Don Foster
By the early 1970’s, school programs were organized and many young Midlanders were embracing snow sports. Among them was a 14-year-old, Grade 9 student, Angela Schmidt. It was soon apparent that she had a special talent. Don offered help and advice to the promising young skier. As competition evolved, so did the tutoring and mentoring as Don became Angela’s Personal Coach. Don helped Angela to many victories and high-level finishes locally, provincially, nationally, and internationally. He was signed on as the Assistant Coach for the Canadian Olympic ski team. He did double duty training Angela and supporting our National Team. Together they competed at annual World Cup events, international “invitationals” and three Winter Olympics at Sarajevo in 1984, Calgary in 1988 and Albertville, France in 1992.
Don assisted Angela for 16 years in competition. His role was not only as a coach but was responsible for the logistics of travel, accommodations, equipment, updates and schedules as she competed on the World Cup Circuit through the ’80’s in Quebec, Norway, Germany, Finland and Italy.
Don’s special expertise was in waxing and tuning skis. He studied the unique techniques of other professionals. He was a quick learner and applied his new knowledge to the Canadian Team members. The Foster farm includes slopes and vertical drops, rocks and ravines making some of the land unsuitable for farming. Creating a ski centre was a challenging endeavour, but with help, Don made it happen. A strong base of volunteers emerged to help expand access to Mountainview through a variety of snow-based sports and groups. When new ideas were presented to Don, the volunteers had the reins to run the event allowing Don to focus on the property and chalet, equipment set-up and trail maintenance and preparation. Don’s hands-on contributions to the school coaches and competitors, aside from discounts on tickets and rentals, was his expertise in waxing and grooming allowing each skier the opportunity to do their best regardless of the conditions.
Daily programs and events ranged from school training and races, club development and races, instructional programs for all age groups and levels, OFSAA Championships and in 1975, the National Junior Cross-Country Ski Championships! Today there are 35 km of groomed cross-country trails and 7km of snowshoeing trails. In the offseason, the trails are used by the Mountainview Cycling Club.
Don has helped so many kids learn to love skiing. His support and dedication over the years have made it possible for many, near and far, to have the opportunity to ski in a beautiful and welcoming setting.
