Snowboard Community Update - September 2026

Dear Snowboard Community,

While the Australian winter was shorter than many of us had hoped, it was fantastic to see so many athletes, coaches, officials and families making the most of every opportunity on snow. The enthusiasm, resilience and commitment shown across the snowboard community throughout the season was a great reminder of the strength and passion within our sport.

One of the highlights of the winter was the Alpine Snowboard FUTURES program in Thredbo, which recorded its largest participation numbers to date. Designed to introduce athletes to snowboard alpine racing and inspire the next generation, the program provides riders with skill development opportunities, access to coaching, and exposure to high-performance training alongside National Team athletes on a Parallel Giant Slalom (PGS) course. The camp was followed by a PGS competition that attracted more than 70 competitors, highlighting the continued growth, enthusiasm and strength of the alpine snowboard community.

Mt Hotham was another hub of activity throughout the season, hosting both the Snowboard Cross and Ski Cross FUTURES program and ANC competitions. A total of 91 athletes from across Snowboard Cross and Ski Cross attended this year's FUTURES, providing developing athletes with the opportunity to train alongside high-performance athletes and coaches, build new skills, and gain valuable on-snow experience. The week also featured exciting competition, with emerging Australian athletes competing alongside some of Australia's leading Snowboard Cross and Ski Cross athletes.

Looking ahead, many of our athletes are beginning preparations for the Northern Hemisphere season. As international competition approaches, athletes are focused on their final preparations for another exciting period of racing and competition overseas. We wish everyone travelling abroad the very best for a successful and rewarding season ahead. If you are considering competing overseas this year and are unsure what you need to organise, please see the information below, which outlines the key requirements.

We are also encouraging eligible university athletes to express their interest in representing Australia at the 2027 World University Games in Changchun, China. Taking place from 15-25 January 2027, the Games provide a valuable opportunity for student-athletes to compete on the international stage. Alpine Snowboard will be included in the program, while Snowboard Cross will not feature at the Games. Expressions of Interest close on 30 September 2026.

In this edition, we also catch up with our SBX Olympic athletes six months on from the Milano Cortina Olympics as they share their reflections, insights and experiences from their Olympic journey. Be sure to read their stories below.

Finally, a sincere thank you to the resort staff, coaches, officials, volunteers, parents and athletes, along with everyone behind the scenes who helped make the season possible. Despite the challenges of a shorter winter, your passion, commitment and support ensured another memorable season for our snowboard community. We look forward to staying connected with you and following the successes of our athletes in the months ahead.

All the best,

National Snowboard Committee
Snow Australia

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Included in this update:

• 6 Months on from Milano-Cortina
• Expressions of Interest Open for Changchun 2027 World University Games
• Competing Overseas
• 2026 Snow Australia Membership