Nikola Zoricic, a talented young racer and a Canadian Ski Cross Team member, sadly passed away in a sudden, tragic accident in Switzerland on March 10, 2012.

Nik’s parents immigrated to Canada when Nik was five, and he continued skiing in Canada at Craigleith Ski Club in Collingwood, where his father, Bebe, worked as a coach. As newcomers to Canada, the family often had to make financial choices. Nik’s ski development years were marked with Bebe working two jobs, the family applying for a few sports bursaries, and Nik benefiting from equipment sponsors such as Atomic and Uvex.

Nik had outstanding passion and dedication for the sport he loved, and he spent numerous hours with young athletes, helping them with advice and feedback. He often said that more athletes should get a chance to live their dream and that too many burdens present themselves on an athlete’s path to success, including injuries or simply a lack of access to quality and safe training and adequate developmental opportunities. Often athletes would be lost in these challenges and could benefit from a third party’s help or perspective.

Nik considered himself lucky and wanted to help replicate what he had for others. He would often grab a kid on the hill or in the lodge and ski with him or her for a few runs, sharing his insights. He would take a group of skiers, get them down a course, show them the tricky parts, and offer advice.

Nik was called different names by his family and friends. Some refer to him as a grandson, a son, a brother, a best friend, a Gentle Giant, Zorro, or the guy who raced in Blue jeans! He was the support shoulder to lean on at 6’3, 200lbs (or 210lbs, as Nik would tell you). And many did! Now, his shoulder is gone, but the NZ Foundation will continue giving and sharing on Nik’s behalf with those who share his passion and dedication.