John Sim Awarded Service to Snowsports in 2024

John Sim has been recognised with the Service to Snowsports Award as part of the 2024 Snow Australia Community Sport Awards. 

Spending many years involved with NSW Cross Country and National Cross Country, John is humbled to be recognised, and thanks his family for their ever-present support during his career. 

“It is a big thrill to be recognised," Sim said. 

“That recognition goes to my family as well. The time spent attending meetings, organising trips and being away from home can not occur without family support.”

Over the years, John’s most significant highlight has been supporting young athletes develop their competitive careers, while they push their personal limits.

“The most significant highlight would be having the privilege of watching young athletes develop their skills and then to follow their competitive career right up to the World Cup and the Olympics,” he said. “Also seeing the wonderful support athletes give to each other whilst racing.

“When racing they push their personal limits and compete to win, but at the end of a race they always congratulate or console each other.”

Holding positions in event management and support for junior athletes, John’s passion for these areas came through his own enjoyment of skiing. 

“Snow and cross country skiing have been my passion since I was at school,” he said. 

“So it was only natural that when I became a teacher, I passed on my enjoyment of skiing to the students of Monaro High School in Cooma.

“Being part of the cross country ski world for so many years has allowed me to accumulate skills in skiing technique, navigation, appreciation of nature and build a self-confidence in supporting others to enjoy skiing.”

During his time involved with snowsports, John has learnt many lessons and shared that the most important one is to do something you enjoy. 

“The big lesson in any volunteering role is that you are doing something that you enjoy,” he said. 

“Then the time you spend in organising, supporting and cleaning up is so others get to enjoy the experience.

“Never expect thanks but enjoy those moments when it happens.”

Not only passing on his love for the snow onto his students, but also his own children and grandchildren has brought immense pride to John.

“Proud moments accumulate,” he said.

“I have grandchildren who love cross country skiing and no doubt that is due to the enthusiasm passed on by my children who skied and competed from a very young age. 

“I am also proud of all the school students and scouts with whom I travelled since the 1980s to various areas for ski camps and events who are now involved in leadership roles and giving back to the sport.

“If I could get just one big message to parents of children who aspire to compete, it is this: That adults should always be the support for their children, not the push behind their children. 

“The greatest success comes from self motivation.”

Snow Australia would like to congratulate John on receiving the Service to Snowsports Award in the 2024 Snow Australia Community Sport Awards, wishing him all the best in his future.