NEIL DAFFERN
AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE

Neil Daffern was a pioneer of snowboarding in Canada, a competitor, advocate, innovator and snowboard designer who helped shape the sport during its earliest days.

An enthusiastic competitor, Neil travelled throughout North America to compete. In 1986, he placed second in moguls at the North American Championships. In 1989, Neil and a small group of Canadian snowboarders became the first Canadians to compete in World Cup competitions in Europe.

At a time when many ski areas would not allow snowboards on their slopes because they were considered too dangerous, Neil became an advocate for the sport and a bridge between the snowboarding community and ski-area operators. He worked to demonstrate that snowboards could be safely controlled and enjoyed on the mountain. At Lake Louise, he rode alongside the General Manager, who was on skis, to demonstrate the control and capability of a snowboard. At Sunshine, he helped establish a permitting process for snowboarders who wanted to ride.

Neil also saw an opportunity to make snowboarding more accessible. When the few snowboards available in Canada had to be purchased from U.S. manufacturers, Neil designed and built snowboards in the basement of his home so local riders could access more affordable equipment.

His impact extended beyond his own riding. Transworld Snowboard Magazine credited Neil with being the first to develop a twin-tip freestyle design that helped ‘usher in a new design era’ in North America.

Neil died in a helicopter accident in April 1990 while participating in a heli-snowboarding competition near Blue River, B.C.

Neil’s commitment to snowboarding, his willingness to challenge convention and his desire to help others succeed are the foundation of this award.

The Neil Daffern Award for Excellence honours his legacy by investing in the next generation of Canadian snowboarders, athletes who have the talent, commitment and character to pursue excellence and help shape the future of the sport.

We want to hear directly from the athlete.

Applicants are asked to submit a letter explaining why they believe they are the ideal recipient of the Neil Daffern Award for Excellence.

The letter should be written entirely by the athlete – not by a parent, coach or other representative.

Applications must be submitted by email to Candice Wouters, Senior Coordinator, High Performance & Major Events: pnaqvpr.jbhgref@pnaqnfabjobneq.pn no later than 11:59 pm MT on October 31, 2026.

Applicants should submit:

Applications should be submitted electronically as a PDF attachment with the subject line:

Neil Daffern Award for Excellence – [Athlete Name]

All applications will be treated as strictly confidential and may be submitted in English or French. French submissions will be translated prior to review by the selection committee.