Sport Intelligence: The Canadian Perspective
An all-access pass to the inner workings of Canada’s vibrant sport sector brought to you by Canada’s Sport Information Resource Centre.
Sport Intelligence: The Canadian Perspective
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SIRC offers to unique podcasts, in each of Canada’s official languages. Intelligence sportive : la perspective canadienne is SIRC’s French-language podcast, which offers unique insights from industry experts that are francophone! Don’t worry, you won’t miss out on the insights! Check out the articles below for each episode of SIRC’s podcasts.
FUN MAPS: Rethinking the joy of sport
For many, sport is synonymous with fun. Its why children sign up for soccer leagues, join hockey teams, and try out for rowing clubs. But what exactly makes sport fun? And how can coaches and program leaders ensure that fun isn’t just an afterthought, but a core component of the sport experience? Dr. Erin Sharpe, Associate Professor in the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies at Brock University and Manager of Recreational Youth Rowing Program at St. Catharines Rowing Club, has been tackling these questions head-on. And her approach? Using a tool called FUN MAPS.
Beyond the game: The power of positive psychology in sport
In the world of elite sports, the focus has traditionally been on performance metrics, rigorous training regimens, and strategies for winning. But what if the secret to sustained success lies not just in physical prowess, but in the mind? Enter positive psychology, a field that seeks to unlock human potential by fostering mental resilience, well-being, and personal growth. Dr. Linda Pagani, a professor at the University of Montreal’s School of Psychoeducation, describes positive psychology as more than just an optimistic outlook.
The Unspoken Battle: How Body Image Shapes Sport Performance
For athletes, sport is about pushing limits of skill, strength, and endurance. But what happens when the greatest challenge isn’t physical at all? For many, especially young athletes, the most persistent struggle exists in their own minds: body image. Dr. Catherine Sabiston, a professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education at the University of Toronto and the Director of the Mental Health and Physical Activity Research Centre, has spent years studying the intricate relationship between body image and athletic performance.
Cirque du Soleil: Bridging the gap between athletes and artists
Cirque du Soleil is renowned for its breathtaking performances, combining artistry, athleticism, and storytelling to create unparalleled spectacles. But how does this world-class organization find and transform its talent? André Lachance, Senior Director Casting and Artist Contract Management at Cirque du Soleil, shared insights into the fascinating process of talent acquisition and development, where elite athletes transition into Cirque’s dazzling world.
Beyond the Stats: Understanding Sleeper Athletes with Dr. Joe Baker
In a sports culture obsessed with early success, Canada may be missing out on some of the best athletes, sleepers, those who develop later, defying the traditional timelines of talent. Dr. Joe Baker, a leading expert on talent development and professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education at the University of Toronto, says it’s time to change the narrative around how we identify and nurture athletic potential.