Knowledge Nuggets

Right now, over 4600 high-level youth athletes from across Canada are competing for iceberg-inspired medals at the 2025 Canada Games. Check out the design, which shows an iceberg’s peak above water, with its vast foundation hidden below, symbolizing the years of an athlete’s unseen training, resilience, and dedication that lie beneath the surface, supporting the...

Elite refugee athletes face major challenges when trying to continue their sport careers in Canada, like being unfamiliar with the system, feeling isolated, and losing their athletic identity. This study found when they had support from family, coaches, or community groups, they were more likely to stay involved in sport and rebuild a sense of...

Many factors can influence whether someone chooses to become a coach, but one surprising factor may be their birth date. New research found that, after 1980, individuals born earlier in the year were more likely to coach minor hockey than those born later. Building confidence and skills in those born later in the year may...

Adolescent athletes most often cited parents and coaches as their main sources of food literacy, while non athletes were more likely to rely on peers and social media. Since not all adults in guidance roles offer evidence-based advice, equipping coaches and parents with accurate, sport-specific nutrition resources is key to supporting young athletes’ health and...

Finding time for a full workout each day can be challenging, but meeting daily exercise guidelines is important for maintaining good health and overall well-being. To help people stay active during busy times, researchers have been exploring the use of “exercise snacks” or short bursts of movement or structured activities like walking that are spread...

A recent scoping review found that retired hockey players report depressive symptoms at nearly twice the rate of active players, and higher than the general population, due to loss of athletic identity and reduced social support. These findings highlight the need for proactive transition planning and targeted mental health supports post-career.

A recent Canadian study shows that training load isn’t the only factor influencing injury risk in university athletes. Stress from school, relationships, and mental health also play a big role. A more balanced, whole-person approach to training can help sport leaders better support athlete well-being and prevent injuries.

Gambling advertisements are widespread across televised sports and social media in Ontario, with many not fully aligned with provincial guidelines. With youth and vulnerable audiences regularly exposed, researchers emphasize the need for stronger regulation and monitoring of sport-related gambling promotions.

This Canadian study found that racism, sexism, and colonial systems still limit how Indigenous women and girls take part in lacrosse. To move forward, participants emphasized the need for community-led, land-based programs that reflect Indigenous cultures and support their leadership in sport.

An international panel of leading experts in dental trauma and sport dentistry recommends that athletes in high-risk sports like hockey, rugby, and martial arts wear custom-fitted mouth guards to prevent dental injuries. The guideline highlights the role of coaches, parents, and dental professionals in promoting this simple but effective form of protection.