq Canada and local organizing committees. FISU Games selection races will be confirmed at a later date. 

Paralympic Sport Discovery Days will fund athlete identification events, giving individuals with a disability the opportunity to explore Para sport and connect with programs.

Future Paralympians Grant will support athletes and programs already on the pathway, helping drive development and long-term success in Paralympic sport.

These programs build on the success of the CPC’s former Paralympic Sport Development Fund, which invested more than $1.68 million over the past decade to support 175 projects across 110 organizations nationwide.

Eligible applicants include sport organizations at the local, provincial, and national levels, as well as universities, colleges, and sport-based non-profits and charities (eligibility varies by program).

The CPC is hosting a webinar on May 12 from 2:00–3:00 PM ET to review program details and the application process.

Register:
https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/012facae-a633-46da-a68a-8463f2683663@1206eb0d-405f-4dbf-bd8d-ead17f7b2396

Nordiq Canada encourages eligible organizations within the cross-country ski and Para Nordic community to explore these opportunities and consider applying.

Additional details are available through the CPC press release and funding webpage.

We are specifically looking for candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas to help round out the capacity and capability of the Board:

• Fundraising and business development to assist the CEO with achieving a broader set of supporters for the organization
• Financial management and budgeting
• Legal
• Risk Management

Submit your application

If you are interested in applying for the Board position, please submit your application (including cover letter and resume) via this form on or before May 18, 2026 (or email janetvgates@gmail.com with questions). Your cover letter and resume will be included with the AGM Notice to Members.

 
Nordiq Canada is committed to building cross country skiing as a sport that reflects and embraces the diversity of Canada and supports a culture that is equitable, open, welcoming, and inclusive.
 
Indigenous Peoples, members of racialized groups, persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Please submit your application no later than May 18, 2026. Once the nomination period has closed, applicants will be contacted by the Nominations Committee for interviews. Details of the nomination, election process, and the definition of an Independent Director are set out in Nordiq Canada’s by-laws.

Participation in the Nordiq Canada Board requires approximately 5 to 7 hours per month as well as completion of required onboarding, including Safe Sport clearance. Interested parties should also familiarize themselves with some particulars related to how the Nordiq Canada Board operates as a policy board.
 

Thank you for your interest!

About Us

As the official governing body of cross-country and Para nordic skiing in Canada, Nordiq Canada promotes the growth and development of the sport from grass roots to high performance. Our 80,000 members include athletes, coaches, officials and skiers of all ages and abilities. As a national sport organization, we collaborate with provincial/territorial divisions, clubs and others to provide the leadership, support and resources needed for all Canadians to find their own greatness in our sport, whether they ski for fun and fitness, or they aspire to ski for their country.

Our celebrated National Ski Team is made up of superior athletes in the Olympic and Paralympic streams. What does it take for them to be the best? If you ask our athletes, they will tell you it takes hard work, dedication, and focus. As an organization we know Olympic, Paralympic, and World Championship achievements require significant investment in facilities, equipment, training, coaches, technicians, and opportunities to compete at local races and on the world stage. These investments in high performance will trigger success at every level and for every member — from grassroots to podiums. We believe that when athletes succeed, we all succeed.

Dave Rees Award

Awarded to an individual who has made an outstanding long-term commitment to cross-country skiing in Canada. Nominees should have demonstrated leadership over an extended period at all organizational levels, local, regional and national, in various activities.

This is Nordiq Canada’s most prestigious award. Nominees are generally well known in the cross-country ski community and have made a significant impact through their varied contributions to the sport.

Firth Award

Awarded to a woman who has made an outstanding contribution to cross-country skiing in Canada. Nominees should have demonstrated leadership in activities at the local or regional level, and ideally also at the national level. They have contributed to cross-country skiing in ways that have encouraged and influenced others.

Developed to specifically recognize dedicated women who have contributed to cross-country skiing at the club, district, provincial or national level.

Distinguished Volunteer Award

Awarded to individuals who have made a significant contribution to cross-country skiing at the local, regional or national level.

Nominees may have distinguished themselves in any number of ways: through a single contribution that has made a significant impact, through longstanding behind-the-scenes volunteerism or as a volunteer leader or builder at the local, provincial or national level.

Nomination Form (click to view)

Nominations are due May 20.   

Associate Coach – National Ski Team Program (Para Nordic)

Location: Canada

About Nordiq Canada

Nordiq Canada is the national governing body for both cross-country skiing and Para cross-country skiing, and provides leadership for Para biathlon in Canada. We lead, support, and inspire world-class performances and lifelong participation in these sports nationwide.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the High-Performance Manager (HPM) and working closely with the Head Coach, National Ski Team Program, the Associate Coach plays a key role in executing the vision for Nordiq Canada’s Para Nordic Senior and NextGen programs.

This position contributes directly to achieving podium performances at World Cups, World Championships, and Paralympic Winter Games – while fostering a high-performance environment aligned with program values and a strong ‘One Team’ culture.

Key Responsibilities

High-Performance Leadership, Planning & Execution

• In collaboration with the Head Coach, help drive a culture of excellence by establishing clear standards, expectations, and accountability aligned with program values.
• Foster a world-class, athlete-centered environment that is healthy, safe, and performance-driven – while embracing a ‘One Team’ approach that values and supports all athletes and staff equally.
• Lead the technical and tactical development of biathlon shooting performance across training and competition environments, while supporting overall athlete performance and prioritizing health, wellness, and safety.
• Oversee all aspects of Para biathlon equipment (including shooting systems and ammunition), ensuring compliance with licensing, transport, and safety requirements.
• Contribute to the planning and delivery of the Yearly Training Plan (YTP) in collaboration with the Head Coach and Integrated Support Team (IST), aligned with Gold Medal Profiles (GMP).
• Collaborate with athletes and staff to develop, monitor, and evolve Individual Athlete Performance Plans (IAPPs) throughout the season.
• Support the development of program policies, selection criteria, budgets, and annual/quadrennial plans, including contributions to Own the Podium and Sport Canada reviews.
• Support the Para Nordic development pathway by collaborating with the Development Coach on coach and athlete development initiatives from club level to the National Team.
• Play a leadership role in strengthening collaboration and alignment with Biathlon Canada.
• Contribute to research and innovation initiatives and represent Nordiq Canada within Para biathlon working groups where appropriate.
• Support annual equipment planning, budgeting, and maintenance in collaboration with the HPM.
• Contribute broadly to Nordiq Canada initiatives to ensure the success and integration of Para Nordic programs.

Skills & Competencies

• Proven ability to inspire, align, and lead diverse stakeholders through clear communication and strong leadership.
• Highly organized, with the ability to translate strategy into actionable plans and solutions.
• Strong relationship-builder who brings energy, positivity, and consistent engagement with athletes and staff.
• Effective collaborator within an integrated, interdisciplinary high-performance environment.
• Demonstrates professionalism aligned with Nordiq Canada values: excellence, integrity, inclusion, respect, transparency, and accountability.
• Committed to continuous learning, self-reflection, and professional growth.

Requirements

• Demonstrated expertise in Para Nordic skiing and Para biathlon across training and competition environments.
• NCCP Level 4 (or equivalent) with CDAG training, or Level 5 certification (or equivalent).
• Experience working with Para athletes, including knowledge of classifications, adapted equipment, and IPC rules.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and support athletes and coaches within a high-performance system.
• Strong understanding of the Canadian sport system and the Paralympic high-performance environment.
• Bilingualism (French/English) is considered an asset.

Working Conditions

• Evening and weekend work required
• Regular outdoor work, including on snow
• Extensive domestic and international travel

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter to:
mstarkman@nordiqcanada.ca

Application deadline: May 1, 2026, or until position is filled.

Please include your name and “Associate Coach – National Team Program (Para Nordic)” in the subject line.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Nordiq Canada is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. Preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

Click here to learn more and apply

We are blown away by how many talented skiers there are across Canada, and narrowing it down to one design was no easy feat. Thank you to everyone who submitted a design to this year’s contest!

A three-time Paralympian, Wilkie has captured four medals at these Games – gold in the Para biathlon women’s standing individual and sprint pursuit, silver in the Para biathlon women’s standing sprint, and bronze in the Para cross-country women’s standing sprint classic. She still has one race remaining on Sunday morning, the Para cross-country 20km.

Wilkie, age 25, now has 11 Paralympic medals to her name (five gold, three silvers, three bronze). She is the first Canadian athlete to be selected to be both Opening and Closing Ceremony flag bearer at the same Paralympic Games.

“That was a big surprise, and I said that about being named the Opening flag bearer, but I am shocked once again,” said Wilkie. “It just feels unreal right now because I don’t think there has been a Canadian athlete who has been named in one Games as opening and closing flag bearer, so to be the first definitely feels like I’m setting history. I’m really excited.”

“This has been a really special Games for me. It has been a really emotional Games for myself and a lot of my teammates so it’s going to be a really great way to end the Games. To be able to wave the flag physically and walk is going to be a pretty cool experience. I couldn’t think of a better way to end my third Games.”

At his fourth Paralympic Winter Games, Ideson skipped Canada to its first gold medal since 2014, becoming the first nation to ever complete the tournament undefeated. Ideson, age 49, threw the critical last shots for Canada that secured their semifinal and final victories against South Korea and China. Skip of the team since 2018, he made his Paralympic debut in 2014 and now has two gold and two bronze medals.

“It’s an honour I never thought I would get and one that I’m truly grateful for,” said Ideson. “The biggest honour I could ever imagine.”

“It’s really hard to sum up this whole week,” said Ideson on winning gold and now being named flag bearer. “This is the culmination of a lot of hard work from a great group of people. We have the best team and the best staff and compete for the best country. I am incredibly proud and honoured to have been part of this whole journey.”

“I am so excited for both Natalie and Mark to receive this honour,” said Mac Marcoux, honorary captain, Milano Cortina 2026 Canadian Paralympic Team. “It has been incredible to watch both of them compete here at the Games. Their performances this week speak for themselves – they have added to their already so impressive Paralympic legacies. They are also such great leaders in their sports and for Paralympic sport in Canada, and I can’t wait to watch them carry the flag.”

“Congratulations to Natalie and Mark on being named Closing Ceremony flag bearers,” said Catherine Gosselin-Despres, Chief Sport Officer, Canadian Paralympic Committee. “They both have accomplished so much here at the Games, and it has been a thrill to watch their competitions all week as they led Canada on the field of play. We know they will represent the country with great pride as we celebrate their achievements and those of the entire Canadian Paralympic Team at the Closing Ceremony.”

Canadian viewers can watch Wilkie and Ideson carry the flag for the Canadian Paralympic Team with Closing Ceremony coverage beginning live Sunday on CBC and Radio-Canada at 3 p.m. ET.

About the Canadian Paralympic Team: A total of 50 athletes, including guides, are competing for Canada in six sports at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, taking place March 6-15.

About the Canadian Paralympic Committee: Paralympic.ca

MEDIA CONTACTS
Nicole Watts
Canadian Paralympic Team Communications Lead
nwatts@paralympic.ca / 613-462-2700 (WhatsApp)

Nathaniel Mah
Media Attaché, Para Nordic Skiing
nmah@nordiqcanada.ca / 403-700-4927 (WhatsApp)

Larissa Simone
Media Attaché, Wheelchair Curling
larissa.simone@curling.ca / 365-340-4833 (WhatsApp)