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Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games Welcomes Katie Spittlehouse as Operations Manager

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TRAIL/ROSSLAND, BC — The Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games Society is pleased to announce the appointment of Katie Spittlehouse as Operations Manager, making the team of volunteers behind one of British Columbia’s most anticipated multi-sport events that much stronger!

With a background spanning over 16 years in alpine ski coaching—most recently with the Canadian Para-Alpine Ski Team—Katie brings deep experience from the slopes to the planning room. Her career highlights include coaching at the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Games, as well as leading teams at the 2019 Canada Winter Games and competing as an athlete in the 2009 Canada Summer Games.

“After years of developing athletes at every level of the sport, I’m excited to bring my skills to the broader world of event planning and delivery,” says Katie. “The BC Winter Games are a powerful celebration of youth sport and community spirit, and I’m honoured to be part of shaping that experience for athletes, coaches, officials, and volunteers.”

As Operations Manager, Katie is tasked with coordinating the logistical foundation of the Games, working closely with the Games’ 14 directorates to manage planning, budgeting, contracts, and timelines in the lead-up to the event, which takes place February 25–March 1, 2026.

With as many as 1,800 participants, 15 sports, and up to 1,500 volunteers expected, the Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games will represent one of the largest collaborative efforts the region has seen in recent memory.

Katie emphasizes the role of volunteers and the community in delivering a successful Games: “Volunteering is one of the most rewarding ways to get involved. Whether you have two hours or two weeks, we have a place for you.” Early volunteer interest is already being accepted via the Games’ registration portal, with official recruitment launching in September 2025.

She also notes the opportunity for local businesses and organizations to contribute to the Games’ success: “From in-kind donations to sponsorship and services, there are many ways to support the Games and leave a lasting legacy in our region.”

The benefits to the host communities go far beyond the competition. In addition to an estimated $1.6 million in economic impact, the Games will leave a legacy of upgraded sport infrastructure, skilled volunteer capacity, and long-term funding through the BC Games Society’s Powering Potential Fund.

For Katie, the Games reflect what sport is all about: “Sport has shaped who I am—it’s where I’ve built community, learned resilience, and found purpose. I want these Games to give young athletes and our entire region that same opportunity for growth and connection.”

About the BC Winter Games
Held every two years, the BC Winter Games provide a competitive, multi-sport environment that supports the development of athletes, coaches, and officials on the pathway to national and international levels. The Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games will mark the 33rd edition of the BC Winter Games and the third time the region has hosted them.

For more information or to express interest in volunteering, please visit bcwintergames.ca.

Media Contacts:
Andras Lukacs
Director of Marketing
Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games
andras@bcwintergames.ca

Volunteers Put ‘Pens to Paper’ in Preparation for 2026 BC Winter Games

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TRAIL, BC, May 29, 2025 — Last week’s Key Volunteer Rally for the Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games began with a fitting etymology lesson. The word amateur, derived from the Latin amator, refers to someone who pursues an activity for the love of it rather than as a profession. “In that sense, not only are our athletes amateurs—but so are you,” said Games President Brian Stefani, addressing a room full of passionate volunteers gathered at the Trail Memorial Centre on Friday. United by their love of sport and community, each attendee embodied the true spirit of amateurism.

The Trail-Rossland region has a proud legacy of hosting provincial sporting events, including the BC Summer Games in 1996 and the Winter Games in 1982 and 2006. While the communities have evolved significantly over the past two decades, their commitment to supporting youth and sport remains as strong as ever. “I’m not very sporty,” admitted Katherine Shearer, Superintendent of School District No. 20, who attended the rally alongside many current and former SD20 staff. “But sharing in the joy of our youth as they compete builds a profound sense of belonging.”

Earlier today, the Host Community Sport meeting welcomed over a dozen Provincial Advisors—representatives from the organizations that oversee each sport in the Games—to the region. Each advisor was matched with a local Sport Chair, who was selected by community sport clubs. Together, they toured the competition venues located between Castlegar and Fruitvale. The Sport Chairs will act as tournament directors during the Games in February 2026.

These exchanges marked a key milestone in Games planning. “Today was a huge step forward,” said Director of Sport James Brotherhood, who leads the team of Sport Chairs along with four other members of the Sport Directorate. “It was pens to paper—maps drawn and strategies aligned.” Decisions made during these planning sessions, including the allocation of provincial funding, will leave a lasting impact on the region’s sport infrastructure.

Some of the day’s work took place at Red Mountain, where Josh Dueck, Executive Director of Freestyle BC, met with Ryan LaChapelle, local Sport Chair for freestyle skiing and Club Director of Team GIVE’R. Though planning is still in its early stages, discussions are already underway about potential upgrades to terrain features and storage facilities—enhancements that could benefit the community for years to come. For Josh, the vision extends beyond the competition itself. “Sport is a powerful tool for change, he said. “When athletes march into the Opening Ceremony and feel the energy of these communities, it will be transformational. That moment may become a turning point in their lives. The real win lies in the anticipation, in the creation of this opportunity—for the athletes, and for the community. The competition is just the cherry on top.”

Media Contact
Andras Lukacs
Director of Marketing
Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games
andras@bcwintergames.ca

Countdown to Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games begins 

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TRAIL-ROSSLAND, February 25, 2025 — Excitement is building in the Kootenays as the official countdown begins for the Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games. In just one year, the region will welcome as many as 1,200 of British Columbia’s top young athletes, along with coaches and officials, for five days of elite competition and community celebration from Wednesday, February 25 to Sunday, March 1.

“The Kootenays are a beautiful part of BC, especially in winter, and its communities are well known for their hospitality,” says Brian Stefani, president of the Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games. “We look forward to welcoming the province’s best young athletes and their families for an exceptional experience.”

Trail and Rossland have a rich history of winter sports and events, including the BC Winter Games in 1982 and 2006. Known for their world-class ski terrain, passionate sports culture, and dedicated volunteers, these communities are poised to deliver an unforgettable multi-sport event.

The 2026 BC Winter Games Host Society is led by President Brian Stefani and Vice President Barb Stanley, supported by a Board of Directors, and powered by 1,600 volunteers who will ensure every aspect of the Games is a success. Volunteer recruitment will begin in earnest in the fall, and community members are encouraged to get involved in this milestone event.

“The BC Winter Games provide an important stepping stone for young athletes as they progress in their sporting careers,” says Andy Morel, Mayor of Rossland. “Trail and Rossland offer outstanding venues and a passionate sporting community that will help create a truly inspiring competition.”

“We are honoured to welcome the BC Winter Games back next year, bringing significant economic benefits to our community,” says Colleen Jones, Mayor of Trail. “This event will invigorate local businesses, boost tourism, enhance local infrastructure, and strengthen community spirit. It’s also an exciting opportunity for residents to get involved through volunteering and showcase the hospitality of Trail.”

KEY DATES FOR THE 2026 BC WINTER GAMES:
– Opening Ceremony: Thursday, February 26, 2026
– Competitions: Thursday, February 26 – Saturday, February 28, 2026

FUN FACTS:
– More than  900 medals will be awarded across 15 winter sports.
– Volunteers will prepare and serve over 18,500 meals during the Games.

For more information, visit staging.bcgames.org/.

Media Contacts
Andras Lukacs
Director of Marketing
Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games
andras@bcwintergames.ca

Andres Marquez-Velasco
Marketing Coordinator
BC Games Society
andresmv@bcgames.org

BC Games Society announces sport package for Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games

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The BC Games Society has announced the full contingent of sports that will take part in the Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games from February 25 to March 1, 2026.

FULL SPORT PACKAGE

The 15 sports named will bring over 1,700 athletes, coaches, and officials to Trail, Rossland, and surrounding communities, which have hosted the BC Winter Games twice previously in 1982 and 2006 in addition to the BC Summer Games in 1996.

Inclusion in the Games is determined by the BC Games Core Sport Policy, which outlines the criteria that provincial sport organizations must meet and ensures that the Games continue to deliver exceptional experiences through sport to young athletes from all over the province.

The BC Winter and BC Summer Games are British Columbia’s biennial celebration of sport and community. Since 1978, the BC Games have had over 350,000 participants and volunteers, plus thousands more attend as spectators and supporters.

To learn more about the Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games, visit bcwintergames.ca.

Ages Sport Athletes Coaches Officials Total
U-14 Alpine Skiing 100 24 6 130
U-18 Archery 54 18 12 84
U-16 Artistic Gymnastics 96 28 28 152
U-15 Badminton 64 20 8 92
U-15 Biathlon 40 16 18 74
U-14 Cross Country Skiing 82 16 10 108
13-35 Cross Country Skiing-Para 8 4 0 12
12-20 Cross Country Skiing-Special Olympics 16 8 0 24
U-16 Curling 80 32 10 122
U-16 Figure Skating 60 16 20 96
12-45 Figure Skating-Special Olympics 16 8 0 24
U-14 Freestyle Skiing 72 20 26 118
U-16 Judo 100 20 17 137
U-14 Karate 96 24 29 149
U-12 Rhythmic Gymnastics 56 16 8 80
U-16 Ringette 96 24 5 125
U-14 Speed Skating 72 24 24 120
12-45 Speed Skating-Special Olympics 16 8 0 24
12-29 Wheelchair Basketball 56 22 8 86
  Totals 1180 348 229 1757

 

Quotes

Alison Noble, President and CEO, BC Games Society
“The sports in the BC Games are held to a high standard through our Core Sport Policy, and their inclusion is a result of the hard work that provincial sport organizations are doing to grow their sports and develop inclusive and positive cultures.

The collaborative partnership with each provincial sport organization in the Games is foundational to the work we do. We thank them for their investment of time and resources to make the Games a success.”

Thorstein Fischer, MAG Program Manager and BC Games Provincial Advisor, Gymnastics BC
“The BC Winter Games are a vital step in the development pathway for Gymnastics BC athletes, coaches, and officials. For many, it’s their first experience traveling and competing as part of a regional zone team, an opportunity that is rare in our sport. The Games provide a unique environment to develop skills, gain valuable competition experience, and prepare for future interprovincial and national events.

Just as importantly, hosting the Games in communities like Trail-Rossland allows us to build stronger relationships with local clubs and better understand the unique challenges they face. It gets us out from behind our desks and into the heart of these clubs, where we can see firsthand the dedication, passion, and obstacles they navigate. This connection helps us provide better support and ensure that gymnastics continues to grow in all corners of the province.”

Media Contact
Andres Marquez-Velasco
Marketing Coordinator
BC Games Society
andresmv@bcgames.org

Board of Directors in place for Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games

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ROSSLAND, January 22, 2025 — The Board of Directors for the Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games, scheduled to take place from February 25 to March 1, 2026, has been finalized. A nominating committee, led by the Mayors of the City of Rossland and the City of Trail, guided the selection process.

The Games will be led by President Brian Stefani and Vice-President Barb Stanley, supported by 14 additional community leaders, each taking responsibility for specific portfolios. The Board will be supported throughout the planning process by the BC Games Society.

The cities of Trail and Rossland and surrounding areas will welcome as many as 1,200 athletes and 600 coaches and officials, competing in 15 sports. The Games will kick off with an Opening Ceremony on Thursday, February 26, 2026 followed by four thrilling days of competition, culminating on March 1. Venues for sport competitions and special events will be announced as details are finalized. The complete Sport Package for the Games can be found here.

The BC Winter Games showcase the best young developing athletes in the province, supported by certified coaches and officials. With over 1,600 volunteers required to stage the Games, this event is expected to infuse as much as $1.6 million into the local economy. Registration for general volunteers will open in the fall of 2026.

A complete list of the Board of Directors can be found here.

Quotes:

“Trail is incredibly excited to co-host the 2026 BC Winter Games”, said Trail Mayor Colleen Jones. “This is an opportunity to celebrate our region’s passion for sport, showcase our breathtaking mountain environment, and welcome thousands of athletes, coaches, officials, and volunteers to our world-class facilities.”

“Rossland is proud to co-host the 2026 BC Winter Games,” said Rossland Mayor Andy Morel. “This event not only will bring together the province’s top youth athletes, but also provide a platform to showcase our vibrant communities and celebrate the spirit of sport.”

“Barb and I are honoured to lead this talented group of Directors, who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their portfolios,” said Games President Brian Stefani. “The Directors are now in the recruitment phase as they look to fill 80 Chair positions with volunteers who will lead specific Games planning areas. Together, we’re excited to begin this journey and deliver an exceptional event.”

“Trail and Rossland have a remarkable legacy of hosting sporting events and fostering volunteerism,” said BC Games Society President and CEO, Alison Noble. “Games participants can expect exceptional support from experienced volunteers and the opportunity to compete in world-class facilities. The entire BC sport community is looking forward to February 2026 with great excitement.”

For more information contact:

Andras Lukacs
Director of Marketing
Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games
andras@bcwintergames.ca

David Conlin
Marketing and Communications Manager
BC Games Society
davidc@bcgames.org

Trail and Rossland selected to co-host the 2026 BC Winter Games

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December 9, 2021

Trail, BC – The BC Games Society announced today that Trail-Rossland will co-host the 2026 BC Winter Games.

These cities have a long history of hosting major sport events. The region has successfully hosted the 1982 and 2006 BC Winter Games and the 1996 BC Summer Games as well as the 2011 BC Seniors Games. Numerous Alpine Skiing and Nordic Skiing championships have also been staged in both Trail and Rossland.

The BC Winter Games are an important developmental milestone for B.C.’s emerging high-performance athletes. Over 2000 athletes, coaches, and officials will participate in approximately 19 sports. 

BC Games host communities benefit from direct economic impact, community, and sport development legacies, as well as the opportunity to engage volunteers in a celebration of community pride. The Games will be organized and staged by a community Board of Directors and up to 2,000 volunteers.

Together with Trail-Rossland, three other communities are now confirmed as hosts of future Games. The 2024 BC Winter Games will take place in Quesnel; 2024 BC Summer Games will be held in Maple Ridge and the 2026 BC Summer Games will be hosted by Kelowna.  

Quotes:

Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
“Congratulations to the communities of Trail and Rossland chosen to host the 2026 BC Winter Games. These Games are a celebration of the power of sport, which has had a tremendously positive impact on my life. For these young athletes, their coaches and officials, these games are an excellent competitive experience, providing them with an opportunity to shine and test their athletic skills as we cheer them on.”

Mayor Lisa Pasin, City of Trail 
“The City of Trail is thrilled to partner with Rossland for the 2026 BC Winter Games. We look forward to welcoming everyone to experience our region’s first-class sporting amenities and friendly hospitality services.”

Mayor Kathy Moore, City of Rossland 
“It is so exciting to once again have been selected as the site of the BC Winter Games. The communities of Rossland and Trail have a great history of working together on this fantastic event. It is a wonderful opportunity to inspire young athletes to be the best they can be in their chosen sport while learning about sportsmanship, comradery and teamwork.”

Alison Noble, President and CEO of the BC Games Society
“It is exciting to have the collaboration and commitment of two communities hosting the BC Winter Games. This region is well-versed in major sport event hosting ensuring a successful BC Winter Games in 2026.”

Quick Facts:

  • BC Winter Games (on average) – 19 sports, 2,100 participants (1,500 athletes, 600 coaches, managers and officials), 2,000 volunteers.
  • Athletes range in age from 9 -19 years depending on the sport. The average age of the athletes is 14.
  • There will be competition in approximately 19 sports including competition for athletes with a disability.
  • 2,000 community volunteers will be involved in planning and staging the Games.
  • The BC Winter Games are held every two years in the even calendar year.
  • The 2026 BC Winter Games will be held February 19-22, 2026.
  • The estimated economic impact of the BC Winter Games is $1.6 million.

Learn More:
For information about the BC Games Society and the bid process please visit: www.bcgames.org. 

About the BC Games Society
The BC Games Society is the leadership organization that guides the BC Winter and BC Summer Games and prepares Team BC for national multi-sport Games. Since 1978, the BC Games have taken place in 38 communities and brought together thousands of athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, and spectators in celebration of sport and community excellence. It is a milestone event that people count as an exceptional experience where memories, friendships, spirit, and pride are abundant.


Media Contacts:
BC Games Society
250 387-1375

Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
250 208-4309

City of Trail
Mayor Lisa Pasin, City of Trail
250 364-0804

City of Rossland
Mayor Kathy Moore
250 362-7396

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We respectfully acknowledge the lək̓ʷəŋən (Lekwungen) People, also known today as the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations, and recognize that our work in this province spans the territories of more than 200 First Nations, as well as Métis and Inuit communities.

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