International Winter Sports Camp - 2026 - Whistler, BC

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the International Winter Sports Camp in Whistler, BC (03-12 Feb, 2026) is now open. The application deadline is 30 November, 2025

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT:  
Soldier On is proud to host the 11th edition of the International Winter Sports Camp, formerly known as the Allied Winter Sports Camp, in Whistler, British Columbia, bringing together serving and veteran members from Canada, Australia, South Korea, the United States, and the United Kingdom. This unique 8-day event offers participants the opportunity to engage in a variety of adapted winter sports and recreational activities in a world-class alpine setting. Participants will take part in a diverse program that includes:

• Nordic skiing, Biathlon and Snowshoeing
• Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding
• Para Ice Hockey
• Ice Fishing
• Bobsleigh (weight limit of 285lbs (129kg) and mobility safety limits apply)
• Sitting Volleyball
• Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre Tour and Craft
• Yoga

While sports and activities can be performed with para-sport adaptations, the schedule is physically demanding and requires sustained participation in daily activities. Applicants should have a good level of overall fitness and be prepared for prolonged physical exertion throughout the week. 

Beyond the physical benefits, this event fosters international camaraderie and connection. Engaging in sport alongside peers from other nations promotes mutual understanding, shared resilience, and the development of lasting friendships. Participants will gain confidence, improve physical and mental well-being, and experience the power of sport in a supportive, inclusive environment. Whether you're new to winter sports or an experienced athlete, this camp offers a chance to challenge yourself, learn new skills, and be part of a global community of military members united by service and recovery. 

We respectfully acknowledge that this event will take place on the shared, unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation and the Lil̓wat7úl (Lil’wat) Nation, who have lived on and cared for these lands since time immemorial. Soldier On is grateful for the opportunity to gather, learn, and heal on this land, and we honour the enduring presence, stewardship, and cultural contributions of the Squamish and Lil’wat Peoples

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 10.

PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE OF EVENTS (subject to change):
03 Feb: Arrival Day
04-05 Feb: Para Ice Hockey and Cultural Tour/Craft
06-07 Feb: Nordic Skiing, Biathlon, Snowshoeing
08 Feb: Ice Fishing, Sitting Volleyball, Yoga
09-11 Feb: Alpine Skiing / Snowboarding
12 Feb: Departure Day

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from across Canada who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

MENTAL AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
The International Winter Sports Camp is a physically demanding program involving 8 consecutive days of winter sport and recreational activities. While activities can be adapted to meet most individual physical and mental health needs, participants should have a baseline level of physical fitness to safely and fully engage in the experience. Participants should be able to:

• Engage in daily physical activities that may include, but are not limited to, skiing, sledding, team sports, and yoga

• Tolerate cold weather conditions and outdoor environments for extended periods

• Demonstrate moderate cardiovascular endurance and basic core strength for activities such as Nordic and Alpine skiing, para ice hockey, and bobsleigh

• Safely transfer in and out of adaptive equipment (e.g., sleds, sit-skis) with or without assistance

• Participate in group sports and movement-based sessions, including sitting volleyball and yoga

• Manage daily transitions between activities, including dressing for winter conditions and moving between venues

• Participants may be exposed to loud noises, including gunfire from the biathlon range, during the Nordic skiing/biathlon component of the event. Alternate activity will be arranged for participants who may find that environment too overwhelming. 

While sport, creative and recreational activities are accessible to all, the overall schedule is active and immersive. Applicants should be prepared for a full week of physical activity engagement, and are encouraged to consult with their healthcare provider if unsure about their readiness.

Selected applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians from Canada and other nations and therefore should be able to function in a social environment. Dignitaries, including military officers, may visit throughout the camp. Applicants also acknowledge that there will be no alcohol allowed in the accommodations, and will be required to share accommodations.

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Travel assistance will be provided by Soldier On and coordinated by the Soldier On Operations team. The most economical means of transportation to and from events will be prioritized and discussed with members via the event OPI or delegate.