Future of Sport in Canada Commission 

Many of us play or at least take part in various sports and quite often we wonder what the state of sport in Canada might look like for generations to come.

One thing that is keeping many young persons out of sport is the continually increase of the cost for not just registration but also equipment as young athletes outgrow this at a rapid pace.

Many ask “where will this end” and simply put it won’t as the overall cost is implemented for tournaments, travel and going a step farther coaches are now being paid for their services.

I am hearing that many are being paid “under the table” so as to avoid income tax which is listed in the overall operating cost for clubs.

I have been told that there is no way in which the Federal Government let alone the Provincial Government’s can control this method of payment to individuals which is an ongoing task.

Personally, I have no issue with this as long as the teaching is getting done with quality instruction and then we hear that some of the rules of a “background check” aren’t being followed as strictly as they should.

That I’ll never know and as Adults all we can do is hope that today’s youth are being taught in a safe environment regardless of the sport.

Say what you will and politics aside I for one am pleased that Carla Qualtrough Canada’s Minister of Sport and Disability has the best interest of Canada’s Athletes first and not last.

We continue to have several ponder Hockey Canada and past issues that they have apparently fixed but many wonder if this will ever be fixed in the near future?

We all know that politics is something that not everyone can agree on and given the negativity of the world just once sit back and reflect on the future of sport in Canada.

I recently received the following from the Canadian Paralympic Committee and the Canadian Paralympic Athletes’ Council

Enjoy the read and if you have any questions reach out to her office either in Ottawa or Delta.

The Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) wholeheartedly welcomes and supports the announcement made by Minister Qualtrough today, regarding the creation of the Future of Sport in Canada Commission.

Modeled after the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and focused on survivor experiences and trauma-informed approaches, this Commission marks a significant stride in promoting safety and inclusivity in Canadian sport. 

We are committed to actively participating in this process, offering our full cooperation and support, and leveraging the invaluable experience and leadership of our athletes to ensure that our approach to athlete safety and well-being is continually evolving, improving, and aligning with the Commission’s focus. 

“This initiative, with its emphasis on safety in sport and its intersectional and inclusive approach, is a crucial step in redefining the sporting landscape in Canada,” said Erica Gavel, Chair of the Canadian Paralympic Athletes’ Council. 

She continues “We want to acknowledge the courage of the athletes who have shared their experiences. Their voices are not only driving this much-needed change but also shaping a healthier future for Canadian sport in its broadest context.” 

“Our 10-year strategy, a roadmap for the future of Paralympic sport in Canada, aligns perfectly with the Commission’s goals,” said Marc-André Fabien, President of the Canadian Paralympic Committee.

He continued “We are dedicated to fostering a culture where the dignity and rights of athletes are paramount. This Commission is a first step in a series of initiatives aimed at driving meaningful change, addressing issues like racism and ensuring diversity in its broadest representation within our sport community.” 

The Commission’s approach to Safety in Sport resonates with our commitment to diversity and inclusion. 

The appointment of an Independent Legal Expert to head this Commission underscores our pledge to continue our work in making Canadian sport a welcoming space for all, with athlete experiences and perspectives leading the way. 

We are dedicated to working collaboratively and transparently with the Commission, the Ministerial Athlete Advisory Committee, 

Sport Canada, our National Sport Organizations, and most importantly, our athletes, to contribute positively to this transformative initiative and ensure the sport system is both compliant and accountable.

We will maintain an open line of communication with our community, providing regular updates and engaging in meaningful dialogue throughout this process. 

The Future of Sport in Canada Commission will not only address current challenges but will actively shape the future of Canadian sport. 

These measures will lead to a singular, unifying goal: making sport in Canada the sport we all want it to be. 

A sport that is safe and inclusive for all. Through these efforts, we envision a future where Canadian sport is synonymous with positivity, excellence, and respect – a beacon for others to follow. 

We are committed to working together with others to create a positive sport environment in Canada, one where every athlete, coach, and community member can thrive. 

Media Contact:

Erin Blaskie, Director, Marketing & Communications

Canadian Paralympic [email protected] / 613-852-7301