Fernie Nordic skiers are officially on Team Canada, and the community came together in full force at the Elk Valley Nordic Centre to celebrate.
On a winter afternoon filled with pride and emotion, the Fernie Nordic Society honoured racers Ella Fuller and Louison Dubief, now officially named to Team Canada for the 2026 FIS Nordic Junior & U23 World Ski Championships, taking place March 2 to 8 in Norway.
For a tight-knit ski town like Fernie, moments like this run deep. What began years ago on local trails has grown into a journey to the world stage. Smiles, tears, Canadian flags and handmade signs filled the stadium as family, coaches, volunteers and supporters gathered to send the athletes off in style.
The celebration was as much about community as it was about competition.
Long-time program builders Naomi and Jeff were recognized for their years of dedication growing Fernie’s race program. Dennis Lawrence, one of Louison’s earliest coaches, was honoured for inspiring generations of young skiers. Race team coach Kate Woods was thanked for her steady leadership and ongoing support of Ella, while Coach Johnny and coaches across the Kootenays were acknowledged for collaborating on waxing, ski testing and race support throughout the season.
Volunteers and helpers who organized the event were applauded, along with Ella’s “Fernie aunties,” who showed up with cupcakes, decorations and a sea of red-and-white spirit. Local donors were also recognized for helping fund the road to Norway.
Ella Fuller and Louison Dubief, FIS Nordic Junior and U23 World Ski Championships Team Celebration – February 10th 2026
Fernie photographer Vince Mo captured the raw pride and gratitude of the afternoon, documenting a milestone moment for the club and community.
Fuller and Dubief’s selection to Team Canada reflects years of disciplined training, strong coaching and a culture that prioritizes athlete development from grassroots to high performance.
The Elk Valley has quietly built a reputation for producing resilient Nordic athletes who train in cold temperatures, varied terrain and a supportive team environment. With the world championships set in Lillehammer, Norway, the birthplace of modern Nordic skiing, the stage is both historic and demanding.
For Fernie, the celebration was more than a send-off. It was a reminder that local trails can launch global dreams.
As the countdown to Norway begins, the message from the Elk Valley Nordic Centre was clear: the entire community is behind these athletes.
Go Ella. Go Louison. Fernie is cheering all the way to Norway.
Photos credit: Vince Mo Media
