By Sam Cortes, Communications Coordinator

 

Leading up to the 2023 Canada Winter Games, we are featuring the dedicated coaches who spend countless hours giving back to sport. Let’s get to know freestyle ski coach, Blake Grist!

 

 

How long have you been coaching this sport?

Five years.

 

What is your proudest accomplishment as a coach?

I love to help athletes achieve beyond what they think they are capable of. My proudest accomplishment as a coach has been the immense growth of Freestyle Skiing in Manitoba.

 

What is your team doing in preparation for the Games?

Our team is doing plenty of off-season training. This past summer we trained on the glacier in Whistler as well as at the world class facility, Maximise, in Quebec.

 

How does your team stay connected?

We are a tight-knit group, who spend time together off the ski hill.

 

Any words of wisdom for Team Toba athletes?

The games are a place where you get to show Canada what you have been working so hard for. There is an amazing sense of community and positivity.