Pac North Division – note from the president
By Bart Defreitas, Division President, Pacific North (bart.defreitas@skipatrol.ca)
On February 22, 2025, CSP Pacific North Division will be delivering a first aid skills competition hosted by the CSP team at Troll Ski Resort near Quesnel, BC. The event will have teams of three patrollers conducting full diagnostic and treatment scenarios on the slopes with other fun events that encourage learning and team building while enjoying the spectacular mountain scenery at Troll Ski Resort.
For the evening, we will have pub service food in the main lodge followed by a dessert auction, a 50/50 draw, and karaoke for the brave. For further information please contact Signe Nielsen at signenielsen22@gmail.com.
Saskatchewan Division – note from the president
By Cathy McKay, Division President, Saskatchewan (cathy.mckay@skipatrol.ca)
The CSP Saskatchewan Division is a vibrant and dedicated group of volunteers who provide first-aid and safety services across the province. Comprised of seven active patrols within four zones – Battle, Parkland, Qu’Appelle, and Wapiti – our division thrives on the passion and commitment of our members. Since COVID, our membership has been hovering a little under 100 members.
With Saskatchewan’s largely rural demographic, our training programs typically kick off in later fall, following the busy harvest season. We have volunteers certified as instructor-trainers, advanced first-aid instructors, instructors in alpine on snow, and Nordic on trail.
Aside from providing regular patrolling services, last season our members extended their support by covering 17 special events at ski areas across the province.
Their dedication doesn’t stop when the snow melts. During the summer months, our members provided first-aid coverage for 10 non-skiing events, showcasing their versatility and commitment to community service.
The CSP Saskatchewan Division is a testament to the power of community, skill, and dedication. Whether it’s on the slopes, at community events, or during training sessions, our members proudly embody the spirit of the Canadian Ski Patrol.
Québec Division – note from the president
By Jean Coté, Division President, Québec (jean.cote@skipatrol.ca)
When we think of the Canadian Ski Patrol, what comes to mind first are our days on the slopes: ensuring safety, responding when needed, and sharing our passion for skiing. But what we sometimes forget is all the work that happens behind the scenes. Beyond patrol shifts, there’s training, operational management, and logistical support. This work takes place at every level – national, division, zone, and ski area.
Dozens of volunteers often go beyond their roles as patrollers to keep the organization running. Without them, there would be no training, no equipment, no communication, no innovation – none of the essential structures that allow us to function effectively. This work forms the invisible foundation on which everything we do relies.
It all works because everyone contributes in good faith. Each patroller, leader, or instructor acts with the intention of doing good, hoping to contribute to something larger. But even with the best intentions, certain challenges can strain those working behind the scenes.
Take this example: norms or procedures are put in place to ensure clear and fair operations. Yet sometimes they are ignored or interpreted differently. These choices force leaders to step in, correct the situation, assess the impacts, and once again explain why those rules exist. While necessary, this work takes time and energy that could be devoted to collective projects.
Another common situation: a member insists on an adjustment to a unique, specific circumstance. While the request may be legitimate, it often requires consultations, checks, or administrative adjustments. These efforts, focused on an isolated need, can drain the energy of volunteers who are juggling other priorities.
And then there are the unanswered emails. When a leader is waiting for confirmation or essential information and hears nothing, it stalls progress and delays the process. These cumulative delays eat away at the time and energy of those who are already heavily involved.
Each situation might seem minor, but their accumulation becomes a burden. And when this burden isn’t lightened, it can eventually wear out those who are deeply committed. When a leader steps away due to exhaustion, the task they were handling doesn’t disappear—it gets added to the responsibilities of those who remain, making their workload even heavier.
What can we do to support them?
- Follow the processes. They are designed to simplify collective operations.
- Be responsive. Timely replies prevent unnecessary delays.
- Prioritize the essentials. Ask yourself if a personal request is truly necessary.
- Show appreciation. A simple thank-you can make a significant difference.
Together, we can make our values of pride, passion, and professionalism shine. Let’s take care of our leaders—they are invaluable.
This post is also available in: French