1. travel
2. tourist destinations
3. canada

CADS
Canadian Association for Disabled
Skiing
Annual Report
2014-2015
Mission and Vision
Vision:
CADS is the National and an International leader in alpine adaptive snowsports.
CADS est le chef de file national et international en sports alpins adaptés
Mission:
CADS fosters the development and delivery of best practices through
partnerships, leadership, training, and certification so individuals with a disability have
the opportunity for healthy recreation and competition in alpine adaptive snow sports.
CADS *développe et mets en place les meilleures pratiques afin de crée l’opportunité
pour les toutes personnes vivant en situation de handicap, d’accéder aux sports de
compétitions et de loisirs alpins adaptés, par des partenariats, du leadership et une
certification avec des programmes de formation spécialisés.
2
Table of Contents
Message from the President
Page 4
Executive Directors Report
Page 5
Technical Committee Report
Page 7
BC Adaptive Snowsports
Page 9
Saskatchewan Report
Page 10
Ontario Report
Page 11
National Capital Division Report
Page 12
Quebec Report
Page 16
New Brunswick Report
Page 17
Nova Scotia Report
Page 19
Newfoundland/Labrador Report
Page 20
3
President’s Report to the 2015 AGM
CADS has experienced another great year of growth and
program development.
We have, however, had to say farewell to two of our founding
members; Henry Wohler and Al Matile. Henry passed away
recently in Montreal. Henry was President of CADS for 11 years
demonstrating strong leadership and advocating for people
with disabilities in the world of snowsports. Henry was also an
active board member of the CPC (Canadian Paralympic
Committee) and the ALA (Active Living Alliance). He was a long
serving board member and President of CADS Quebec in
addition to being the founding member of the Richard Lemieux
Foundation which implemented the Laurentian Adaptive Ski
Program. Al Matile passed away in Calgary. Al was also
President of CADS for many years, in addition to being
President of CADS Alberta. Al was the CADS National team
manager for many years, a CADS representative on the Alpine
Canada board, in addition to CADS representative to the
Binnion Foundation. Both Henry and Al were truly passionate
men who believed whole heartedly in providing opportunities
for people with disabilities. We will truly miss Henry and Al, and send our sincere condolences to their families.
The CADS board and committees have been extremely active on your behalf with the development of the CADS
Instructor Manual, the revised Articles of Continuance and bylaws, updating of policies, and working to present a
fabulous CADS Festival in Mont Sainte Anne, Quebec.
The Board continued to evaluate and redefine the strategic plan and as such presented a revised Mission and Vision
statement at their strategic planning meeting, May 2015. This is presented on the second page of this Annual Report.
The CADS Technical Committee along with CADS Level 3 and 4 examiners presented two successful pre-courses; Calgary,
COP, and Calabogie in Ottawa, where the CADS manual was presented. The CADS TC worked astounding hours of
writing, editing, re-writing, consultations, more writing, and further editing to present the manual. The TC continues to
work on the remaining chapters with a goal of completion this spring. The TC welcomes feedback and continues to
revise the content and structure of the pre-courses.
I would like to extend appreciation to the volunteer CADS Board and the CADS Division Representatives for working
together as a team in pursuing the on-going development of CADS as the go-to organisation for adaptive snowsports in
Canada. In addition to this group, the success of CADS is without question a result of the tremendous hours, dedication,
and commitment of all CADS volunteers across Canada.
I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the tremendous work that Maureen O Hara-Leman, Executive Director
accomplishes from her small home office. Additional appreciation is extended to Deanna Barry who assists Maureen
and the TC on a part-time seasonal basis. Immense thanks to you ladies.
Thank you CADS members for all that you do, and all that you commit to this great organization!
Warm regards,
Susan Hughes, President, CADS
4
2015 Executive Directors Report
It has been another very busy year in the Executive Director’s office with all the new projects that were underway with
regards to the production of the New CADS Manual and the revamp of the Certification system. The Technical
Committee and other Senior CADS instructors have worked long volunteer hours all winter to move the project forward
and in the end CADS will be a more progressive and professional organization as a result of their commitment.
All of the Certification courses were well organized by the course conductors and the support from Deanna Barry has
kept the website up to date and all of the courses recorded in a timely manner. She has also ensured that all of the
successful candidates are updated in the Instructor Certification spreadsheet. This very important aspect of our
organization needs to be reviewed and assessed and a project implemented to move it towards a more professional
reliable system. The course registration needs to run more like the CSIA’s and the CSCF’s with online, web based
registration available and a proper data base to record and track all the data. A project for the summer I suppose for the
Executive Director!!
One very encouraging number for this year to date is the National Membership revenue number. As or the end of
February we have $99,925 as our membership revenue. This compares to $83,495 in 2013-14, a 20% increase and it is
more that the final total last year of $97,300. Some of this might be due to timing but we carry on registering members
through March and April so I believe at the end we could possibly see an increase of around 12% this year. And this is in
spite of less than the ski friendly weather that we have experienced across the country with lack of snow and warm
weather in the west, too much snow and too many storms in the Maritimes, and freezing cold weather in the middle!!
The membership distribution among the Divisions is indicated on the chart below.
2014-15 National Membership Distribution
Alberta
BC
Manitoba
0%6%1%
10%
23%
NCD
4%
1%
2%
New Brunswick
12%
Nova Scotia
Newfoundland
0%
41%
Ontario
PEI
Quebec
Saskachewan
British Columbia
Alberta
NCD
Ontario
Quebec
1474
816
449
378
216
40.7%
22.5%
12.4%
10.4%
6.0%
Nova Scotia
131
3.6%
New Brunswick
81
2.2%
Saskatchewan
44
1.2%
Newfoundland
32
0.91%
Manitoba
2
0.06%
PEI
1
0.03%
As we move into Festival week, we have a very well subscribed Festival and given the wired weather we have had this
winter it appears that the Board of Directors made the perfect choice to have it in Mon-Saint-Anne, Quebec!!
Thanks to everyone for their hard work to make their individual programs run so well. Looking forward to seeing you at
2015 Festival and all the best for the rest of the season.
Maureen,
Maureen O’Hara-Leman
5
2015 CADS Technical Committee
Rapport annuel du comité technique de CADS – 2015
(English follows the French)
Introduction :
Le comité technique (CT) s’est rencontré 15 fois depuis le festival de Kimberley en 2014 et ces rencontres ont
principalement eu lieu par téléconférence. Ainsi, la saison 2014-2015 se distingue par une contribution significative aux
travaux débutés par le précédent comité technique et sera certainement gravée dans notre mémoire comme étant une
année de changements. Un effort très important a été réalisé pour offrir la première version mise à jour du manuel,
modifier la structure du précourse et créer un nouveau module de formation pour les formateurs. Le CT est d’avis que
ces changements étaient nécessaires et sont en liens avec les besoins de CADS, les besoins des personnes vivant en
situation de handicap pratiquant un sport alpin et finalement avec les liens de plus en plus présent avec notre partenaire
l’alliance des moniteurs de ski du Canada (AMSC).
Le manuel :
Le manuel a vu une mise à jour complète des chapitres suivants : Ski pour les personnes ayant une déficience visuelle;
Ski pour les personnes vivant avec une amputation (3 pistes), Ski pour les personnes nécessitant quatre points d’appui (4
pistes) et ski pour les personnes utilisant un Sitski. Ces nouveaux chapitres sont actuellement utilisés dans toutes les
formations canadiennes et le CT a reçu des commentaires extrêmement positifs. De plus, depuis l'automne 2014, des
communications multiples ont eu lieu entre le CT et les formateurs / moniteurs utilisant ce matériel, suggérant ainsi des
pistes d'amélioration du contenu de ces chapitres et la version finale sera présentée au précourses 2015.
Précourse de l’est et de l’ouest :
Le CT a modifié la forme du précourse en instituant un module de formation des formateurs. L’objectif étant de mieux
préparer les formateurs CADS à livrer le contenu des formations en réalisant avec ces derniers des ateliers dirigés dans
lesquels la pédagogie, l’évaluation des habiletés, l’enseignement et des éléments de sécurité sont présentés. De plus, les
formateurs deviennent ainsi les principaux acteurs de cette formation ce qui permet de lier la théorie à la pratique. Le
CT est conscient de l’étalement démographique des formateurs CADS, des besoins des programmes en formation
continue. Immédiatement après le précourse 2014, les membres du CT ont entrepris plusieurs tâches, incluant l’écriture
de quatre nouveaux chapitres couvrant le spectre de l’autisme, la déficience cognitive, la planche à neige et les aides
techniques. Deux des quatre chapitres seront présentés pendant le festival et feront l’objet d’un banc d’essai.
La certification :
Le CT reconnait la demande grandissante des moniteurs et monitrices de renouveler notre système de certification afin
de mieux s’arrimer avec le contenu actuel des nouveaux chapitres et s’y attardera d’ici le pré-course 2015. Les
moniteurs, monitrices et les formateurs de CADS seront tous tenus informés des progrès de ces travaux sur une base
régulière pendant l’été.
Conclusion :
En conclusion, au nom de tout le comité technique, je souhaite reconnaitre l’énorme support des membres de CADS qui
bien que n’étant pas membre du CT ont énormément contribué avec leurs expériences aux avancés des travaux en cours
dont la révision du manuel et des chapitres, en participant à de multiples discussions sur les possibles voies à suivre
concernant la formation et la certification sans oublier le principal centre d’intérêt soit le client!
Un nombre possiblement trop important d’heures ont été utilisées par les membres du CT pour écrire des règlements et
procédures, réaliser une revue de la littérature concernant les meilleures pratiques, analyser les multiples commentaires
et suggestions des participants pendant les deux précourses et participer à plusieurs sous-comités. Je souhaite
reconnaitre le travail et les efforts des membres antérieurs du CT de CADS qui ont permis par leurs actions de nous
mener jusqu’ici.
Immédiatement après le festival 2015, des mises à jour seront envoyées régulièrement aux formateurs et aux directeurs
de division afin de préparer chacun sur les changements qui s’appliqueront à la certification dès la saison 2015-2016 et
qui seront présentés lors du précourse 2015.
6
Tous ces changements visent et maintiennent un seul objectif soit celui d’offrir aux personnes vivant en situation de
handicap la meilleure formation possible en ski ou en planche à neige. Plus encore, cette nouvelle pratique encadre avec
un contenu plus clair les moniteurs et monitrices, assure aux formateurs une formation mieux adaptée et plus claires,
permet d’atteindre l’uniformité essentielle concernant l’entrainement, la formation, l’enseignement et la certification.
Finalement, cette nouvelle pratique est en lien direct avec la mission de CADS qui développe et mets en place les
meilleures pratiques afin de créer l’opportunité pour les toutes personnes vivant en situation de handicap, d’accéder
aux sports de compétitions et de loisirs alpins adaptés, par des partenariats, du leadership et une certification avec des
programmes de formation spécialisés.
Respectueusement,
Tommy Chevrette, pour le comité technique de CADS.
Introduction:
The Technical Committee (TC) has met fifteen times since the last Festival; these meetings have mostly been by
teleconference. I am pleased to report that the 2014-2015 ski season marked a very significant continuation of the work
undertaken by the previous TC and will be remembered as one of major change. Huge strides were made in developing
a workable draft manual, reforming the Pre Courses and establishing Course Conductor Standards. The TC feels that
these changes are timely in view of the needs of the association, the disabled skiing community and the emerging links
with the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance (CSIA).
The Manual:
The following new chapters have been completed: Visual Impairment, 3 Track, 4 Track and Sitski. These chapters are
now in use across the country and the feedback the TC has received has been extremely positive. In addition there has
been continued commentary from Course Conductors and Instructors that will be incorporated into the next version to
be presented at the 2015 Pre Courses.
Pre Courses East and West:
The CADS TC has modified the format of the Pre Courses by instituting a Course Conductor Module. The aim of this
module is to better prepare each Course Conductor to use the new material, including the newly designed sections on;
assessment (AOT), equipment, pedagogy and safety. Another benefit of the new Course Conductor Module has been to
increase the number of experienced instructors who can help disseminate the changes in standards and methodology.
The TC is also very conscious of the demographics of the instructor cadre in the association and the associated need for
continual renewal, refreshment and process improvement. Immediately following the 2014 Pre Courses, the TC
members undertook several new tasks, including writing four totally new chapters covering Autism, Cognitive
impairment, Snowboarding and Teaching Aids. Of these four new chapters two will be presented and field tested during
the 2015 Festival at Mont-Ste Anne.
Certification:
The TC recognizes that there is an expressed need by the instructor group for a review of the Certification system
currently in place to ensure a seamless fit between the contents of the new manual and the levels of certification and
will be addressing this in preparation for the 2015 Pre Courses. The CADS instructor community including Course
Conductor will be kept apprized of the progress of this work on a regular basis over the summer.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, on behalf of the entire committee, I wish to recognize the enormous support of the dedicated and
experienced CADS members who, while not on the committee, have contributed so much to the TC’s work, including the
7
revision of the manual, dialogue on all related issues and commentary on paths forward for the benefit of not only the
association itself, but particularly, the clients.
Uncounted hours have been put in by the TC members drafting policy and working papers, reviewing literature and
documented best practices, analyzing Pre Course attendee’s commentary and survey results and holding subcommittee
meetings to refine and improve the product. I would also like to recognize the work and efforts of all past TC members
whose dedication over the years has made possible the accomplishments of the committee.
Starting immediately after the 2015 Festival, Course Conductors and Division Reps will be getting regular updates about
the upcoming certification change project that will be put in place at the 2015 Pre Courses.
All these changes have only one single objective: to offer the best possible adapted snow sport experience to disabled
individuals. This will be accomplished by assisting every ski instructor to teach with a better and deeper understanding
of skiing skills, helping every Course Conductor to better train the ski instructor in how to teach, and achieving greater
consistency in the teaching and in the certification process nationwide. Finally, we believe this is directly in line with the
CADS Mission which fosters the development and delivery of best practices through partnerships, leadership,
training and certification so that individuals with a disability have the opportunity for healthy recreation and
competition in alpine adaptive snow sports.
Respectfully submitted:
Tommy Chevrette, on behalf of the Technical Committee.
8
2015 Division Report: BC Adaptive Snowsports
Report Completed by:
Wayne Leslie, Executive Director
Important Activities of the past season:
(1) Inaugural Black Diamond Gala fundraiser. (2) New provincial coaching staff structure. (3) Redevelopment of
Building Our Best race camp program. (4) 2015 Canada Winter Games – Prince George
Notable Successes of the past season:
(1) Black Diamond Gala raised more than $78,000 and created significant media coverage and public awareness in
September. 185 guests were treated to an evening of good food, live music, dancing and auctions at the historic
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. At one point during the lead up to the event, a television interview with Honorary
Gala Chair Lauren Woolstencroft generated so much interest the BCAS website nearly crashed due to a huge
spike in visits.
(2) Review and re-structuring of provincial high performance program with a new, full time provincial head coach
position and a part-time assistant provincial coach position created to oversee both the Building our Best and BC
Para-Alpine ski team programs. The BC Para-Alpine Ski Team program was re-located from Whistler to Vernon to
improve cost effectiveness and training opportunities. The result was significant improvements from senior,
development and prospect athletes. Time on snow has been good and this season especially, one of the
advantages to having the program located in the interior. Athletes are also being provided with an increased
amount of gym training as part of a more holistic training program.
(3) Introduction of Building Our Best race camps with a completely revised format designed to improve the
program’s suitability not just for those with para-alpine aspirations but participants with a more recreational
focus. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive with many comments in post event surveys remarking they were
the best organized and most enjoyable camps they had ever attended.
(4) Canada Winter Games in Prince George were a great success for our para-alpine program as our athletes
captured medals. Mel Pemble from Victoria took home a gold and silver while teammate Mark Robertson from
Vancouver picked up silver and Chelaine McInroy from Armstrong earned a top 5 finish. Quesnel native Landon
McGauley was unfortunately removed from competition after sustaining a concussion during a practice run; a
great disappointment for Landon who was looking forward to competition in front of a home crowd.
Significant Challenges of the past season:
In a word – WEATHER. Unseasonably warm weather blanketed the South Coast for much of the season and except for a
short period leading up to Christmas, played havoc with ski conditions at mountains in the Vancouver area and for a
period even in Whistler where snow levels were well below normal. Hardest hit was Vancouver Adaptive Snowsports
which saw much of its programming come to an end by February. Interior resorts were able to hang onto early season
snow but also suffered from a lack of fresh snow on any kind of a regular basis.
Number of active programs, students, and volunteers in the division.
Programs: 13
Whistler Adaptive Sports Program
Vancouver Island Society for Adaptive Snowsports
9
Vancouver Adaptive Snow Sports
Panorama Adaptive Snow Sports
Revelstoke Adaptive Snow Sports
Silver Star Adaptive Snow Sports
Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks
Northern Adaptive Sports Program (Smithers)
East Kootenay Adaptive Snowsports (Kimberley)
Fernie Adaptive Snow Sports
Red Mountain
Powder Hounds (Kelowna)
Caledonia Adaptive Snow Sports (Prince George)
Students: 612
Volunteers: 760
2015 Division Report: CADS-Saskatchewan
Report Completed by: Murray Bedel
Important Activities of the past season
 2 male para-alpine (sitski + visual class) represented SASKI at Canada Winter Games.

Courses conducted : 5 annual Refresher Courses + 2 CADS Level 1 Courses.

One remaining course (plan for Level CADS 3) still outstanding.

More CSIA and CASI instructors becoming CADS Instructors ; coaches are also interested.
Notable Successes of the past season:
 New families with children with disabilities are getting involved

More family members getting involved in organizational activities.
Significant Challenges of the past season:
 SASKI in disagreement with the rush To implement new goals of CADS
 Disorganized communication from TC and Board about these new goals.
 If CADS implements the new standards SASKI will lose our remaining Level 3 and many volunteers No Board
members acknowledging our divisional voice from SASKI :
 Our input unwelcome, Mission of CADS going backward instead of forward. Our grant from Canadian
Paralympic Committee to train Level 3's is jeopardized because CADS not cooperating to facilitate the training
Number of active programs, students, and volunteers in the division.
 One continuing local program

one new local program

Provincial Adaptive Equipment Network which works with all provincial school boards. Local programs : 15
10
members.

Provincial Network: 47. Volunteers : 30.

Season not over yet.
Additional Comments
Sincere condolences to the Divisions and family/friends that are dealing with the loss of Henry Wohler & Al Matile.
2014 Division Report: CADS-Ontario
Report Completed by:
Carl A Hennum
Important Activities of the past season:
Updating of CADS Ontario Web site. Leadership and guidance for each program in the electronic registration process.
Publication of Newsletters, electronically transmitted to individual members. Organization of inter-program Ski Day,
including participation by Track3. Establishment of a Communications Committee.
Notable Successes of the past season:
Substantially higher participation in electronic registrations. Higher quantity and quality in communications between
Board and members (students and volunteers). Notable participation and support for Ski Day and SCI Ontario Day.
Establishment of “Ambassador” position to improve 2-way communication between Board and respective programs.
Significant Challenges of the past season:
Co-ordinating the schedules of Board members and program contacts for stronger participation in monthly meetings.
(Have resorted to teleconferences to achieve some degree of participation).
Finding time to accomplish substantial improvements and identified new initiatives. Implementation of improved
communications processes.
11
2015 Division Report: National Capital Division
CALABOGIE-CAMP FORTUNE-CASCADES-EDELWEISS-PAKENHAM
As last year I am going to let you read the end of season reports received and some other highlights of the season past.
I would like to thank all our Program Coordinators for all their hard work and another great season.
Honorable mention goes out to our Black Diamond and Race Team, Technical Committee, Winter Sports Clinic, Bingo
Organizers, OCTC Day, Community Living Day, Spring Bus Trip Crew and our Great Pumpkin Charity Ball.
Congratulations to Annette Cousens, National Instructor of the Year - Mount Pakenham
Again my thanks to a wonderful Board of Directors who together gives their precious volunteer time to make this all
happen year in and year out.
Calabogie Peaks
1. Skier Forecast:
Recognizing that sit-skiers require 2 experienced volunteers with tethering training and more sit ski equipment, it
was agreed that all new registrants would be placed on a waiting list until we can determine volunteer and
equipment capabilities. 45-50 disabled skiers are forecast for the upcoming season requiring approximately 70-80
volunteers. These numbers reflect existing capacity of the Calabogie Sunday program.
2. Volunteer Training:
 It was agreed that more emphasis would be placed on tethering training and individual
 Volunteer ski improvement. This season, we will try to hold a 5 week ski improvement
 Program on Wednesday or Thursday evenings at Mount Pakenham. Clay will contact Keith Blimkie and Phil
Cassidy to see if they will lead these sessions.
 It was agreed a TA coordinator is required for our younger volunteers. Deb Blimkie
 Coordinated some of this in the past season. Coordinator to be determined.
 Further emphasis in Volunteer Training sessions is required regarding communications with student skiers.
3. Skier Development: Dan Fleming noted that a number of our skiers had improved this past year and that a more
structured approach to skier development would prove beneficial. Clay and Dan will take this on as an action item.
4. Administration:
 Deb Blimkie is the Calabogie representative on the CADS-NCD website project that is reviewing our existing
Division website with the objective of a new design.
 Clay noted that under the new design, Management Team member’s duties and responsibilities may have to be
defined (3 or 4 points).
5. Banquet:
 Bernie stated that a better method of control of our forecasted number of banquet attendees was required. We
had to set up for approximately an additional 25 people who had not pre-registered to attend. He will institute
a ticket approach this coming season.
6. Equipment Room:
 Needs to be painted and a coat rack added (perhaps behind the door). Phil is prime.
 Raymond noted that a lockable ski rack would be used in front of our equipment room
 Next season. Clay will follow-up with Paul Murphy.
7. Calabogie Patron Appreciation:
 All agreed on regarding the positive feedback that the hot cider and cookies generated.
 We will co-ordinate with the Peaks to establish this PR program again this season. Clay and Bernie are prime.
8. Misc.
 We had purchased a Go-pro camera. Clay will follow-up with Alec Runge and Irene Gilmour to determine where
it is.
 Raymond requested a copy of PDF writer.
12
BOB GILMOUR R.I.P.
I believe I mentioned that a little bit of Bob was left at the Magnetic North Pole thanks to Bjarne Neilson an injured
soldier, a friend of Bob's, one of the first soldier in Ottawa to get the Bartlett leg, a "sport" leg that Bob was introduced
to at an US Winter Sport Clinic the year he couldn't ski because of his hamstring injury.....B was part of the Pole
expedition this past April thanks True Patriot Love Foundation and Canadian Businesses.....there is a documentary done
from this expedition which will be aired Nov11th at 9pm (Ottawa time) on the history channel (channel 249).....you will
have to watch to the very end to hear B talk about Bob and see a picture of Bob, a little bottle of Wiser!! and a coin, all
left there in the snow.....the coin is Bob and Clay's design/souvenir for the 4th Calabogie Winter Sport Clinic for Injured
Soldiers (Feb 2014).....B had trained to do the trek as a stand-up cross country skier but you will see that he had to do it
as a sit skier....Stay Calm and Carry On....Be all that you can be....Leave no one behind.......it's all there in the
documentary.
Camp Fortune/Ski Hawks Ottawa
The program is running smoothly. We have not had to cancel for weather and we are averaging 18 skiers each night out
and about 28 guides each evening.
We have 2 new skiers who are over the age of 60 who have never skied and have never had site. They are progressing
very well and having a hoot. Both of them had family members who tried to dissuade them but they persevered.
Our final evening session is on March 12 and our final day of skiing will be on Saturday, March 15th.
Mont Cascades
Ski day stats
Volunteers/Instructors: 11
Students: 10
Program days: 8
Race day: All participated
Pre -season training day: all participated
Banquet: 30 participants.
Program Highlights: Amy our sit skier had a wonderful experience in a mountain man dual ski. This was her first year,
her Mother tells me she is already looking forward to next year. All of our skiers showed a great deal of improvement
and excitement throughout the year.
Ski Resort Improvements: The management finally figured out they required a cafeteria with better food options. The
new manager this year did a wonderful job in providing us with the food for our year end banquet and the muffins for
our first track ski improvement sessions. Luc the general manager of operations is certainly interested in hearing our
suggestions with regards to improving the accessibility to the lodge. I would like to meet with him this summer.
Fundraising: Is still going on, we will certainly meet the shortfall.
Recruitment: We can certainly use some help. This year was interesting with the match-ups. We learned how to teach
in groups! (not my first choice ).
Equipment Room/Storage: Once again we were given an equipment room to use for the season, Mont Cascades will
also be storing our equipment this year.
Projects for next year: Find more volunteers, will require help with this. Changes to the ski lodge. I will be looking for
someone to take over as coordinator…..pass the torch.
Edelweiss
We held our volunteer training weekend on December 14 & 15. Reports are that it went very well. We got several new
potential skiers who are able to tether. There were also a few volunteers that attended the Calabogie tethering clinic on
December 28 & 29.
This year, we have 59 Skiers & approximately 67 volunteers. There are 16 sit skiers and 43 stand up skiers. From the
stand up skiers we have a jr skier on a snow slider, we have an adult skier on a snow slider, two jr 4 track, two adult 4
track and a skier on a pole.
13
Our Tuesday night training has been successful for the last few Tuesdays thanks to Jeff Boucher and Tim Fitzgerald who
are able to go to the ski hill.
Equipment – our new mountain man/banana skis have arrived, they’ve been waxed and mounted to our sit skis. Joe
Beaudry has been very busy working on our equipment & getting the new skis ready to be used. We look forward to
receiving our new parts for the mountain man sit skis in the next few weeks.
Fund raising- our raffle is on its way. There are already several books returned to us, fully sold as well as only 400 of the
2000 tickets left to sell. Our hopes are to have all tickets sold this year. Our 50/50 has been very successful thus far. Our
first weekend a brand new volunteer won $145 and donated it back to the program. Our DiRenzo’s sandwiches have
been a huge hit once again, making $1.50 per sandwich ordered.
The second scheduled weekend for the program had to be rescheduled due to the weather. Our plan is to have a sign up
day for Saturday March 1. Skiers will need to sign up and arrange their volunteer for the day. It will be a combined day of
Saturday and Sunday skiers.
Our banquet has been scheduled for March 22 and already we have had several people excited that its after both the
school boards spring break! It will be held at the same location as last year, Tudor hall. We are looking into a new band
or a DJ for this year. So far so good from Edelweiss!
Mount Pakenham
2014 Year-End Report:
General:
Another great season! We had a total of 105 members (49 volunteers and 56 skiers).
Skiers:
We registered 56 students this season, ten of those brand new. Fifteen of the students were sit skiers. Over and above
the CADS National registration fee, they paid $200 for eight 1-hour lessons, offered Thursday/ Friday afternoons and
evenings, and Saturday/ Sunday daytime. The ‘race’ program took place on Tuesday evenings.
Volunteers:
Two long-time volunteers retired and nine others didn’t return this season for various reasons—follow-up was done
with all of them to ensure they left on positive terms. We recruited and trained 12 new volunteers, all of whom had a
great experience and will return. A number of these volunteers started tethering. We have been actively recruiting to
succession plan for volunteers retiring in the next few years, particular those who can tether.
Summary of volunteer certification/ training achieved:
* 5 volunteers completed CADS Level 1.
* 1 volunteer completed CADS Level 2A certification.
* 4 volunteers completed CSIA Level 1.
* 1 volunteer completed the first portion (teaching) of CSIA Level 2.
* 14 volunteers attended the tethering clinic at Calabogie Peaks.
* 5 volunteers attended the Eastern Pre-Course hosted at Calabogie Peaks.
* 3 volunteers attended the CADS Festival in Kimberley, BC as SKIMP instructors.
Equipment:
With the help of a grant from the Canadian Paralympic Committee we were able to purchase new stand-up and sit ski
outriggers, two new complete adult Mountain Man sit skis as well as retrofit two existing ones with new skis and
replacements shocks. They were well used this season amongst our 15 sit skiers.
One of our new volunteers took on equipment maintenance and ensured that everything was safe and in working order.
Fundraising/ Year-End Party:
More than $5700 was collected through pledges to the Skill-A-Thon. While we thought this event was declining and had
perhaps run its course, a few changes rejuvenated it and it would be worthwhile running it another year or two. As well
as scheduling sit skiers in advance (as we did the previous year), we also scheduled in stand-up skiers, in 40-minute
intervals over a 2-hour period. This allowed students to be matched up with at least one familiar person, as much as
possible. It also ensured less waiting around for students and their families.
14
The Year-End Party continues to be a big success with over 150 people attending. The Community Centre Upper Hall in
Pakenham has been the venue for three years, and with recently renovated handicapped washrooms, it is an ideal space
for us. There is no cost to attend the party. Families are welcome. Dinner is potluck finger foods. All students and siblings
get a door prize. We show our year-end DVD slide show. All students receive a medal, certificate of achievement, and
copy of the DVD. All volunteers are given a volunteer citation and a copy of the DVD (they are not presented on stage, to
save time).
Plans for Next Season:
* A new Management Team is being put into place, which will be headed by Allan Braun. About 80% of the positions
have been filled, including all the key ones.
* It has been a goal for a number of years to provide additional ski improvement sessions for our volunteers. In
cooperation with the Calabogie Peaks program, we will offer Ski Improvement for five consecutive Wednesday evenings.
Lift tickets (at CADS rate) will be paid for by our respective programs.
* There are 6-10 skiers who have been with the program for a number of years, and/ or who have progressed to such a
level as they don’t need one-on-one lessons. Small groups of these skiers have unofficially formed on Sunday
afternoons. Next year we will pilot a Teen Ski Club concept, perhaps offered on Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons.
They would come for 2 hours, and there would be a social aspect offered as well as skiing. There would be sufficient
volunteers to ensure it is safe, and that all skiers get some ski improvement, but it wouldn’t be a one-on-one lesson.
Informal talks with parents have indicated enthusiasm for this idea. It would free up some volunteers (which means
additional skiers can participate), while allowing some of our more advanced skiers to stay involved.
* We would like to work with CADS National to ensure that the national database has the ‘glitches’ worked out to
ensure a smoother registration process for our members. We would also like to find a way to be able to register
volunteers without them having to pay their registration fees individually.
* We would like to work with other interested NCD programs to order volunteer ski jackets at a discount price, perhaps
through National office or perhaps on our own. A request has been made to National to supply a women’s version of the
Avalanche jacket and to also do additional embroidery.
* New Management Team will meet in June/ July to finalize draft budget and schedule.
Black Diamond/Race
End of year report:
Black Diamond/Race went as well as can be expected during this unexpected “transition year”. Our athletes progressed
well this year with instruction by our 2 official coaches, our 2 main volunteers, as well as one parent volunteer who gave
generously of his time, providing physical support for some participants.
Carving the future: We had 4 participants from out of town who took part, as well as our own athletes; they got to do
some gate training, as well as some coached free skiing. We hope that next year we will find out about the event in
advance, and be able to get more CADS skiers to participate in this fun event.
Radios: There were some issues ordering them at the start of the season, so we used some loaned radios for the season.
4 radios have been ordered for the program & will be ready for next season.
Ontario Winter Games: After originally having 5 athletes sign-up, we ended up taking 2 female athletes to the Muskokas
to train and compete in the Ontario Winter Games. The girls got to fore-run 2 races & completed each race successfully.
Training alongside other athletes was a good experience for them and they had access to other coaches, enabling them
to get a taste of what a camp, or competitive team environment would be like.
Injuries: We had one athlete report a concussion when they were “hit” by a chairlift passing over them. The athlete was
asymptomatic after the incident, and recovered quickly being cleared by a Doctor to return to skiing only 7 days after
the incident.
Budget: I need to get a final update from Tom once a few more cheques have been written, but I believe we will be in
the black.
Next year: We are uncertain as to how we will proceed for next year. There will be some discussions with Lindsay, to see
if Black Diamond/Race will still be able to work with the Edelweiss program for next year.
15
I would like to thank everyone on the Board for their patience, understanding, and assistance this season. Anytime I was
uncertain as to what was required, or how to proceed, everyone was willing to lend a hand & I wouldn’t have been able
to get through without everyone’s encouragement. I hope that whatever format Black Diamond/Race takes on next
season, we can continue to build the relationships with all the programs and people of the Board.
Sincerely,
Bernie Simpson, President CADS-NCD
2014 Division Report: CADS-Quebec
Report Completed by:
Bernard Oligny
Important Activities of the past season:
CADS-Québec a modifié ses règlements généraux. Ce qui lui a permis d’élargir le nombre d’administrateurs pouvant
siéger sur son CA. De plus, tous les futurs présidents CADS-Québec seront dorénavant les représentants délégués au
national. La saison de ski des programmes CADS-Québec se sont bien déroulés. Toujours actifs, plusieurs programmes
ont offert des nouvelles certifications à leurs moniteurs; faites des activités de levée de fonds; ont acquis de nouveaux
équipements et adaptés d’autres afin de mieux répondre aux besoins grandissant de leur élèves en situations
d’handicap. Bien entendu, CADS-Québec a également eu à gérer tous les volets administratifs, légales et vie
démocratique attachés à ses responsabilités. ENGLISH VERSION: CADS-Québec modified its By-Laws. It allows to
increase the number of administrators on its Board of Directors. Also, all future CADS-Québec president will now be
CADS delegate to the national. Always active, certain program offered instructor certification, did fund raising and
purchase or adapted equipment to better answer the need of their student. As usual, CADS-Québec also had to manage
all the administrative, legal and democratic aspects of the responsibilities attache to its function.
Notable Successes of the past season:
Notre région accueille cette année le Festival CADS 2015 Mont Ste-Anne. La dernière année que le Québec a accueillie
un tel événement majeur fut en 1976. Beaucoup de temps et d’énergie ont été investi dans le succès de cet événement.
D’ailleurs, nous tenons à remercier les trois fondations CADS-Québec suivantes pour leurs implications au succès de ce
Festival : la Fondation Richard Lemieux, la Fondation des skieurs handicapés du Québec et la Fondation des sports
adaptés.
ENGLISH VERSION: Mont Ste-Anne CADS-Québec host the 2015CADS Festival. The last time this event was held in
Quebec was in 1976. We would like to thanks especially these three Foundations that help in the success of this year
festival: Richard Lemieux Foundation, Quebec handicap skiers Foundation, Adaptive Sports Foundation.
Significant Challenges of the past season:
Le recrutement d’élèves et de moniteurs bénévoles CADS restent un défi continuel. De plus, il y a une certaine
appréhension de nos membres vis-à-vis les attentes du nouveau programme de certifications des moniteurs existants et
16
futurs lors de la sortie du nouveau manuel. Que va-t’il se passer avec les moniteurs existants qui a cause de problèmes
de dos, genoux ou d’âge ne peuvent plus faire de « sit ski »? Réduire ces insécurités fut un défi réel pour nous! L’étendu
de notre territoire rend difficile la tournée des différents programmes et fondations CADS-Québec. Finalement,
l’implication dans le comité organisateur du Festival a retardé certaines actions/décisions à une période plus propice
après le festival.
ENGLISH VERSION: Recruiting students and volunteers instructors is an ongoing challenge. Also, we felt a certain
apprehension from our members about what will be expected toward existing and new instructors within the new CADS
instructor’s program with the arrival of the new manual. What will happen to existing instructors, who for various
reasons such as back or knee problems, age, cannot do sit ski? Reducing these insecurities was a real challenge for us!
The length of our region makes it difficult to visit every CADS-Québec program and foundation. Finally, our implication in
this year Festival forced us to delay certain actions or decision toward a more favorable period after the Festival.
Number of active programs, students, and volunteers in the division.
Environ 100 élèves et plus de 150 moniteurs/bénévoles sont répartis au-travers de nos 8 programmes CADS-Québec.
ENGLISH VERSION: We have within our 8 CADS-Québec program approximately 100 students and 150
instructors/volunteers.
Additional Comments
Nous tenons à souligner le décès d’un membre fondateur CADS, M. Henry Wohler.
ENGLISH VERSION: We have lost this year one of our founding CADS members: Mr Henry Wohler
2015 Division Report: CADS-New Brunswick
CADS NB is in very good shape this year. There is good cooperation between the 3 programs. To promote the Festival,
CADS NB has organized a drawing. All the students whose dues were paid by January 31, 2015 were eligible for the
draw. The winner was going to the Festival all expenses paid up to $2000.00. The winner is Kyle McNally.
We are trying to get financing from the Province of NB to upgrade our equipment.
CADS NB has participated in an activity call PARA NB EXPERIENCE. This organized by PARA NB. It is to promote all para
sports.
CADS WASKASKI
The number of students is up this year. The students call to book lessons when they can and we provide the service. Due
to extreme cold this winter, we did not have a CADS Day.
CADS South East Fundy
Although the main lodge burned to the ground in early December, they have been having a wonderful season at Poley
Mountain this year with lots of natural snow and fantastic ski conditions
17
In January, although they had to postpone the opening CADS Day twice, they had a beautiful day for it later in the
month. They also had their AGM that same day.
Another CADS Day was held in February, followed by a fund-raiser BBQ day that same weekend, which was well
supported by fellow skiers and boarders.
The final CADS Day is planned and hope to see many members so that they can show their appreciation to all with a
closing luncheon at Poley.
CRADS
The rebuilt of the CRADS organization continues. Last year they focused on training new instructors. This year’s focus
was on the board structure. They now have a strong board with Brook Taylor, senior accountant at Grant Thorton as
treasurer, David McMath, lawyer, as secretary, and Sara Roach, student, as activity co-ordinator. They are presently
missing a 1st VP to take over as President next year as this is Joseph O’Donnell’s last year in this role and he becomes
Past President next year. It is critical for the organization that this position is filled with a capable person.
CRADS hosted a CADS Level 1 and CADS Level 2&2a course at Crabbe .
CADS Level 1
4(all candidates were successful)
CADS Level 2
4 (course was treated as Tech session)
CADS Level2a
5 (all 5 candidates were successful)
The number of CADS Lessons given was down considerable this season despite having 4 CADS Days and working with
more organizations that represent disable individuals. More work needs to be done in this area. All lessons now go
through the Snow School where the Snow School director books the lessons and organizes the instructors.
CRADS had 4 successful CADS BBQ fund raiser.
CRADS was selected as the charity of choice to receive the net proceeds of a Raggaefest to be held at Crabbe mtn. on
March 27-29. This event has certainly raised the profile of CRADS and is expected to result in increased membership
next year.
Respectively submitted,
Lloyd Gagnon, President CADS NB
2014 Division Report: CADS-Nova Scotia
Report Completed by: Ed MCQuillan
Important Activities of the past season:
Lots of snow in Nova Scotia and the growth of our numbers.
Wentworth Ski Hill
Hirokazu Ozawa is the coordinator at Wentworth Ski hill. Wentworth provides free lift passes to CADS members. The
CADS program at Wentworth offers free ski/snowboard buddies. They arrange time with their buddy to come to enjoy
skiing or snowboarding. There are many certified CADS instructors and volunteers for this program; however we can
18
always use more. The Wentworth Snow School offers CADS ski/snowboard lessons, if CADS members need to learn to ski
or snow board. A program is needed to better coordinate the activities of CADS members and their instructors.
Volunteers have stepped forward to help coordinates and in the near future a program will be initiated for CADS at the
Wentworth Ski hill. This will help both CADS instructors and Wentworth staff to organize their time better. We have
certified CADS level 1, 2 and 2A full time instructors. Congratulations to our 2 newly certified CADS Level 2A instructors,
Mike Cunningham and Calvin Tattrie. We have 10-15 athletes who come to Wentworth to ski on a regular basis. We see
2-3 sit skies on the slope in weekends. The past Saturday, February 28/15, there were 3 bi-skis and one mono ski on the
hill during the same time. All of the sit skis at Wentworth were being used at once. CADs now has a dedicated CADS
building for storing equipment. It is located between the lodge and the rental shop. The location has ski in/out capability
and also handicap parking right next the building. This building was built and donated by Mike Cunningham
(Cunningham Construction, Pugwash, N.S.) Hiro would like to thanks all the volunteers, instructors and athletes who
make the CADS program grow.
Martock Ski Hill
Maureen Woodrow coordinates at Martock Ski hill. Maureen wanted to congratulate our 4 new CADS level 2a’s, Kirsty,
Mike S., Mike C. and Calvin T, were all successful in passing their CADS 2a level at Crabb last month. This is certainly
exciting news for our region. At Martock Currently a volunteer program is offered to CADS members on both Saturday
and Sunday. The program is similar to the ski school offered at the hill. There are two times available each day: 10:00
to 11:30 and 1:00 to 2:30. Our program covers two aspects: 1. Enjoy the snow – This program is for individuals who do
not have the ability to progress ski skills, but enjoy the experience of participating in a snow sport and being on the
hill. The goal is to offer them 4 opportunities to come to the hill to “enjoy the snow”. 2. Ski Skill Improvement – This
program is for individuals who are working on ski skills with the goal to achieve as much independence as possible.
Some individuals in this program have goals to participate competitively in the future. This programs objective is to
provide the same instructor each time with the same individual, allowing consistency and a better opportunity to build
on each lesson. Again, the goal is to provide 4 lessons. Currently the above program is offered with a combination of
volunteer CADS level 1 or 2 instructors paired with volunteers who have registered with CADS and have received an
orientation to our program at Martock. This combination has enabled the program to get more participants out each
day. This year there are 20 registered participants. Due to weather and cancellations by individuals due to illness etc.
there have been some who will not get out 4 times. However, some highlights are the successful identification of two
individuals who have expressed interest in competing in the future. There is a group of 3 skiers with similar abilities who
ski together as a group, having 1 Instructor paired with 3 volunteers. This has been a very positive experience for the
skiers as they get to enjoy the social aspect of skiing with their peers as well as have the supervision/instruction
provided in a ski school environment. The success of this CADS program leans heavily on Martock for support. Currently,
they provide annual passes to our CADS skiers. In addition, the hill provides a day pass to all CADS volunteers. The
program has enjoyed having had the benefit of OT students from Dalhousie University, volunteering for the last two
years. Martock not only provides these volunteers with a day pass, but also provides them rental equipment free of
charge. In addition, Martock has made significant improvements to their physical building making it fully accessible with
an elevator and new washrooms. The above program does not include the activities offered by Martock through their
paid instructors. Martock runs a program through the ski school for school groups or individuals that book private
lessons or school trips. These activities are run through the hill and are charged based on the hill rates. The next steps
at Martock would be a new CADS building as the one at Martock has deteriorate significantly. Equipment is an ongoing
issue with breaks/repairs and age all being factors that directly affects the availability of equipment for members.
Maureen would like to thank everyone for their volunteering and support. It certainly takes many hands to keep the
CADS group going and they are always looking for volunteers, especially those who can ski and may be able to become
instructors.
Notable Successes of the past season:
During February 2015 we had 10 volunteers take their level 1 CADS, instructed by Hiro Ozawa. We had 9 achieve their
Level 1 Cads and one volunteer is continuing to complete the program. We had 4 new CADS level 2a’s, Kirsty, Mike S.,
Mike C. and Calvin T, were all successful in passing their CADS 2a level at Crabb in February. One new sit ski was
purchased from Mountain Man.
Significant Challenges of the past season:
Coordination of volunteers and participants times and the need for more instructors and volunteers.
19
Number of active programs, students, and volunteers in the division.
We have 2 active programs with 100 participants and approximately 30 volunteers who are instructors and or assistant
instructors.
2014 Division Report: CADS-Newfoundland and Labrador
Report Completed by: Margaret Tibbo
Important Activities of the past season:
We continued to run a program at White Hills and after several attempts to get the Corner Brook Association For
Disabled Skiing back on track it is now reactivated. This is thanks to the efforts of Vern Wells who has rallied the troops
there. Doug Copp, key volunteer in the St. John’s area—on and off the snow, participated in the Pre-Course and is
keeping up on the new Instructor Certification information. We support School Ski Programs and are working with the
respective Snow/Ski Schools to have some their Instructor’s certified.
We are pleased to have John Hapgood and his family living in the St. John’s area now and look forward to working with
him.
We continue to follow our plan to rebuild the Instructor base here in NL through the Canadian Paralympic Committee
Grant we received. Due to the changes in the Instructor Certification Program we have had to extend this for another
year.
Notable Successes of the past season:
Corner Brook Association for Disabled Skiing, getting back on track!
Sport Fests—a multi-day gathering of a variety of sports/parasports coordinated by SportNL, open to schools for 2 days
and the general public for 1 day. Approximately 7000 people exposed over the 3 day period
Sport Fest in October 2014—great opportunity to promote and create awareness and recruit in the St. John’s Area.
Plan to participate in Sport Fest West in Corner Brook in June with support from CBADS
Acquired 8 pairs of outriggers from CPC Equipment and Provincial Grants
Significant Challenges of the past season:
Labrador City—the third ski hill in Newfoundland/Labrador and we are assisting them in developing a program as well.
Weather! A major issue on the East Coast as it affects travel to and from White Hills. On the West Coast, still a bit of a
problem—too much of a good thing sometimes on that side of the Island-- Imagine having too much snow!!
Number of active programs, students, and volunteers in the division.
2 key programs, White Hills, Clarenville and Marble Mountain, Corner Brook-- serving approximately 20 students
through the School Ski Program. Students may only participate once with their school but if they chose to continue they
must join CADS and go through the respective program.
20
Additional Comments
We are excited with the continued growth here in NL. And look forward to providing and growing the programs we
offer. It is a pleasure to work with such great volunteers and I thanks CADS National for the ongoing support we get.
21