Talking to athletes about cannabis

Since the legalization of cannabis in Canada in 2018, it has become imperative for sport organizations to communicate research and policy regarding cannabis usage to athletes. This article summarizes what athletes and organizations need to know about the current state of cannabis in sport.

Canadian high performance athletes’ use of retirement resources

Earning a roster position as a nationally carded athlete is no easy task (“carding” refers to financial assistance from Sport Canada’s Athlete Assistance Program). Athletes spend years working on their craft to represent Canada on the international stage. The length of time spent in the role as a national athlete varies across sports and between…

Concussion education

Concussion education can help improve athletes’ concussion knowledge and attitude towards reporting a suspected concussion to a coach or other adult. Research shows that concussion education may be particularly effective when delivered in more than one way, for example, through a video and a team presentation. When planning concussion education for your team or organization,…

The impact of energy crises on sport accessibility

Energy crises are further impacting the affordability and accessibility of sport. A coalition of nearly 200 sport bodies, health organizations and athletes in the UK has pressed for additional support to pools, gyms and other sporting facilities. These facilities face a reduction of services or even closure due to rising energy costs.

The implementation of a sport-based, trauma-sensitive, youth development program in a national community organization

Project summary  Community organizations can adopt sport-based, trauma-sensitive, youth development programming to support underserved youth who face high risk of traumatic exposure. These programs involve leaders who create safe environments, recognize and respond to youth’s trauma-related distress, and promote youth’s healing and resilience-building.   In partnership with BGC Canada, a national non-profit community organization that serves…

Safe, quality and values-based: 3 approaches to optimize sport experience

Highlights  There are several evidence-informed approaches to sport delivery that researchers and sport organizations encourage, and that you can engage with, to promote positive experiences and combat harmful cultures in sport and society  Quality sport, values-based sport and safe sport are 3 approaches to sport program delivery that are gaining traction and popularity at all…

A culture change is coming in youth sport: How sport organizations can incorporate Sport for Development strategies

Highlights: This article draws on recent insights from the Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Foundation’s Change the Culture, Change the Game report, offering practical recommendations for sport organizations and administrations looking to advance a more positive culture for youth in sport The authors make the case for all sport environments to incorporate a Sport For…

Clearing the air around air quality and outdoor sport safety

Highlights In 2022, Health Canada and the Sport Information Resource Centre partnered to create educational resources to raise awareness about air quality and the safety of outdoor sport participation Air pollution can impact the health of all Canadians, but some groups, including people engaged in outdoor sport and exercise, are at an increased risk Monitoring…

Earth Day in the sport sector

Tomorrow is Earth Day and the sport sector has a role in protecting our environment and embracing sustainability. The Canadian Olympic Committee has compiled a list of “Team Canada Climate Action Resources” that showcases how Team Canada is doing its part to protect the planet.

Volunteering in Sport and Recreation

This week is National Volunteer Week. Volunteers play a important role in the day-to-day operations for many community and non-profit organizations. Research shows that over 25% of Canadian adults volunteer in a sport-related capacity. Volunteers aid in the delivery systems for sport, recreation and physical activity programming at all levels. The contribution of volunteers helps…