Winter sports associations are organizations that promote and govern various winter sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice hockey. They establish rules, organize competitions, and support athletes at different levels, from amateur to professional. These associations often work to develop the sport and increase participation among enthusiasts. Many winter sports associations also focus on safety and education, providing training programs for coaches and officials. They may collaborate with international bodies, like the International Ski Federation or International Ice Hockey Federation, to ensure that their standards align with global practices and to promote winter sports worldwide.