The Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games Society has appointed 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 — Spittlehouse 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,” Spittlehouse said in a news release. “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, Spittlehouse 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.
Spittlehouse 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.
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 Spittlehouse, 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.”
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