Indirect detection of doping in sports

The athlete biological passport (ABP) was created to assist with the detection of doping in sports. Unlike traditional detection methods which are one-off and direct, the ABP is an electronic record of an athlete’s biological attributes, developed from multiple samples taken over time. Variables are monitored closely to identify any changes that may indicate the…

Post-concussion communication

When an athlete experiences a concussion, it is common for teammates and coaches to provide well-intentioned forms of support that are met with resistance from the athlete. According to new research, an effective strategy to support a concussed athlete is to ask them what they need from you. Every athlete is unique: They may want…

Strategies for LGBTQ+ inclusivity in sport

LGBTQ+ youth often feel unsafe in sport environments. Coaches and sport leaders seeking to be inclusive need to recognize that participation alone doesn’t mean inclusion. Engaging in education and self-reflection, partnering with advocacy groups, recruiting and supporting LGBTQ+ individuals in leadership roles and evaluating the inclusivity of organizational policies are all ways that sport leaders…

Combating gender-based violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) is violence that is committed against someone based on their gender identity or expression. Canadian Women & Sport offers 6 ways in which gender equity in sport can help reduce gender-based violence, including clear policies, education, men’s allyship, and mentorship and sponsorship of women.

Athlete thoughts on high performance sport culture

Listening to athletes is an important part of enacting cultural change in sport. Canadian researchers interviewed athletes to get their perspective on when the feel safe versus unsafe in high performance sport settings. Inappropriate coach behaviour, an inattentive system, lack of resources and exclusion by teammates make athletes feel unsafe, while knowledgable and supportive coaches…

Anti-racism in sport

According to The Anti-Racism in Sport Campaign, addressing racism in sport should include intentional anti-racism awareness. This can happen through sharing stories, speaking out, facilitating discussions with racialized and religious minorities, and the creation and implementation of policy to hold individuals accountable. Most importantly, all of these activities should be done openly and regularly.

Sledding and tobogganing

Sledding and tobogganing are fun ways to stay active this winter. Proper safety strategies are important for preventing sledding and tobogganing-related accidents. Some safety tips include wearing a helmet, ensuring the hill is free of any obstacles and using sledding equipment which is in good condition.

How to avoid groupthink in sport environments

Groupthink is when members of a group allow their desire for cohesion to override their motivation to critically consider alternative courses of action. Sports teams and organizations are vulnerable to conformity because of a strong desire to belong and fit in. To avoid groupthink, encourage diversity on your team, create an enviroment where athletes feel…

Acquired Cognitive-Communication Disorder and Post-Concussion Syndrome

After a single concussion 15-30% of individuals do not recover within the expected time frame. This experience is termed “Post-Concussion Syndrome.” During this time, some athletes may experience challenges with cognition and communication, known as “Acquired Cognitive-Communication Disorder.” Speech-language pathologists can serve as an important part of the post-concussion care team to assist with cognitive…

Mental health at the Olympic and Paralympic Games

One hundred days before the Tokyo Olympic Games, World Champion rower Caileigh Filmer was ready to quit her sport. But instead, she decided to inspire others by sharing first-hand accounts of her experience with depression. Discover how the people responsible for mental health for Team Canada learned from the experiences of athletes like Filmer to…