Decisions made at the national sport level influence participation at the community level. Problems occur when there is misalignment between what is needed for each level and what is decided at the top. Decision-makers should consider how they can generate alignment between all levels in a sports pathway to improve long-term player development.
Use double quotes to find documents that include the exact phrase: "aerodynamic AND testing"
Use double quotes to find documents that include the exact phrase: "aerodynamic AND testing"
Canadian sport organizations develop governing documents and policies as a roadmap to the desired state of operation within their organization. But implementation of this roadmap can be a challenge. Equity, diversity and inclusion are necessary to see meaningful change, especially at the community level where the vast majority of Canadians participate in sport. Effecting grassroots change can help ensure all Canadians can access safe, quality sport and feel that they belong.
Neurogenerative disease is more common in former professional soccer players than in the general population. However, disease risk varies by player position and career length, and this pattern has remained consistent for decades. These findings can help inform strategies to reduce head impact exposure for athletes.
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To create a Safe Sport environment, research with Canadian sport administrators points to a need for changes to policy and education at all levels. Focusing on harm prevention is not sufficient. Sport organizations also need to promote positive values and human rights.
In June, on Canada’s Clean Air Day, SIRC took a look at air pollution and how it can affect the healthy and performance of outdoor sport participants. Today, is the International Day of Clean Air and it bares reminding that as sport leaders we have a responsibility to understand air pollution and its impact on athlete health.
Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) can be lifesaving, but only when the public is willing and able to use them. A recent study of community sports clubs in Ireland demonstrated that only one-fifth of club members were willing to use an AED. However, after only 2 hours of training, 77.5% were willing to use the lifesaving device.
Strategic planning can be a helpful tool in navigating changing and dynamic environments, particularly as community sport organizations begin the process of COVID-19 recovery. Talking to stakeholders, evaluating club resources, considering the community profile, and examining the competition are important steps to consider when beginning the strategic planning process.
Sport organizations play an important role in engaging and empowering Black girls and women in sport. By building stronger relationships with communities and recognizing and addressing existing barriers, such as language, cost and social or cultural norms, organizations can support Black women and girls as coaches and athletes.
In 2021, the Government of Canada announced it would invest $80 million to support increased participation in organized community sport, particularly among underrepresented groups including Black, Indigenous, 2SLGBTQQIA+ and new Canadians. Careful planning is required to enhance these groups’ participation opportunities in community sport. Sport leaders can use strategic planning as an important tool for when sport clubs seek to attract new members.
As the effects of climate change continue to grow, so do its effects on local sports. A recent study found that community-level sport clubs are particularly vulnerable to extreme climate events through damage to playing fields, increased injury risks, and increased operating costs. Adapting sport management practices to counter these changes will be critical for local sport organizations to demonstrate resilience.