Western Canada Winter Sport Camp

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the Western Canada Winter Sport Camp from 18-23 January 2026 is now open. The application deadline is 15 December 2025 @ 1200 PST.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT:
Soldier On is excited to present the Western Canada: Winter Sports Camp! It will be located in the Comox Valley surrounded by evergreen forests, snow-covered mountains, quiet wetlands, and a beautiful ocean coastline of Vancouver Island. If you love winter sports and want to start the new year with an unforgettable winter adventure, this camp is for you! Participants will have the opportunity to learn and practice Nordic skiing (both classic and skate), biathlon training, sledge hockey, snowshoeing, tubing, and more. 

Nordic ski lessons: Take this opportunity to learn the fundamentals of classic and skate skiing! Soldier On is excited to partner with Raven Lodge, located near Mount Washington. Experienced instructors will help you build skills, confidence, and efficiency by guiding you through proper balance, gliding, turning, climbing, and safe stopping techniques on both classic and skate skis.

Biathlon Training: Solider On is excited to partner with Vancouver Island Biathlon Club (VIBC) for biathlon training. Get ready to challenge yourself, It’s all about building control, confidence, coordination, and technique between skiing and shooting.    

Snowshoeing tour: You'll be guided on a 2-hour snowshoe tour, on unmarked trails in and around Strathcona Park. You'll learn about safe travelling and how to properly prepare yourself for winter hikes.  

Sledge Hockey: You’ll learn the basics of this adaptive winter sport, including how to balance and move confidently in the sled, use the sticks for propulsion, and develop passing and shooting skills. In addition, you’ll gain an understanding of the game rules and safety, while building the speed, agility, and teamwork needed to play sledge hockey effectively.

Tubing down Mount Washington: A fun activity on the last day, perfect for enjoying the outdoors, building teamwork, and a great way to wrap up the winter sports camp.

Please note that these activities are based on weather cooperation and event may have to adapt to accommodate weather.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 14.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from WESTERN CANADA (BC, AB, Northern Canada, SK, MB, Western ONT)  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. Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
18  January: Arrival day / Stretch and release at CFB Comox   
19 January: Snowshoeing tour / Biathlon training 
20 January: Nordic Ski Lessons (Classic)/ Biathlon training
21 January: Nordic Ski Lessons (Skate) /  Biathlon Training / Yoga class (potentially) 
22 January: Sledge Hockey / Tubing & Team 
23 January: Departure day

*Please note that 18 and 23 January are travel days.

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