Case study: Building inclusive pathways through Canada's Eagle Para Nordic Skills Development Programme

Creating meaningful opportunities for people with disabilities to take part in biathlon requires more than accessible equipment. It calls for a structured pathway, knowledgeable coaches and an environment where every participant feels welcome. Through its Eagle Para Nordic Skills Development Programme, Biathlon Canada has developed a comprehensive model that is helping clubs introduce para biathlon and build sustainable participation at the grassroots level.

During the Biathlon 4 All Project Coordinators Meeting in Salzburg (29 June -01 July 2026), Sheri Adams-Selinger presented the achievements of the Eagle Para Nordic Skills Development Programme.

The Challenge

As interest in inclusive sport continues to grow across Canada, more clubs are looking to establish para biathlon activities. Many, however, face similar challenges: uncertainty about where to begin, limited access to specialised equipment, facilities that are not fully accessible, and a lack of trained personnel to develop programmes from the ground up.

The Approach

To address these barriers, Biathlon Canada created the Eagle Para Nordic Skills Development Programme under the leadership of coach and educator John Cowan. Drawing on experience from other sports, the programme is founded on a simple philosophy: make participation accessible, create a strong sense of belonging, develop skills through a structured framework, and support coaches through education and certification.

The programme is built around three key components:

• A standardised curriculum that guides participants through progressive stages of learning.

• Safe and adaptable equipment and facilities that enable athletes with a wide range of abilities to participate confidently.

• Coach education, ensuring clubs have the knowledge and confidence to deliver inclusive para biathlon activities.

Creating a Grassroots Pathway

One of the programme's primary objectives is to bridge the gap between introductory participation and provincial and national team programmes. By establishing a clear grassroots pathway, participants can develop their skills while remaining connected to long-term opportunities within the sport.

The curriculum is divided into three progressive levels—Learning to Soar, Beyond the Nest, and Soaring & Exploring—allowing athletes to build confidence, gain independence and continue developing at their own pace.

Looking Ahead

Following the successful pilot of the third programme level in 2026, the initiative continues to expand across Ontario and throughout Canada. Future priorities include wider national adoption, increased competition opportunities, stronger partnerships and expanded equipment-sharing schemes to support more clubs and participants.

Lessons for Biathlon 4 All

Biathlon Canada's experience demonstrates that successful para biathlon development extends well beyond equipment provision. Three key lessons have emerged:

• Foster a genuine sense of belonging from the very beginning.

• Place the athlete at the centre of programme design and delivery.

• Build strong partnerships to ensure long-term sustainability.

The Eagle Para Nordic Skills Development Programme provides an inspiring example of how National Federations can create inclusive pathways that enable people of all abilities to discover, enjoy and progress in biathlon.

See the full presentation on IBU Learning Suite.