At Fasken, a common thread weaves through the families of our lawyers, Dave Johnson and Allyson Roy: a shared passion for embracing the winter outdoors through skiing. Fasken is a proud supporter of Alpine Ontario Alpin (AOA). We truly appreciate the crucial support that AOA provides athletes and their families in the pursuit of this challenging sport.

Skiing is a great way to connect and spend time with family and friends during Ontario’s often indoor-centric winter season. It is an outdoor group activity for all ages, which is rare when it comes to youth sports. In a world where kids are engulfed by social media, electronics, and screens, ski racing is a refreshing contrast. Skiing provides an opportunity to disconnect and build life skills you cannot acquire from a video game console.

Dave knows this journey well. His life on skis began at what would now be considered late in life – seven! Dave began racing in the Nancy Greene ski league and progressed through a highly unremarkable racing career into coaching. These days, he is on the slopes at the first hint of snow and skis until the last lift at Osler Bluff stops turning. His children learned to ski at just over a year old, and now he is watching them (often from behind the closest coniferous tree) participate in the U10 and U12 ski race programs.

photo: Allyson with Cadence and Hunter

Allyson’s weekends at Alpine Ski Club look much the same. Her two children are also in the U10 and U12 ski race programs. Having married into a ski family, it was inevitable that as soon as her children could walk, they would be introduced to skiing. Witnessing her son’s burgeoning enthusiasm for the sport, Allyson “saw the light” and made the switch from snowboarding to skiing, learning alongside him. Now, her speedy kids leave her in their dust.

The solo pursuit of ski racing teaches children key life lessons — the importance of perseverance, the virtue of patience, and the rewards of hard work. Fasken’s partnership with AOA is more than just a sponsorship; it is an embodiment of our principles. Just as Fasken cultivates potential and champions excellence, so does ski racing. It is a pursuit that demands tenacity and continuous improvement, qualities that also help legal minds provide effective solutions to their clients.

Organizations like AOA depend heavily on volunteers and corporate support. Fasken’s contribution not only helps lessen the financial strain associated with the sport but also enables a diverse group of participants to discover the joys of skiing and racing. Fasken’s sponsorship invests in the community, promotes wellness, and supports a sport that brings families together.

Fasken’s connection with AOA runs deep, much like the tracks left by skis on a fresh powder day. It is a partnership founded on shared values, a commitment to family, and the pursuit of excellence – both on and off the slopes.