Returning to Play…Better
When the initial shock of the COVID-19 lockdown passed, the attention of our sector turned to contemplating what sport and physical activity would look like in an era of public health restrictions. The development and implementation of return to play plans, driven by a commitment to sport organizations’ members and the practicality of long-term sustainability,…
Evidence-Based Return to Play
The development and implementation of return to play plans requires community sport organizations to confront a number of complex challenges. A new commentary in Managing Sport and Leisure reviews the literature to help community sport organizations tap into the evidence on issues relating to assessing and building capacity, embracing innovation, and adapting top-down policy directives…
Digital Program Admin
Thinking about taking your program registration and evaluation tasks online? In the SIRCuit, MLSE LaunchPad shares insights and best practices from the development of their Scoreboard™ digital platform.
Program Promotion
Do your promotional strategies include the necessary information for athletes experiencing disability to feel safe, welcomed and confident in their participation? Don’t forget accessibility information, local transportation options, specialized equipment available, level of challenge, and coach certification.
Cultural Context
Understanding the cultural context of a community is critical when designing and implementing physical activity and sport programs. For example, integrating Indigenous values, beliefs, and practices (e.g. smudging, berry picking, hunting) into programs can greatly enhance their value among Indigenous groups. Engage stakeholders in the process, and ensure that their needs and priorities are taken…
Becoming Para Ready
In 2017, 6.2 million Canadians reported having a disability and it was estimated that only 3% of those individuals engaged in regular organized physical activity (Statistics Canada, 2017; Government of Canada, 2012). Of the often-limited opportunities available, individuals experiencing disability may choose to participate through either segregated or integrated programs. Segregated sport programs are typically…
Football Canada Concussion Management
Despite high public angst about concussions in sport, participation in football is on the rise. Football Canada reported a 44% increase in the participation of boys and girls up to the U18 level between 2014-2018. In the SIRC blog, learn how Football Canada is using research and innovative technology to keep the sport safe through…
A sport-based critical hours program for low-income youth
Project Summary This program of research addressed three important issues faced by Canadian children; the problem of low physical activity, the need to increase sport participation, and the absence of programming during the ‘critical hours’ after-school period (see Active Health Kids Canada, 2012 Report Card for a review). It is particularly important to offer critical…
In Search of Inspiration: Re-thinking the Potential for Demonstration Effects
Major sport events in Canada and around the world have been cancelled in the wake of the COVID-19 global pandemic. For sport administrators, researchers and policymakers, this pause represents a unique opportunity to reflect on the desired impacts and legacies of future sport events. Event bids are often full of claims about the positive impacts…
The Digital Gamification of Youth Sport Engagement
Gamification is the use of game techniques, such as the allocation of points and rewards, to provide incentive and fuel the competitive spirit in aspects of life outside of sport (Bunchball, 2020). Examples are abundant, and include Points Days at Shoppers Drug Mart, using an Aeroplan credit card to earn travel miles, or opening a…