Well, we are definitely winding down now, but oh what a season! And this month in February and March, CSIA Ontario members were able to celebrate some fantastic events…
The High Performance Women’s Days, February 18 and 19 at Craigleith Ski Club
HPWD 2026 was a total riot! Day 1 saw us surfing through a literal snow globe, turning tactical powder and “blind” conditions into a masterclass in grit. Day 2 delivered crisp clarity- the ultimate playground for high-octane laps and self-discovery. Our Level 4 dream team was on fire, guiding us through technical breakthroughs with world class precision. The energy was untouchable, fueled by Craigleith’s fantastic hospitality and our legendary sponsors. Their generosity ensured our prize table was overflowing and nobody left empty handed! Whether navigating deep powder or carving corduroy, we proved that high performance is better together!
The following is a testimonial from one of our HPWD 2026 participants – Julie Fyfe:
“HPWD at Craigleith was an inspiring experience that centered on the power of community. The day was defined by a palpable sense of camaraderie, where instructors exchanged stories and support, proving that mentorship flows naturally when we create intentional spaces for collaboration.
The skiing itself provided a profound lesson in adaptability, Rather than fighting the elements, we allowed the mountain to be our teacher, as we practiced resilience as conditions shifted. Our Course Conductors pushed us beyond our comfort zones, reminding me that growth resides in that space of uncertainty. This was not about achieving perfection, but about the willingness to adjust and keep moving forward.
Most impactful was the vulnerability of our Level 4 Course Conductors. By sharing their own learning journeys with honesty and humility, they made the pathway to higher certification feel tangible and welcoming. Seeing strong women lead and uplift one another has deepened my commitment to my professional development within the CSIA. I am leaving this HPWD not just a better skier, but a more confident professional, grateful for a network that celebrates our collective ambitions, and proves that when women lead, the entire community grows stronger.”
HPWD 2026 photo courtesy of Monica Costa
The Snow School Directors Ski Day, March 3, 2026
CSIA Ontario hosted an outstanding event – the Snow School Director’s Day (SSD) on March 3rd at Blue Mountain, attended by 40 snow school directors and senior supervisors. The morning sessions on the snow were engaging and meaningful, featuring Nigel Loring (CSIA Managing Director) on soft skills, Jason Young (Products and Education Manager) on Interski, and James Scott (Ontario Education Program Coordinator) on the value of helping teams level up with focusing on Level 3.
The afternoon presentations sparked rich conversation and community bonding. Blue Mountain Assistant Manager, Snow School Training & Programming, Catherine Powell’s presentation on CSIA Ontario grants was particularly impactful. Nigel and James provided insightful sessions, with James’s “Level 3 – Raising the Ceiling” presentation adding a lighthearted touch to the day. As a long-standing tradition for CSIA Ontario, Jason said, “The SSD Day highlighted that our snow schools are truly at the heart of what we do. They’re where new skiers fall in love with the sport, where instructors grow their skills, and where our community comes together.”
Directors’ Day Photo courtesy, Diana Deakin-Thomas
Directors’ Day Photo courtesy, Michael Harrison
The CSIA Ontario Fun Days (2) at Calabogie Peaks and at Osler Bluff Ski Club, March 22, 2026
CSIA Ontario Fun Day in Collingwood at Osler Bluff Ski Club was an absolute blast—and what an incredible host club! With over 500 CSIA members and guests in attendance, the energy on the hill was off the charts from first chair to last.
One of the biggest highlights? On-snow sessions where more than 300 members got the chance to ski with Course Conductors. Even better, we had two Mandarin-speaking Course Conductors on hand, which was a huge hit and added an awesome inclusive vibe to the day.
The battle for the legendary Golden Ski was next-level this year. Teams brought their A-game, but the Ski Bees stole the show—bringing unbeatable energy, amazing outfits, and music that had everyone buzzing. A well-earned win!
And let’s not forget the Tug-of-War—over 50 members digging in, laughing, and battling it out. Safe to say there are going to be a few sore muscles (and great stories) the next day!
As the last chair slowed and the slopes went quiet, the party kept going indoors for après-ski. With draw prizes, lots of laughs, and the Ball Drop announcement, the evening wrapped up by raising around $700 for Ontario Track 3 Adaptive Sports Association -an awesome way to give back.
Over 100 draw prizes were given out to the members – special thanks go out to Rossignol and KOLL
All in all, an unforgettable day packed with great skiing, great people, and non-stop fun. Can’t wait to do it all again next year!
Osler Fun Day Photos courtesy of Diana Deakin-Thomas and Michael Harrison
CSIA Ontario Fun Day at Calabogie Peaks was a resounding success, with over 80 CSIA members and guests attending. We couldn’t have asked for better conditions, as the great snow provided a perfect canvas for the day’s activities. The feedback from the membership has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding the high participation in our various ski improvement sessions. A standout addition this year was the inaugural Mandarin ski improvement session; it generated significant interest right out of the gate, even drawing in one participant who didn’t speak any Mandarin but was eager to join the group’s energy and technical focus.
The day reached an exciting conclusion with the synchro run, where five spirited teams took to the slopes to compete for the prestigious Golden Ski – won this year by Calabogie Snow School! It was the perfect ending to the event, showcasing not just technical precision but a fantastic sense of teamwork and fun. Between the high engagement in the morning clinics and the competitive thrill of the afternoon runs, the event successfully strengthened our community and set a high bar for future regional gatherings.
Calabogie photos courtesy of Mingbo Ji
And finally… Hold the date !
Our CSIA Ontario Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Awards Banquet are all set for Friday, September 18 at beautiful Hockley Valley Resort. Hold that date and place, and we look forward to seeing as many of you as possible to both celebrate a fantastic ski season and Award recipients, and plan for yet another great season.