
President & CEO
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What an incredible year it has been for WinSport!

As we reflect on our accomplishments and look ahead to an exciting future, I’m thrilled to share some highlights and updates with you.
Last June, we broke ground on a transformative project that marks a new era for WinSport’s Canada Olympic Park — the much-anticipated renovation of the Day Lodge. This isn’t just a facelift; it’s a reimagining of a living legacy from the 1988 Winter Olympic Games into a vibrant community hub that will serve Calgarians for generations to come.

Thanks to the generous $17.5 million contributions from both the federal and provincial governments, the Day Lodge will soon feature modern accessibility enhancements, inclusive spaces for all visitors, and a design that celebrates diversity and community engagement through sport. Construction is well underway, including the removal of the east sport tower, and we couldn’t be more excited about creating a welcoming environment for everyone. You can learn more about this transformative project here.
This year, we also made significant progress on our three-year strategic plan launched in 2023. This roadmap is designed to elevate every facet of WinSport, from amplifying our brand presence and partnerships to creating unforgettable guest experiences and fostering an exceptional team culture.
Speaking of our brand, November 2023 saw the unveiling of a bold and modernized look for WinSport. With vibrant colours, dynamic imagery, and a refreshed logo, our updated visual identity tells the story of athletic excellence and inspires the next generation of athletes and enthusiasts.
Our programs continue to thrive, with nearly 6,000 kids participating in our summer camps this year. Whether it’s mastering mountain biking, conquering wilderness skills, or flourishing skating and hockey programs, our camps help young athletes discover their passions. Our Snow School has also been a hub of activity, teaching skiers and snowboarders of all ages and stages to embrace the slopes with confidence.
Beyond our programs, the WinSport Event Centre has been buzzing with energy. This year, we proudly hosted the 2024 Scotties Tournament of Hearts, the Yonex Canada Open, and the home games for the Calgary Surge professional basketball team. WinSport is also the practice home of the Calgary Wranglers, the American Hockey League affiliate of the Calgary Flames, and the interim home of the SAIT Trojans men’s and women’s hockey teams.
Add to that an incredible lineup of concerts, shows, and performances, and it’s clear that WinSport is not just a venue — it’s a destination for world-class entertainment.
Our commitment to nurturing young athletes is stronger than ever. The National Sport School (NSS), which now serves Grade 8-12 students, continues to be a beacon of excellence. With an enrolment of 430 high-performance athletes, the NSS is helping shape the future of Canadian sport.
Looking ahead, the coming months promise even more excitement. Construction milestones for the Day Lodge will continue, and while there will be temporary changes to our operations, we remain steadfast in delivering the best guest experiences. The east side of the structure will be the primary focus for construction efforts until the winter hill is set to close on March 30 and a full transformation will then begin on the interior of the existing building.
We’re also gearing up for the FIS World Cups in freestyle skiing halfpipe, snowboard halfpipe, and slopestyle events in early 2025 — a testament to our standing as a premier destination for winter sports.
None of this would be possible without you, our incredible community. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our volunteer Board of Directors, dedicated Team Members, sponsors, donors, and volunteers. Your passion and commitment make WinSport a place where dreams are realized and potential is unleashed.
Since 1988, WinSport has remained true to its mandate: to manage, operate, and maintain COP in an efficient and business-like manner as a prudent owner of a world-class facility, while providing facilities for athletes at all levels and opportunities for community participation. Our mission to inspire and activate human potential through the spirit of sport has never been stronger.
As we step into this new era, I invite you to be part of our journey. Whether it’s joining a program, hosting an event, partnering with us, or supporting our not-for-profit organization through donations, there’s a place for everyone at WinSport. Together, let’s continue to Discover, Develop, and Excel.
Thank you for being part of the WinSport story. The best is yet to come!
Warm regards,
Barry Heck
President and CEO
WinSport