Climbing Escalade Canada (CEC) is thrilled to introduce the Assistant Coaches who will support Team Canada as we prepare for the 2025 IFSC Youth World Championships in Helsinki, Finland. These dedicated and experienced coaches will play a crucial role in preparing and guiding our young athletes on the world stage. They will join Regan Kennedy and Andrei Mandzuk, previously announced as Head Coaches.
The Coaching Team will start working rightt away on a Talent Identification Process and Coaching Strategy, leading up to the Qualifier Events in February (speed) and May (boulder and lead). Should you have any question, please reach out to [email protected]
With this incredible coaching team, Team Canada is well-positioned for success at the 2025 Youth World Championships. Stay tuned for updates as our athletes train and prepare for this exciting international event!
Frédéric Desgranges
Travelling Assistant Coach, 2025 Youth World Championships
Frédéric has been a dedicated climbing coach for over a decade, bringing extensive experience to his role as a Travelling Assistant Coach. He has been involved with the Canadian Youth Team since 2019 and has served as its Head Coach since 2023. Frédéric’s coaching philosophy centers on team cohesion, athlete-centered approaches, and continuous development. As the Head Coach of the Québec Competitive Climbing Club at Délire Escalade, he has planned and supervised training programs for athletes preparing for provincial, national, and international competitions. His experience also includes roles as a routesetter and instructor, highlighting his versatile contributions to the climbing community. With a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, NCCP certification, and a commitment to athlete development, Frédéric is poised to support Team Canada in achieving success at the 2025 Youth World Championships.
Liz Maffett
Travelling Assistant Coach, 2025 Youth World Championships
Liz is a seasoned climbing coach with over a decade of experience preparing athletes for competitive success. As the Head Coach of Gravity Climbing Gym’s Competitive Youth Team, Liz has developed and implemented comprehensive training programs for athletes aged 9-18, coaching at local, provincial, and national competitions. She has also contributed as an Assistant Coach for Team Canada at the 2019 and 2023 Youth World Championships, gaining invaluable experience in international competition management and athlete support. Bilingual in French and English, Liz is a certified NCCP Competition Coach and a Camp 4 Performance Certified Climbing Coach, bringing a wealth of knowledge, passion, and dedication to the 2025 Youth World Championships.
Alistair Jensen
Domestic Assistant Coach, 2025 Youth World Championships
Alistair brings over a decade of experience coaching climbers of all ages and skill levels. As the Head Coach and Programs Director at Progression Bouldering Gym in Vancouver, he leads the Youth High Performance Team while managing programs for youth and adult climbers. With a solid background in competitive climbing coaching, routesetting, and physical literacy, Alistair has honed his expertise through roles at The Hive Bouldering Gym and Inspire Sports International. His certifications as a NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist, ACE Certified Personal Trainer, and NCCP Competition Coach 1 make him a versatile and knowledgeable coach dedicated to athlete development.
Olivier Dorion-Thériault
Domestic Assistant Coach, 2025 Youth World Championships
Olivier is a dedicated climbing coach with years of experience fostering athlete development and team success. As a passionate mentor, Olivier has been instrumental in guiding climbers of all skill levels through structured training programs tailored to competitive climbing. His coaching philosophy emphasizes personal growth, technical precision, and resilience. With strong organizational skills and a commitment to creating positive, athlete-centered environments, Olivier is an invaluable asset to the Canadian team. His involvement as a Domestic Assistant Coach at the 2025 Youth World Championships reflects his deep dedication to advancing climbing excellence in Canada.
