The Coaches Association of Ontario (CAO) and the Canadian Sport Institute Ontario (CSIO) are pleased to announce that Ontario’s premier sport leadership event, the Ontario Coaches Conference, will be hosted as a virtual week-long event from March 24-31, 2021.

The Ontario Coaches Conference has become a signature annual event on the provincial sport calendar since 2007, creating an opportunity for coaches, teachers, administrators and everyone with a passion for sport to gain valuable insight into shaping the future of coaching and sport.

“The pandemic has placed coaches in a unique position where they are constantly modifying training plans, communication and programming for the betterment of their athletes and communities”, said Jeremy Cross, Executive Director of the CAO. “Due to these unprecedented circumstances, the conference is more important to Ontario coaches than ever before. We look forward to a strong collaborative effort in partnership with CSIO, offering more than just education and accessibility, but a chance for coaches to prepare for a brighter future of sport for all participants.”

This year’s conference theme, ‘Shaping Tomorrow Today’, will see top experts from around the world including acclaimed authors, professional coaches, and sport science leaders coming together to provide Ontario coaches with tangible takeaways for when sport returns again.

“Sport matters. Not only does sport help to keep individuals fit and physically and mentally healthy, sport also contributes to the character, and heart of communities”, said Debbie Low, Chief Executive Officer, CSIO. “This past year, sport organizations have been faced with adversity and challenges, but demonstrate the value of sport by coming back together in a safe and responsible manner. We see this commitment by Ontario coaches who spend countless hours adapting performance plans and programming to ensure the success of their athletes. CSIO is pleased to partner with CAO on this conference, and look forward to presenting information on shaping sport for the future by our experts.”

Understanding the complexity of the ongoing pandemic, this virtual platform will allow coaches from all across Ontario to have access to this event like never before. Through the support of the Ontario Government, the CAO’s Coaching Enhancement Funding Programs will enable Ontario coaches to participate in this professional development opportunity for free. For more information and to register today, visit www.coachesontario.ca/conference.

About the Coaches Association of Ontario (CAO) The Coaches Association of Ontario is an independent, non-profit, coach-led organization that strengthens development opportunities and provides educational resources for coaches in a variety of contexts. The CAO promotes coaching ethics and ensures the wider community recognizes the vital role of the coach in the development of sport at all levels.

About the Canadian Sport Institute Ontario (CSIO) Canadian Sport Institute Ontario (CSIO) is a non-profit organization committed to the pursuit of excellence by providing world-class programs, services, and leadership to high performance athletes, coaches, and National and Provincial Sport Organizations to enhance their ability to achieve international podium performances. Our team of expert practitioners deliver sport science, sport medicine, life services, and coaching and technical leadership support to help Canada win medals and strengthen the sport system in Ontario and Canada. CSIO is part of the Canadian Olympic and Paralympic Sport  Institute Network, working in partnership with the Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee. CSIO is further supported by funding partners such as the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Sport Canada, Own the Podium, and the Coaching Association of Canada. www.csiontario.ca