Release
Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture
January 16, 2026
FREDERICTON (GNB) – Fredericton resident Dianne Norman has been named chef de mission for Team New Brunswick for the 2027 Canada Winter Games, which will take place in Quebec City from Feb. 27 to Mar. 14.
A former Olympic basketball player, Norman brings a distinguished sports background and strong leadership experience to the position.
“The chef de mission plays a vital role as the volunteer leader of the New Brunswick delegation,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Isabelle Thériault. “Dianne’s leadership and experience make her an outstanding choice for this role, and we are confident she will inspire the team and help create unforgettable memories at the 2027 Canada Games.”
Norman is widely regarded as one of New Brunswick’s greatest female basketball players. She represented Canada at two Olympic Games – in Atlanta in 1996 and Sydney in 2000 – as well as at the Pan American Games. She has also competed in national university championships, the World University Games, the Jeux de la Francophonie and the 1987 and 1989 Canada Games. Norman is an inductee of the New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame, the Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame and the Fredericton Sports Wall of Fame.
She currently serves as senior advisor for strategic enrolment management at the University of New Brunswick and has extensive experience in organizational development, change management and conflict resolution. Her leadership background includes service as a board member with the Sport Dispute Resolution Centre of Canada.
As chef de mission, Norman will serve as the official spokesperson and team leader for Team New Brunswick, fostering a positive and supportive environment that allows athletes and coaches to thrive on the national stage.
“I am honoured to represent Team New Brunswick as chef de mission for the 2027 Canada Winter Games,” said Norman. “This is an incredible opportunity to support our athletes and coaches and to showcase the strength and spirit of our province on a national stage.”
Nicole Smith has served as chef de mission for Team New Brunswick since 2017.
“Nicole’s dedication and service over the past several years have helped set a strong foundation for success, and we extend our sincere thanks for her years of service to Team New Brunswick,” said Thériault.
New Brunswick is expected to send about 325 athletes, coaches and support staff to next year’s Games.
The Canada Games are held every two years, alternating between winter and summer. They feature two weeks of competition, 16 to 20 sports, and more than 5,000 volunteers. New Brunswick will host the 2029 Canada Summer Games.
More information on the Canada Games and Team New Brunswick delegation is available online.
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Media Contact(s)
Jessica Hearn, communications, Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture, [email protected].