Nordiq Canada, the national sports governing body for cross country skiing recently honoured Chris Serratore, NTDC Thunder Bay Board chairperson, with one of three national Volunteer of the Year Awards. These awards recognize individuals who have made significant achievements in the regional or national development of cross-country skiing.

Chris’ involvement in the Thunder Bay ski scene started over 20 years ago when his children were young.  He began by helping with the local Thunder Bay area clubs as his children participated in Jackrabbit and junior racing programs, and as his children progressed, Chris obtained his coaching certifications, become a coach instructor, and also an event official. He spent countless hours as a volunteer and Board Member (including Chair) for Big Thunder Nordic Ski Club.

Eventually Chris joined the NTDC Thunder Bay Board of Directors, and  after several years he assumed the leadership role for the high performance organization.  In addition, he honed his technical skills and volunteered as a wax tech for NTDC Thunder Bay at many NorAm competitions. Chris also volunteered as a wax tech for Team Canada at the 2017 World Junior/U23 Championships in Soldiers Hollow, Utah. 

Chris also was the co-chair of the successful 2018 Ski Nationals Organizing Committee hosted by LSNA (Lake Superior Nordic Association – a joint hosting partnership between Big Thunder and Lappe Nordic).  Chris has held this position in LSNA since 2011 and has contributed to the success of ski event hosting in Thunder Bay, on events ranging from local races, Ontario Cups, World Junior/U23 Trials and the 2015 & 2018 National Championships.

Chris has demonstrated his dedication to the Thunder Bay and national ski scene many times, stepping up time and time again in many roles:  coaching, event organization, or contributing his expertise in the wax room. 

Chris exemplifies many qualities that determine success in cross country skiing: long-time dedication, determination, self-sacrifice, and persistence.  He has done this with little regard for self-gain, but rather because of his love for the sport, his desire to develop athletes, and his interest in promoting the sport on many levels in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada and even internationally.

Jamie Coatsworth, Chair of Nordiq Canada’s Awards Committee commented that the recipients of these National Volunteer Awards “represent the leaders across Canada that our sport needs to continue to grow …” . 

Congratulations Chris on being recognized for your many contributions!

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For more information contact:            Heather Foster       [email protected]     807-629-3489