Knowledge Nuggets

Being the most skilled athlete or possessing the most experience in a group does not make us good at leadership – we need to learn it. In the latest SIRCuit, Cari Din, leadership learning facilitator and teaching faculty member at the University of Calgary, shares her top four leadership learning strategies.

November 11th is Remembrance Day. Today, and every day, we remember Canada’s veterans, and their service and sacrifice for our country. Sport and physical activity programs can have a positive impact on the wellbeing of veterans experiencing physical disability or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Beyond providing enjoyable experiences, research finds participation can support personal growth...

Sport and physical activity programming that incorporates trauma-sensitive design harnesses social and environmental protective factors that can contribute to children’s resilience. Specific strategies include creating a safe environment, nurturing positive adult relationships, building body awareness and physical competence, and delivering active, engaging experiences.

Concussions may be related to increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s Disease. Data from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging reveals that concussions can produce long-lasting structural and functional changes the brain in older individuals.

A new study by public health researchers finds the number of calories kids consume from post-game snacks far exceeds the number of calories they actually burn playing in the game. The researchers found the average energy expenditure for children observed was 170 calories per game, while the average caloric intake from post-game snacks was 213...

Athletes often tie their self worth to their accomplishments, improvements, and outcomes in sport. Transitioning out of sport, due to retirement or injury, can compromise their sense of self worth. Feelings of having nothing to offer, being inadequate, and feeling unsure of their value in life can negatively affect the individual’s mental health.

“Know before you go” is a mantra driving organizations’ return to play communication, ensuring participants know what to expect, are familiar with protocols, and feel confident that health and safety is the #1 priority. Learn about this and other key factors in successful return to play plans.

Players using the crown of their head to initiate contact with another player is one of the most dangerous practices in football for concussion. Learn how rule changes and coach, official and athlete training and education are reducing the risk of concussion in football.

Wondering how you can help your team “work smart” (being productive, not just busy) during this time of video and conference call overload? Learn how to use an intentional approach to managing internal communication in the SIRC blog.

Researchers have long-studied the subtle biases that can influence home-court advantage, including a spirited crowd, less travel fatigue, familiar surroundings, and even altitude. New findings from Simon Fraser University now add a referee bias to the home-court advantage research. The analysis from the scores of 100,000 NCAA basketball games revealed the referees favoured the home...