Soccer balls and concussion

The average soccer player heads the ball 12 times in a game, and each header carries up to 100g acceleration – enough to cause serious brain damage. New research from Purdue University shows that deflating balls to pressures on the lower end of ranges enforced by soccer governing bodies, and replacing them when they get…

Skeleton technology

In a skeleton race, improvements of fractions of a second at the start can make all the difference at the finish line. Researchers from the University of Bath recently developed the first non-invasive motion capture technology to accurately track the push-start phase of a skeleton race. The new technology could help athletes and coaches track…

Cycling Footwear

Do the shoes make the cyclist? New research from the University of Colorado found stiff-soled cycling shoes combined with clip-in pedals delivered a maximum sprint power during high-power, uphill sprints that was 16.6 ± 10.2% greater than flexible soles with a pedal attachment (i.e. running shoes with toe clips).

Volleyball Aerodynamics

New research in aerodynamics is shedding light on the key to those sneaky float serves in volleyball. Using a wind tunnel and hitting robot, researchers noted the pattern of panels on the ball presents an asymmetric surface to the flow of air, leading to unpredictable flight patterns. Switching from the standard panel arrangement to a…

High-top Shoes & Ankle Injury

High-top basketball shoes are often marketed for their ability to minimize the risk of ankle injuries, however this claim is not supported by the evidence. Instead, increased risk has been linked to prior ankle injuries. Experts recommend wearing whatever feels the most comfortable and supportive.

Speed Skating Tech

Canada’s long-track speed skaters debuted a suit thought to give a competitive advantage during the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympics. While some research has shown up to a 10% reduction in aerodynamic drag with high-tech suits, other novel designs have produced limited effect. See what Canada’s top athletes are wearing at the ISU World Cup Speed…

Covered Courts Program

What’s one of the most significant barriers to tennis participation in Canada? Winter! Read the SIRCuit to learn how Tennis Canada is supporting municipalities to develop covered courts and increase access to the game.

How data informs Volleyball Canada’s concussion strategy

It might be surprising to hear concussions are a serious risk in the sport of volleyball. But data collection from Volleyball Canada—dating back to 2016—has revealed exactly that. “Our research has shown that about 1 in 10 youth athletes in Canada will sustain a concussion while playing club volleyball each year.” said Kerry MacDonald, Director,…

Concussion Newsletter – November 2019

By championing a mix of “hard goods and soft goods solutions,” Freestyle Canada has prioritized the creation of an environment in which athletes can test their limits without sacrificing safety or risking traumatic brain injuries. Learn more in the SIRC November Concussion Newsletter.

Concussion Prevention Through Innovation

It’s a potent mix: dangerous flips and twists performed by young, boundary-pushing athletes who revel in the sport’s free-spirited culture. More than most sports, concussions are a day-to-day, moment-to-moment risk for the freestyle skiing community. The five demanding disciplines – Aerials, Moguls, Halfpipe, Slopestyle and Big Air – put athletes in dangerous situations, hurtling down…