Canadian Sport Institute Ontario (CSIO) is pleased to announce the new members of the CSIO Athlete Council. Joining the Athlete Council are Michael Ciepiela (Rowing), Andrew Gray (Soccer), and Alex Kopacz (Bobsleigh). The new members will join existing Athlete Council members Nasif Chowdhury (Sitting Volleyball/Wheelchair Basketball), Steph Currie (Alpine Ski), Larissa Franklin (Softball), and Eric Rodrigues (Wheelchair Rugby).

With CSIO being an athlete-centred sport organization, the Athlete Council’s objective is to represent the best interests of CSIO affiliated athletes and advocate for the protection of athletes’ rights, including to articulate and develop recommendations from an athlete’s perspective to best influence services offered by CSIO, the flow and conditions of CSIO facilities, and other key initiatives.

CSIO looks forward to collaborating with the Athlete Council, to hear their feedback and gain diverse insights reflective of the larger athlete voice. The Athlete Council and the recommendations they bring forward will strengthen CSIO and its ability to elevate people and performances in the pursuit of building champions.

A big thank you to outgoing Athlete Council chair Michelle Long (Figure Skating), co-chair Matt Hughes (Athletics), and Council members Finlay Knox (Swimming) and Yvette Yong (Taekwondo) for their contributions to CSIO.

Quotes

“We are excited to welcome these incredible athletes to our Athlete Council. Having such a diverse representation of athlete voices on our Council is vital to reflect the needs of the athlete community. It also helps to ensure we are providing optimal support to affiliated athletes on their athletic journey. A big thank you to Michelle, Matt, Finlay and Yvette for their dedication and contributions to CSIO during their time on the Athlete Council.” stated Debbie Low, CEO of Canadian Sport Institute Ontario.

“As the outgoing chair of the CSIO Athlete Council, I reflect with pride and gratitude on my time in this role. Being part of the Council has been an enriching experience, allowing me to advocate for my fellow athletes, foster meaningful and positive change, and contribute to a supportive, high-performing environment. I want to extend my thanks to the CSIO for their commitment to elevating people and performances. To the new council members, welcome – I am confident you will continue to drive our mission forward with passion and dedication.” said Michelle Long, Former Chair of the CSIO Athlete Council.

“I wanted to join the CSIO Athlete Council because, through my experience as an athlete, coach, and entrepreneur, I have seen firsthand the importance of guiding youth toward their successes. A strong Council that athletes in Ontario can rely on to advocate for and guide them is crucial. This support will enable even more athletes from Ontario to represent our country on the world stage and then hopefully to a fulfilling career thereafter.” stated Alex Kopacz, member of the CSIO Athlete Council
and Olympic Champion.

About Canadian Sport Institute Ontario:

Canadian Sport Institute Ontario (CSIO) is a non-profit organization committed to the pursuit of excellence by providing best-in-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 staff 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, Canadian Paralympic Committee, Own the Podium, and the Coaching Association of Canada. CSIO is further supported by funding partners such as the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sport and Sport Canada. www.csiontario.ca

Media Contact:

Laura Albright
Senior Advisor, Communications & Marketing
Email: lalbright@csiontario.ca
Tel: 647.395.7536