June 24, 2013 (Park City, UT) – In a sure sign of the coming 2014 Olympic Winter Games season, members of the US National ski jumping team have arrived in Europe to begin their first international preparation period.
After leaving the US Sunday, the team comprised of Peter Frenette, Anders Johnson, Nick Alexander and Nick Fairall, will spend two weeks in Europe at the ski jumps of Stams, AUT and Kranj, SLO, they will be accompanied by USA Head Jumping Coach Clint Jones.
In an interview today Coach Jones told the USASJ News Bureau the camp was part of a very important season build up, noting…”We will be spending a lot of team with our new European-based coach Bine Norcic, which will be very exciting and we will be dealing with a host of issues like organizing rental vans for the season, training plans and locations, and gathering all the equipment from skis, to suits to bindings. We will be looking to test a lot of new equipment during the summer, and we will be looking to get some solid training with the many European teams who will also be in the area.”
Jones also stressed the importance of the US team to have close contact with the Europeans early in the summer, “so that they know exactly how high the level of competition is going into the summer training phase. This will help provide great motivation for our team, not only for the four athletes that are with us in Europe, but also those that they will be training with when they return.”
June 21, 2013 – Be a part of building a national brand. Headquartered in Toronto, the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) is a national, private, not-for-profit organization committed to high-performance sports excellence. We are the largest private supporter of high performance sport in Canada and we are responsible for all aspects of Canada’s involvement in the Olympic Movement, including participation in the Olympic and Pan American Games.
The Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) is seeking a talented designer for its Toronto office to play a major role in continuing to strengthen the Canadian Olympic Team brand. Working closely with the Senior Manager, Brand Marketing, in Toronto, ON, the Graphic Designer will play an integral role in the areas of design, including print and electronic media for the Canadian Olympic Committee. This individual will also work very closely with all other departments to support our overall marketing strategy, particularly Marketing Partnerships, Communications, Digital Strategy, Education, Youth and Community Outreach and the Canadian Olympic Foundation. Strong layout and typography skills are essential to success, as is passion for design. Photography, illustration, and animation skills are an asset and a passion for sport is preferred.
Core Responsibilities and Priorities:
• Create innovative design work and solutions that meet our internal design requirements
• Assist with providing graphic design solutions
• Assist the Senior Manager Brand Marketing with the branding of annual COC signature events (Hall of Fame Gala Dinner & Induction Ceremony, Heroes Tour, Olympic Day, Team Send-Off, Welcome Home, Community Outreach Program, Golf Tournaments, etc.)
• Partner with COC departments on graphic design elements including, but not limited to, Communications, Athlete Services, Finance, Operations and Olympic Preparation and Games to ensure the successful delivery of brand initiatives.
• Design templates for all COC departments that will be used internally as well as for select client groups;
• Assist web development with graphic content for online applications for internal and public viewing (i.e. SharePoint and Olympic.ca and all micro sites);
• Liaison with external agencies as required.
Qualifications and Critical Skills:
• Post-secondary training in visual design;
• 3 years’ related experience in an agency or marketing environment (recent college or university graduates with strong internship experience are also encouraged to apply)
• Proficient in the latest editions of InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator and Adobe Acrobat;
• Ability to work in both Mac and PC platforms;
• Video editing and motion graphic capability;
• Ability to constantly stay abreast of emerging graphic trends and developments in software;
• Previous experience working with multiple applications including print, web, signage, advertising and presentations. A portfolio demonstrating work experience is mandatory;
• Excellent interpersonal/communications, analytical and organizational skills;
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment;
• Self-motivated, creative team player;
• Communication and problem solving skills;
• Attention to detail;
• Bilingualism (English/French) an asset
Compensation:
Competitive salary based on experience, excellent benefits package.
Application Deadline: July 2, 2013
Contact:
Please send all cover letters, resumes and links to portfolios by July 2, 2013 to applications@olympic.ca citing the position title in the subject line. No telephone calls please. We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
June 05, 2013 (Bennington, Vermont) – Olympic Day with Olympian Andy Newell, presented by The Bank of Bennington, is a celebration and international effort to promote fitness and well-being in addition to Olympic ideals of Fair Play, Perseverance, Respect and Sportsmanship.
When: June 23, 2013, 9-11:30 AM
Where: Willow Park – lower Pavilion
Event Details:
– Ages 15 and under
– Enjoy games and fun Olympic style events
– Create your own Olympic medals
– Photo signing with local Olympian Andy Newell
– Come any time between 9-11:30am
May 30, 2013 (St. Petersburg, Russia) – The presentation of the Olympic and Paralympic medals, which will be awarded at the Sochi 2014 Winter Games, took place in St. Petersburg today during the 11th “SportAccord” Annual International Sports Convention.
Guests of honor at the ceremony, which is often held in the year before the Games, included IOC Coordination Commission Chairman Jean-Claude Killy, CEO of the IPC Xavier Gonzalez and President and CEO of the Sochi 2014 Organizing Committee Dmitry Chernyshenko.
The presentation ceremony was opened by Dmitry Chernyshenko, who gave the audience the main facts and figures about the Sochi 2014 medals and highlighted their uniqueness. The Olympic and Paralympic medals were then displayed and members of the public were able to view them up-close.
The Sochi 2014 Olympic and Paralympic medals are unique and feature the Sochi 2014 “Patchwork Quilt” – a mosaic of national designs from the various cultures and ethnicities of the Russian Federation. The medals have been carefully crafted to depict the landscape of Sochi from the sun’s rays reflecting through the snowy mountain tops onto the sandy beaches of the Black Sea coast. These contrasts in Russia’s natural landscape are embodied in the medals and will be an everlasting souvenir for the champions. The unusual combination of metal and polycarbonate lends to the medals a sense of lightness and distinctive beauty.
The front of the medal features the Olympic rings. The reverse contains the name of the competition in English, and the logo of the Sochi 2014 Games. The official name of the Games in Russian, English and French is engraved on the medal’s rim.
The Olympic Winter Games in Sochi will set a new record in terms of the number of sports events on show, so a record number of about 1,300 medals will be manufactured.
The Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games will feature 12 new medal events including men’s and women’s snowboard and ski slopestyle, the ski halfpipe, snowboard parallel special slalom, womens’ ski jumping, the figure skating team event, the luge relay and the biathlon mixed relay.
The Sochi 2014 Paralympic medals were designed in the same style. The form of the award symbolizes the integrity and strength of spirit of Paralympians, who are an example of the unlimited possibilities of humankind.
One side of the medals features the Paralympic symbol (three hemispheres, “agitos”); the reverse features the logo of the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games and the name of the competition in English. The official name of the Games in Russian and English is engraved on the medal rim. The awards also contain inscriptions in Braille for the visually impaired.
A set of Sochi 2014 medals traditionally includes a bronze, silver, and gold medal. Depending on the type of metal used, the Sochi 2014 Olympic medals weigh between 460 and 531 grams, and the Paralympic medals – between 585 and 686 grams, due to their design peculiarities. Each medal is 10 mm thick and 100 mm in diameter.
May 09, 2013 (Ottawa, ON) – The Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) is pleased to announce the 2013-14 recipients of the Para-Equipment Fund, supported by Invacare Canada, as well as the Recruitment Program Fund. Both funds are supported by the Government of Canada’s Sport Support Program.
The Para-Equipment Fund (PEF) delivers grants of up to $5,000 to national and provincial sport organizations as well as local level clubs to purchase adapted equipment – for sports such as wheelchair basketball, sledge hockey, or skiing for people with visual impairments, for example – to enable people with a disability to take part in sport. Grants awarded help the sport organizations cover 50 per cent of the total cost of the equipment.
This year, 42 sport organizations representing 17 parasports in regions across Canada received a total of $154,679.17 from the Para-Equipment Fund. Due to the matching nature of the Fund by the recipient, a total of $309,358.34 will be invested into the parasport system.
“Our involvement in the Para-Equipment fund allows us at Invacare and our performance wheelchair team at Top End to work towards our goal of making life’s experiences possible,” said Vince Morelli, General Manager of Invacare Canada, a leading manufacturer of wheelchairs for both everyday use and competitive sports. “The Fund will help nurture the hopes and dreams of more kids with disabilities, allowing them to participate and be active through Invacare’s product lines – and maybe even one day compete for Canada at the Paralympic Games!”
The Recruitment Program Fund (RPF) awards grants of up to $10,000 to sports organizations to financially support the creation of a new sports program or the expansion of an existing successful program that provides a positive introductory sports experience for participants
with a disability.
Funds may be used towards enhancing program options, such as facility rental space, coaching, volunteer training and more.
This year, 28 sport organizations representing 18 parasports in regions across Canada received a total of $196,151.00 from the Recruitment Program Fund.
Between the two funds, a total of $350,830.17 in funds will be distributed to 60 sport organizations across the country (10 organizations are receiving both funds), representing 21 different sports. Including the matching of $154,679.17 by recipients of the Para-Equipment Fund, a total of $505,509.34 will be invested in sports programs and sports equipment for people with a disability in Canada.
The complete list of recipients of the 2013-14 Para-Equipment Fund and Recruitment Program Fund is posted and downloadable HERE.
“Supporting the Para-Equipment Fund and Recruitment Programs Fund, and playing a leading role in the inclusion of people with disabilities in sport are things our Government is proud to do,” said the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport). “By providing these opportunities for people with disabilities, we are helping develop athletes who could one day proudly wear the maple leaf and represent Canada on the international stage.”
“Making the benefits of sport available to all is critical to Canada becoming a world leading Paralympic nation,” said David Legg, President of the Canadian Paralympic Committee. “To do this it is essential to make available quality introductory sport programming and adapted sports equipment in order to give those with a disability a place to play and a positive sport experience. I would like to congratulate the recipients of the Para-Equipment Fund and the Recruitment Program Fund, and thank Invacare Canada, the Government of Canada, and all involved in parasport for their dedication and efforts in helping develop Canada’s parasport system.”
May 02, 2013 (Montreal, QC) – The Canadian Olympic Committee has several job openings based at its Montreal headquarters, including Athletic Marketing Manager, Athlete Services Manager, Games Executive Director, and Sport Executive Director. Follow the links below for more information about each job posting.
Manager, Athlete Marketing
Organization: Canadian Olympic Committee
Location: Montreal
Deadline Date: May 14, 2013
Date Posted: April 29, 2013
For job description visit HERE.
Manager, Athlete Services
Organization: Canadian Olympic Committee
Location: Montreal
Deadline Date: May 14, 2013
Date Posted: April 29, 2013
For job description visit HERE.
Executive Director, Games
Organization: Canadian Olympic Committee
Location: Montreal
Deadline Date: May 14, 2013
Date Posted: April 29, 2013
For job description visit HERE.
Executive Director, Sport
Organization: Canadian Olympic Committee
Location: Montreal
Deadline Date: May 14, 2013
Date Posted: April 29, 2013
For job description visit HERE.
March 13, 2013 (Ottawa, ON) – Own the Podium is an innovative independent organization that was created to bring together the key partners involved in leading and funding high performance sport in Canada. The mandate of Own the Podium is to help more Canadian athletes win more medals at the Summer and Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. Own the Podium provides technical expertise and advice to national sport organziations in support of Canada’s podium performance goals.
Position: Director, Winter Sport Reports to: Chief Executive Officer Location: Calgary, AB Application Deadline: 15 April 2013 Term: 4 year contract, start date negotiable
Scope of Position:
Individual responsible for leading the planning and implementation of ‘excellence’ programs for targeted winter sports.
Core Competencies:
• Demonstrates a sense of direction and purpose aligned with OTP’s vision, guiding principles and goals
• Driven by excellence in all facets, strives to be leading edge in own area of expertise and embraces opportunity for continuous improvement
• Continually makes efforts to understand client needs in an inclusive, outreaching, and adaptable manner
• Behaves in an open, transparent, respectful and fair manner and demonstrates these traits through ability to develop effective relationships with diverse groups of people
• Effective at leading and building teams
• Self-monitors work to ensure quality and accuracy
Roles and Responsibilities
1. Manage and mentor the winter high-performance advisors, as they undertake their responsibilities with NSOs, CSIs, ISTs and others
2. Assist with OTP interventions with client groups when and where appropriate.
3. Manage technical specialists (i.e. video analysts) working with the winter program
4. Build working partnerships with the winter sports to ensure common vision, goals and strategies to achieve excellence in targeted sports
5. Work effectively with Sport Canada, the COC,CPC, CSC/CSIs, IST staff and others to accomplish various tasks
6. Contribute to the establishment of annual business plans and be accountable for implementing these plans.
7. Work effectively with and under the direction of the CEO and with colleagues in other parts of the program, and specifically with the summer OTP program to ensure common approaches, policies and unified leadership for high-performance sport
8. Ensure staff reporting to the Director are fully integrated into sport science, medicine, research, technology, coaching and other OTP initiatives, and promote these opportunities to client groups
9. Formulate funding recommendations; lead the annual and other reviews of the winter sports (and assist with CSI and CSC reviews) to identify priorities that will produce podium results.
10. With others, develop new policies and programs that will assist achieving excellence at the Olympic and Paralympic Games
11. Promote excellence in Canadian sport and contribute to national communications strategies and programs to do so.
12. Undertake program evaluations during Games, training camps and competitions
13. Undertake intelligence gathering on international issues, trends, results etc.
Qualifications
• University Degree or College Diploma.
• Over ten years of experience working at a senior level in the Canadian high-performance sport system.
• Computer Skills and knowledge of the MS Office Suite is required
• Bilingualism is a preferred asset
Compensation
The compensation package will be based on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience.
Application Process
Apply in confidence by sending your cover letter resume by Monday, 15 April 2013 to careers@ownthepodium.org or by mail to:
Own the Podium
Attention: Director, Planning & Operations
Suite 120, 700 Industrial Avenue
Ottawa, ON K1G 0Y9
We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
February 22, 2013 (Devil’s Thumb Ranch, CO) – Check out these videos of Alpina’s latest offerings for the 2013/14 season, including Alpina Action and ASK skis and boots, Alpina ESK Pro Skate boot, and Yoko’s 7100 HS Carbon Skate Pole. With its bold graphics and affordable price points, Alpina’s Action skis and ASK line of boots are aimed at a younger market of skiers that Alpina feels has been overlooked in the past. The brand’s newly redesigned ESK Pro skate boot is a top-of-the-line race boot based on a Rottefella sole and features the stiffness, fit, and performance that top level skiers expect.
February 04, 2013 (Ottawa, ON) – The Canadian Paralympic Committee is pleased to announce that the call for nominations for induction into the Canadian Paralympic Hall of Fame is now open.
The Canadian Paralympic Committee encourages all members of the Canadian Paralympic family to look to their members, athletes, coaches, leaders and others for those who could qualify as recipients of this prestigious award in one of three categories: athlete, coach, or builder.
All nominations must be received by the Canadian Paralympic Hall of Fame Selection Committee by March 15, 2013.
Inductees will be invited to attend the Canadian Paralympic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on May 10, 2013 in Toronto.
Nomination criteria
The Canadian Paralympic Hall of Fame Selection Committee will be seeking nominees who meet a number of criteria, including:
Athlete:
– Athletic performance at the Paralympic Games and awards received
– Contribution to the Paralympic Movement Coach:
– Influence on Paralympic athlete or team success
– Technical innovations and contributions to the development of the sport and/or coaching community Builder:
– Has made a distinguished contribution to the development of Paralympic sport
– More information on the Paralympic Hall of Fame and its nomination criteria can be found on the 2013 Nomination and – Declaration Form available at www.paralympic.ca/halloffame
January 31, 2013 (Salt Lake City, UT) – During the second half of the Outdoor Retailer Winter Tradeshow in Salt Lake City, SkiTrax focused on the apparel and accessory side of the Nordic world. The new product offerings brought some exciting product innovations as well as some improvements on old classics.
Auclair One of Auclair’s best developments was its improvements on a classic performance glove, the Finlander. This is an improved version of the glove that Billy Demong used to ski to Olympic gold in Vancouver. Auclair removed the piping on the top of the glove, and this provides a seamless transition between the glove and pole strap. The glove is also more wind resistant than previous models.
Auclair has developed a warmer ski glove called the Alex Races, named after Canadian Alex Harvey. The Alex Races features the same seamless upper as the Finlander, and provides a bit more warmth than other models. Auclair’s lineup is highlighted by its versatility. A new unnamed prototype light glove could be used for roller skiing, while a lobster claw glove named the Alaskan Crab can be used in temperatures well below 0 degrees (F).
Auclair’s most unique development for 2014 is a new glove cover that Velcro attaches over your existing gloves, and can be put on while the skier is attached to pole straps. This allows the skier to remove the glove after a warm-up, and prior to race.
Bjorn Daehlie Clothing
Bjorn Daehlie has a couple of new jackets that they are featuring for 2013/2014. The first is the new Cross jacket, which is the brand’s “do everything” jacket. It features many elements of Bjorn Daehlie clothing that we’ve seen in the past: stretch panels in the shoulders and under the arms for freedom of movement, and wind and water resistant fabric on the front and main panels for warmth. The new features are the reflective elements in the seams for reflectivity. The new Champion jacket is what the US Ski Team will wear next year. The Champion features the same safety/reflective features while providing more of a “racer’s fit”, and waterproof panels.
Sporthill
Sporthill will enter 2014 with more than a few great products. The Whistler jacket is a great light weight pick. Water proof up to 10,000mm of standing water, and windproof up to 40mph, this jacket would be a great pick for a wet and windy fall training day. The Callaghan pant, cut for both men and women, is gram for gram the warmest pant on the market. The pants are made from a woven polypropylene fabric that is slightly thicker than most but is probably the most comfortable pant around. If you are looking for a warm, breathable, comfortable pant that is windproof up to 37mph, look no farther than the Callaghan pant from Sporthill.
2XU
2XU is the official compression wear supplier of the US Ski Team. In the past, people have thought of the base layer as being simply thermal. Compression adds a new element to the base layer. Compression can do multiple things. It can improve posture, influence muscle containment, and influence circulation in particular muscle groups to improve performance. Significant amount of study has been done to determine the positive effects of compression in recovery. Many of the US Ski Team’s top athletes in both alpine and Nordic have used the compression socks for recovery and to promote circulation during long flights to feel rested and quick after a long day of travel. Of course fit is of the utmost importance, so remember to take care when sizing these compression products to ensure you get the perfect fit.
Leki
On the performance side, Leki’s new Strike Carbon pole is an improvement on its popular Shark line. While the Leki poles may be a bit heavier than other high-end brands, they have uncompromising durability, and are as stiff as anything on the market. The poles also feature great and improved grips with a new notch near the top of the grip to provide a more ergonomic fit. The line of gloves has also been built upon. The gloves feature an integrated trigger system so the transition between glove and ski grip in absolutely seamless. Leki is a great brand to pick for performance and functionality.
Thule
Thule has one new box that may catch the Nordic skier’s eye. The Sonic Alpine box for 2014 can accommodate skis up to 213cm long. It features an innovative dimpled design at the nose that has lowered the box’s drag coefficient by 10%. The box is also the lowest profile box that Thule has on the market, with a height profile of only 11in. The box comes in silver and black, and is a great looking box for any Nordic skier looking to stash their gear away from the harmful effects of salty roads.
Sugoi
Sugoi has added a number of products to their line. The company has traditionally had a summer, bike and running focus, but is making a strong move into the winter world this year. The line features a layering system with a number of high tech fabrics. The style is definitely reminiscent of the products that Sugoi has brought to the cycling world, but they bring a level of functionality that rivals all the usual cross country focused brands. Sugoi has also moved into accessories for cross country – everything from socks, hats and gloves, to Velcro ankle wraps to keep snow from getting into your boots. Sugoi is definitely a brand to check out for 2014.
January 30, 2013 (Montebello, QC) – Fast and Female is inviting female cross country ski enthusiasts ages 7 to 19 to attend an afternoon activity of inspiration on February 9 led by 2010 Olympian Madeleine Williams as part of the Canadian Ski Marathon.
Williams, an accomplished cross country skier and runner as well as a current Law student at McGill university will join the girls for an inspirational presentation followed by a personal development exercise on attitude as well as fun dance and yoga sessions. The event will take place at Château Montebello – one of the largest log-built hotels in the world – from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm on Saturday, February 9.
“I’m very excited to be leading the Fast and Female event at the Canadian Ski Marathon because this event is one of our country’s premiere ski events,” said Williams. “This is a great opportunity to reach an audience of racers and recreational skiers alike. Inspiring girls to stay in sport is important to me because sport teaches so many vital life lessons and encourages lifelong health,” concluded the retired World Cup cross country racer who still competes in cross country running.
As a two-day event, the CSM features 160 kilometres of skiing divided into 5 sections each day, with an average of 16 km per section. Skiers of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate and can do so safely. There are checkpoints at the end of each section providing food, first, aid an other services, as well as shuttle buses that run between accommodation and checkpoints throughout each day. The CSM alternates its direction each year, from East to West one year and then West to East the next – between Gatineau and Lachute.
Unlike most ski events, there are no winners or losers in the Canadian Ski Marathon. Each skier can select his/her own level of challenge and try to achieve it. One can ski as little as 12 km or up to the maximum of 160 km over the weekend.
“Chandra Crawford, Madeline Williams and the Fast and Female team have brought an inspiring energy to the 2013 Canadian Ski Marathon,” said Bill Syrros, CSM President “We recognize and respect the level of empowerment and encouragement they’re offering to CSM youth; to ski and to be the best that they can be.”
Fast and Female is a non-profit organization launched in seven years ago by Chandra Crawford – 2006 Olympic gold medalist and honorary president for this year’s edition of the Canadian Ski Marathon. The organization’s mission is to support, encourage and motivate girls to stay in sports. It is believed that girls are six times more likely to drop out of sports than boys by the time they reach 14 years old.
“I’m super pumped that we are able to bring the Fast and Female message of joy for sport to the girls taking part in the Canadian Ski Marathon,” said Crawford who is in Europe for the remainder of the World Cup season. “The CSM is a tremendous event for participants of all ages and abilities to push their limits in a fun and supportive environment. This is extremely in line with Fast and Female’s values of inspiring all girls to follow their passions for sport and continuously challenge themselves to improve as athletes and as human beings. I’m sure all the girls attending the Fast and Female activity will learn a lot from Madeleine’s presence and her lessons on perseverance and determination.”
The February 9 Fast and Female activity in Montebello is open to female youth Canadian Ski Marathon participants as well as non participants from the area.
The cost for the events is $25 for youth and includes a Fast & Female t-shirt, a healthy snack, a magazine subscription (Pedal or SkiTrax) and an autographed poster. Online registration is open until February 8 at lunch time HERE or at www.fastandfemale.com.
As a complement to the event, Fast and Female and the Canadian Ski Marathon are also partnering to run a Marathon Girl Contest. As part of the contest, girls ages 7 to 19 registered in the Canadian Ski Marathon are invited to submit a short paragraph on what makes them exemplary Fast and Female Marathon Girls. Ten young women will be selected as part of this contest and will be rewarded with a free Fast and Female Buff. Entries in the contest can be sent to info@fastandfemale.com.
For more information about the Canadian Ski Marathon and to register, click HERE.
January 28, 2013 – While it sometimes doesn’t feel like it with the lack of snow, we’re jumping into the thick of the race season and there are a lot of events in the coming weeks. Over the next two months, Boulder Nordic Sport (BNS) will be providing race service around the United States, at Masters’ World Championships in Asiago, Italy, as well as providing wax recommendations for a huge selection of races, big and small. Check bouldernordic.com for the latest wax recommendations and racing updates.
The BNS Service Team brings an superior level of experience and expertise to these events (including work at the Olympics, World Championships, World Cup and NCAA Championships). Our goal is to provide World Cup-level service so you can relax and prepare for your event, confident that your skis will be the fastest they can be.
BNS Race Wax Service is $85 for domestic events with a $10 discount for signing up early online. This service includes: full base preparation, HF paraffin, pure fluoro powder, top-coat, and structure; we always test extensively to determine the fastest wax and structures. Not only do you get fastest skis possible prepared by professionals, but you don’t have to lug around your wax gear or buy expensive waxes. You can relax and prepare for your race while your competitors stress about their skis and spend hours on their feet waxing.
If our service staff is not at your race or you prefer to wax your own skis, no problem – just check bouldernordic.com for our latest wax recommendations and/or visit us on-site at the BNS Mobile trailer to pick up the waxes and tools you need to complete the job.
BNS Race Service Director and two-time SuperTour champion David Chamberlain just hit the road in the BNS Mobile trailer heading for the Midwest. Look for David at these races:
– Noquemanon Jan 26
– City of Lakes Loppet Feb 2-3
– Mora Vasaloppet Feb 10
– American Birkebeiner Feb 23
BNS founder Nathan Schultz, will be covering:
– Colorado Governor’s Cup Jan 26
– Master’s Nationals in Sun Valley Jan 30-31
– Boulder Mountain Tour Feb 2
– The Owl Creek Chase Feb 9-10
– World Masters in Italy Feb 15-22
– Snow Mountain Stampede March 2
We will also be covering local events and offering race wax service out of our shops in Boulder, CO and Portland, ME, so bring your skis in and we’ll make them fast.
Also, to help you save on the cost of shipping your skis to our Boulder location, skis can be dropped off for stone grinding at the Boulder Mountain Tour, the American Birkebeiner, and any events BNS is covering in Colorado. We can also deliver skis to races if you need some fast new boards or grinds before your big event. Enjoy the racing, and let us know how we can make it more fun for you!
January 25, 2013 – A great coach can help athletes make the jump from having a promising career to having an Olympic medal. Much time, effort, and research has been put into discovering the best ways of motivating athletes and training their bodies and minds to excel beyond previous human capability in sporting activities. Coaching isn’t just for world-class athletes, though. A middle school football team or a recreational cycling class can be great ways to build athletic prowess, and professional coaches know how to help athletes at all skill levels get the best performance from themselves and their teammates. The sites on this list are kept by highly motivated, skilled, and well-trained coaches who have decided to bring their message of fitness and training to the web.
Check out the list of 100 Great Sites for Coaches as compiled by SportsManagementDegree.org HERE.
January 24, 2013 (Toronto, ON) – The Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) is pleased to announce that Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited (CTC) is now going for gold as a multi-year Premier partner supporting Paralympic athletes across Canada, through to 2016.
“Canadian Tire is an iconic brand and we are thrilled to welcome them to the Canadian Paralympic family,” said David Legg, President of the Canadian Paralympic Committee.
“Not only will Canadian Tire’s investment in high performance sport help our athletes achieve excellence at the Paralympic Games, it will also help us foster the next generation of Canadian athletes through their support of our grassroots funding programs, helping make the benefits of sport accessible to more Canadians.”
As part of this partnership, the CPC will work with CTC to increase opportunities for Canadians with a disability to participate in organized sport and active living.
“At Canadian Tire, we believe in the power of sport to inspire greatness and change the lives of all Canadians,” said Duncan Fulton, Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited and Chief Marketing Officer, FGL Sports, Ltd. “From playground to podium, we will play a role in helping Canadian families and amateur athletes succeed and are pleased to work with the Canadian Paralympic Committee in communities across Canada to promote participation in sport and active living.”
Benoit Huot and Summer Mortimer, multiple gold medallist swimmers from the London 2012 Paralympic Games, were onsite for the announcement of the partnership, which will continue through the next two Paralympic Games – Sochi 2014 and Rio 2016.
“To achieve greatness requires commitment and Canadian Tire has shown its commitment in spades here today, to Paralympians and to the country itself, by helping ensure Canada’s strong and vibrant sporting heritage,” said Huot, a 19-time Paralympic medalist and Canada’s closing ceremony flag bearer at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.
Mortimer, who won four swimming medals in London, added: “It is thanks to the investment by corporate partners such as Canadian Tire that I can maintain my focus and ensure I am properly prepared to represent Canada on the world stage with my teammates at the next Paralympic Games in Rio.”
In addition to its agreement with the CPC, CTC also confirmed new and expanded partnership agreements with the Canadian Soccer Association, Skate Canada, Hockey Canada, Alpine Canada Alpin, Canada Snowboard, all designed to inspire Canadians and encourage lifelong healthy and active living through the ‘power of sport.’
CTC and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities also plan to work with Own the Podium and the Canadian Olympic Foundation to help more kids get in the game.
January 16, 2013 (Haverhill, MA) – Swix Sport is set to launch a new adjustable pole collection for the 2013/14 season called Swix Sonic, designed to be the most advanced adjustable pole to ever hit the market.
With an emphasis on detail and advanced materials, the design has been tested and manipulated to guarantee superior performance with stiffness and ease of use never seen before in an adjustable pole.
At the heart of the pole is a revolutionary new locking system that will change the way people use poles.
The Swix Sonic collection will include four different models ranging in size and price from $99 up to $249. The collection ranges from aluminum poles at the lower end to lightweight carbon poles at the high end – all featuring the new adjustable locking system.
The advanced construction of the new Swix Sonic poles includes four unique elements: – Handle and Strap – Easily adjustable handle and strap system with universal ergonomic fit for hand and glove. The handle offers two unique functions. A beveled straight edge is designed into the handle to help clean the top surface of skies for packed snow and can also be used to adjust rando bindings without having to bend over. – Adjustable Locking System – Provides 100 percent reliable fixation and intuitive usage. Constructed with a silicone-coated grip that will stay soft even in the most extreme conditions. Unlike other adjustable poles, the locking system is located higher up on the pole to improve performance and reduce weight. The all alloy locking mechanism can be completely disassembled without tools for bombproof durability and reliability in the backcountry. – Disc Basket System – Features interchangeable baskets for varying snow conditions made from super lightweight PVC coated nylon that provides for superior swing weight. – Shaft – Made from an ultra-lightweight composite carbon technique to ensure maximum strength stiffness and durability. The collection offers four models ranging from the R4, which includes aluminum shafts, up to the R1, made with 100% Carbon-fiber in top and bottom portions of the pole. With over 25 years of racing heritage, Swix Sport has extensive experience in composite and aluminum racing pole construction.
“We’ve been studying the pole market for the past four years with the goal of building the best adjustable pole in the market,” said Steve Poulin, President of Swix Sport USA.
Poulin said one key area emerged as the company researched the market – a need for better locking mechanism’s on adjustable poles. Swix Sonic features a locking technology that provides the industry with a more stable, easy to use locking mechanism.
“No stone has been left unturned and every detail has been thought through in the design and execution of these poles.”
Swix Sport will have samples for all of the Swix Sonic models in quantity available at the Outdoor Retailer All Mountain Demo Day, January 22 at Solitude Mountain Resort and the SIA On-Snow Demo Days, February 4-5 at Winter Park Resort.
December 27, 2012 (Victoria, B.C.) – After years of preparation, Canadian Sport Centre Pacific is excited to be evolving to Canadian Sport Institute*. The institute designation, recently granted by Sport Canada and Own the Podium, is a reflection of the organization now being a world class Olympic and Paralympic training environment. Leading nations across the globe also boast ‘sport institutes’ for high performance athletes. As a result, the name change indicates Canada’s strength and parity as a sporting nation on a global level.
To build a sport institute, you need excellent personnel, programs and facilities. Through hard work and careful planning, the Canadian Sport Institute has created a facility-based system to service Olympic, Paralympic and up-and-coming athletes across British Columbia. Having everything under one roof is the key to success. From performance planning, biomechanical analysis, physiology and sport nutrition to strength and conditioning, athletic therapy, mental performance consultation and massage therapy, BC-based athletes and coaches have all the help they need to win medals for Canada.
“Through the support of our national and provincial partners, we work to power podium performances for Canada,” explains Wendy Pattenden, CEO of the Canadian Sport Institute. “Now that we are recognized as a sport institute, this designation reiterates our desire to compete and win against the best of the best. Our team is determined to do everything possible to ensure BC and Canadian athletes and coaches succeed on the world stage.”
Canadian Sport Institute’s three main locations are found in Victoria at PISE, in Vancouver at the Creekside Community Recreation Centre, and in Whistler at the Whistler Athletes’ Centre. Here, athletes and coaches are serviced by 60 of the best scientists and practitioners in their fields, some of them Olympic medallists themselves.
A member of the national Institute network (also located in Calgary, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic), Canadian Sport Institute’s reach is province-wide. The Canadian Sport Institute provides provincial oversight on high performance programs and services for athletes and coaches in partnership with viaSport British Columbia and the PacificSport regional sport centres in Northern BC, the Interior, the Fraser Valley, the Okanagan, and on Vancouver Island.
For complete details about the Canadian Sport Institute and all of our programs and services, please visit www.csipacific.ca.
December 27, 2012 (Canmore, AB) – Want to make a difference in the lives of girls in sports? Fast and Female is seeking an Executive Director. The Executive Director is responsible for the efficient and effective management and oversight of the organization’s global operations, including finances, budgeting, programming, marketing, communications, merchandising, fundraising, and staffing. The Executive Director shall ensure that all operations are consistent with the standards set by the Board.
ABOUT FAST AND FEMALE
Fast and Female is a not-for-profit society started in 2005 by Chandra Crawford, 2006 Olympic gold medalist in cross-country skiing. The organization’s mission is to ensure that girls remain supported, motivated, inspired, empowered to stick to sports and the healthy lifestyle. Fast and Female fulfills its mission of “Empowerment Through Sport” by hosting fun-filled, non-competitive initiatives all across North-America aimed at exposing young female athletes to inspiring female Olympians and elite level athletes. The young girls who attend Fast and Female events today will lead in the future, may it be as athletes, coaches, volunteers, parents, and community leaders. For more information about Fast and Female, visit www.fastandfemale.com
ROLE
Executive Director (reports to President and Chairman of the Board)
ACCOUNTABILITIES
Strategy/High level planning
– Oversee the short and longer term planning of Fast and Female programming (events, web-based programming, target groups ¡V youth, coaches, parents, ambassadors).
– Interfaces with Fast and Female Founder and Board to map out a short-term and long term strategies.
– Plans out strategic initiatives and ensures optimal alignment with the interests of all Fast and Female stakeholders (participants, sponsors, donors).
– Develops strategic relations with key NSOs for the development and execution of programming.
Governance
– Plan out annual calendar of meetings.
– Prepare board meeting agendas and compile minutes.
– Prepare board meeting documents (management review, financials).
Finances
– Develops and maintains annual organizational budget as well as event-based budgets.
– Tracks and monitors all income and expenses on a daily basis.
– Issue cheques for invoices due.
– Interfaces with accountant to produce quarterly financial statements for internal purposes with the Board.
– Maintain appropriate relations with third party financial services (Moneris, PayPal, Eventbrite) for the collection of funds.
Programming
– Manage annual programming calendar.
– Establishes key contacts with local event hosting stakeholders.
– Effectively lead the planning, execution and debrief of Fast and Female events.
– Oversee the work of contractors involved in event planning, execution and debrief in other jurisdictions. (USA, Australia, Eastern Canada…) to ensure programming quality and consistency.
www.fastandfemale.com
– Develop, deliver and maintain web-based programming (Fast and Female TV, Fast and Female Facebook page, Fast and Female Power Hour, Fast and Female e-Newsletter, Fast and Female Amazing Tips Seminars for Parents and Coaches, Fast and Female Ambassador program).
– Track programming impact assessment (survey monkey, testimonials…).
Communications, Marketing and Media Relations
– Maintain communications and marketing strategy for the organization as a whole and for the specific programming components (events, Fast and Female TV, Fast and Female Facebook page, Fast and Female Power Hour, Fast and Female e-Newsletter, Fast and Female Amazing Tips Seminars for Parents and Coaches, Fast and Female Ambassador program).
– Manage and optimize communications channels (website, Facebook page, Twitter account, YouTube Channel).
– Ensure consistent usage of the Fast and Female brand guidelines.
– Develop and produce all marketing collateral (posters, logos, cards…).
– Develop and broadcast press releases relating to the organization and its programming.
– Develop and execute a strategy to ensure optimal media exposure for the organization and its supporters.
Fundraising
– Develop a strategy and oversee the successful execution of the retail merchandise program (online and event sales, inventory management, product replenishing, supplier relations, pricing strategies…).
– Develop a strategy and oversee the successful execution of the sponsor-raising and sponsor-retention program (maintain and update sponsor pitch documents, lead pitching initiatives, maintain relations with sponsors, identify prospective sponsors, ensure all contractual agreements with sponsors are fulfilled).
– Develop a strategy and oversee the successful execution of the donor-raising and donor-retention program (maintain and update donor pitch documents, lead pitching initiatives, maintain relations with donors, identify prospective donors, produce reporting documents to meet donors¡¦ needs and expectations).
– Develop a strategy and oversee the successful execution of in-king supplier contributors.
– Develop a strategy and oversee the successful execution of event-based fundraising initiatives (Sports Day in Canada, VIP cocktails, silent auctions…).
– Develop a strategy and oversee the successful application on grants.
Office and Operations
– Interface with third party to secure office space.
– Oversee resource management for contractors when necessary (computers…).
– Interface with key stakeholders for ensuring that the organization maintains appropriate insurance for events, retail program, and other.
– Ensures appropriate insurance coverage is in place for the organization’s activities.
– Keeps abreast of legal and other liability issues that concern the organization.
DESIRED KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS
– 3-5 years of progressive management experience
– Academic background in sports management/ communications/marketing/business/special events
– Strong events planning and hosting experience
– Strong sport background (either as an athlete, coach, or as an event planner)
– Strong comprehension of the sports system
– Strong computer skills (Internet, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, website content management, social media platforms)
– Strong interpersonal/people skills
– Strong communication skills (ability to speak in public in front of large crowds)
– Knowledge of legal and liability issues as they relate to event and brand management
– Basic accounting
– French/English bilingualism a strong asset
– Must be willing to travel
– Must be will to work on weekends and week nights
DESIRED WORK STYLE
– Extremely passionate about girls and sports
– Strong ability to work independently
– Self-directed
– Team Player
– Attention to details
– Can-do attitude
– Flexible mindset
– Highly flexible time commitment
– Honest
– Dependable
– Visionary
– Positive attitude
– Engaging leader
COMPENSATION
– Contract position
– 4 days of work per week (32 hours per week)
– 2 weeks paid vacation
– Salary $40,000 per year (paid out on the 15th and last day of each month = $3,333 per month / $1,666 paid out every second week)
WORK LOCATION
Ideally Canmore, Alberta but open to other locations.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Please submit your resume and cover letter in complete confidence to board@fastandfemale.com prior to January 7, 2012 at midnight.
December 20, 2012 (Canmore, AB) – The Board of Directors of Fast and Female announces the departure of Marie-Hélène (M&H) Thibeault following more than four years of dedication to the program as Executive Director.
M&H, alumni of the Canadian alpine ski team, started with the organization in 2009. At that time, Fast and Female’s program consisted of a single event in cross country skiing reaching 150 young women.
“It is with mixed emotions that I’m stepping down from my role of Executive Director,” said M&H. “The last four years have been extremely enriching for me and definitively surpassed all my expectations with regards to where this fantastic program could go! Much of this awesomeness was achieved thanks to the amazing ambassadors, colleagues, sponsors, donors, volunteers, and supporters who have all contributed in different ways to helping us empower girls through inspiring programming. I’m extremely proud of where the program is presently and I know it’s in a fantastic position to continue growing and reaching more young women.”
In 2012, Fast and Female hosted more than 25 events in Canada, the US and Australia in a broad variety of sports and impacted more than 1,500 young women and their families. In addition to expanding its signature events for young women ages 9 to 19, Fast and Female’s programming has also grown to feature online content such as Fast and Female TV on You Tube and the Fast and Female Facebook page – all of which are intended to support the retention of young women in sports. A new programming element was recently launched called the Fast and Female Power Hour, which hopes to encourage local clubs to host their own small Fast and Female activities to help support the athletic and personal development of their young female members.
“M&H’s work has been impressive on all fronts, but Kikkan and I feel that her rock-solid prioritization of making a difference in the lives of our participants has been amazing,” said Fast and Female President and Founder, Chandra Crawford. “Her passion for empowering young women through sport has brought our programming to thousands of young women. She brought so many great ambassadors and sponsors on board and grew our community. Her deep caring has always kept us in line with the values that matter most,” added the 2006 Olympic gold medalist in cross country ski racing who launched Fast and Female in 2005 out of a need to see more girls stick to sports.
As an MBA graduate, M&H hopes to return to the corporate world in the Calgary region to apply her skills in marketing, communications, brand and culture development, as well as program management. She also hopes to take advantage of the next months to spend time with her family which includes two young children – Thomas (age 4) and Zoe (age 1).
The Fast and Female Board has launched a global search for a new Executive Director and hopes to have a new person in position by mid to late January.
“As the Board of Directors looks ahead, we are looking to bring on board a new Executive Director who can harness Fast and Female’s inspiring message and empower another generation of girls committed to the healthy lifestyle,” said Ted Kalil, Fast and Female Board member and lead on the recruitment process.
The complete job description can be found HERE. The deadline to submit a résumé and cover letter is January 7, 2013.
“While M&H leaves some highly energetic, well-qualified boots to fill, we are excited about the hiring phase and have a lot of support from our Board of Directors as we search for a new force to keep blazing the Fast and Female trail,” concluded Chandra.
M&H will remain in part-time position until a new Executive Director is in place in January.
November 20, 2012 – CAAWS announced today that it is offering twelve grants of $900 to active girls and women and/or organizations offering sport programs targeted to girls and women. For more details and information, please review the submission criteria, application process, deadlines, and frequently asked questions on our website HERE. You can also apply directly by completing the online application form!
Please note that applications will only be accepted between November 19, 2012 and December 7. 2012. Applications received before or after these dates will not be considered. The 2013 WISE Fund recipients will be announced in February 2013.
Stéphanie Parker, Marketing & Project Manager
Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and
Sport and Physical Activity (CAAWS)
Tel: 613-562-5667
Direct Line: 613-562-5800 ext. 6044
Fax: 613-562-5668
E-mail: sparker@caaws.ca
Web: www.caaws.ca
November 15, 2012 – The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) has released its 2011-2012 Annual Report. We encourage you to read our Annual Report to learn more about the exciting initiatives that we worked on this year. As always, we welcome any comments or questions you may have.
“We see ourselves as contributing in three interconnected ways to fair, safe and open sport in Canada. The first way is through our role in protecting the integrity of sport and our administration of the CADP for, and on behalf of, Canadian sport – part of our “acute response system.” The second way is our upstream work on preventing doping and other ethical issues by helping to activate a principle-driven sport system at all levels – our long term “prevention strategy.” And the third way is our role in advocating and facilitating an ethical orientation and approach to all issues in sport. This relies on the use of values and principles to guide decision-making when the rules of sport do not or cannot.”
November 07, 2012 – Athletes, coaches, and parents who see what an amazing sport Nordic Combined is, and know (or are learning) how much of an undertaking it is to become a World Class skier, you are the American Nordic Combined family. You are all invested in the success of American Nordic Combined, both today and in the years to come.
You all know the story, our top athletes are well funded, our developing athletes receive little to none. Who knows what the funding picture will look like in the years to come?
There are just under two weeks remaining in the Drive for 25 (D25) fundraiser. To those of you have gotten involved by signing up as a D25 Ambassador and reaching out to others and/or by donating yourself. Thank you!
Those who have not, American Nordic Combined needs your help.
A group of people who see the need and potential of American Nordic Combined skiing have come together and pooled $15,000 to match up to $15,000, dollar for dollar, during the final 2 weeks of the Drive for 25 (November 15th).
We have less than two weeks to make this happen and to do it we need you all involved.
If you already have a page set up, keep/start spreading the message.
Nordic Combined Matching Grant
A match is on the table for Nordic Combined!
A group of people who see the need and potential of American Nordic Combined skiing have come together and pooled $15,000 to match up to $15,000, dollar for dollar, during the final 2 weeks of the Drive for 25 (November 15th)
Let’s leverage this challenge into $30,000 to support our developing American Nordic Combined athletes to make sure they will have the opportunities they need to build upon the success that Billy, Johnny, Todd, and Bryan have put together.
We can make this happen.
To donate today and take advantage of this opportunity click HERE.
Adam Loomis Insights
My progress from an aspiring junior athlete to a US Ski Team athlete has been directly enabled by the NNF. A few years ago, US Nordic Combiners were either supported by the US Ski Team, or not financially supported at all. Now, as the Ski Team isn’t able to fund all of its athletes and developing athletes, the NNF is stepping in to help cover costs. This branch of funding creates a bridge for athletes to continue past high school towards the A-team level.
After high school I spent two years training in Steamboat Springs, CO. Last year, I was a member of the National Training Group (NTG). The NTG benefits from coaching and training with the USST, but isn’t funded financially. As a NTG member, I spent a month training in Europe in August and traveled to Europe to compete twice in the winter. We also competed in Chicago, Lake Placid, Park City and Whistler, BC last season. It’s easy to see that this kind of travel schedule would be nearly impossible to afford without some sort of outside financial support. This where is where the NNF made all the difference, chipping in to make these trips feasible.
This year, as a member of the US Ski Team, many costs, like coaching are covered. Our European training camps this winter and the upcoming competitions of this winter, however, are not all paid for by the Ski Team. As the NNF continues to grow, we are able to cover more of these costs. I cannot stress enough how beneficial the NNF’s fundraising has been to my career, and it’s equally vital to the entire sport. Someday, I hope that we have the financial resources to cover equipment, coaching and travel costs for all National level Nordic Combined athletes. A huge part of this is the greater community reaching out and supporting its athletes. This support has been awesome to see, and I hope it continues to grow in the future.
There are less that 2 weeks to go in the Drive for 25. The support our athletes has seen so far has been unbelievable but we still have so much to do and to provide our athletes with the support they need to make their and our American Nordic dreams a reality.
Swag for Ambassadors
We have some amazing gear to give away to our top Ambassadors from our sponsors. U23 and Junior Ambassadors who raise $100 will receive a NNF buff from Podiumwear. Ambassadors who rase $250 will receive a NNF headband by Mt. Borah.
Mission
The mission of the National Nordic Foundation (NNF) is to provide support for the athlete development pipeline of US Cross Country and Nordic Combined skiing. The NNF accomplishes this development goal through raising funds and distribution to our “Pillar Projects” that serve the next generation of athletes who represent the United States on the World Stage.
The NNF is a not-for-profit foundation that serves it’s mission to provide funding and support for key Pillar Projects in the Nordic Community.
November 06, 2012 (Ottawa, ON) – Biathlon Canada, the national governing body for the sport of biathlon in Canada, is seeking applicants to fill a part time position at the national office in Ottawa. The successful candidate will assist the Executive Director with a number of projects including* but not limited to:
– General administrative functions
– Filling materials and supplies orders
– Web postings and website review
– Assist with production of promotional materials
– Meeting planning and preparation
– Membership registration and club database processes
– Entry level bookkeeping duties as assigned
– Other tasks as assigned
*Please refer to the complete job description for further details
The successful candidate will have the following attributes:
– Post secondary education in Sport Administration, Physical and Health Education, Business or a combination of related education and experience
– The ability to work with a high degree of independence in a fast-paced environment and respond quickly and efficiently to inquiries
– Excellent organization skills and attention to detail
– Good communication skills including the ability to produce polished communication in written and oral form in English (essential) and French (highly desirable)
– Ability to use Microsoft Office software and to learn other systems quickly
– Ability to take direction on assigned projects
– Ability to work as a team player in a volunteer-based organization
– Bilingualism is considered a strong asset
– Knowledge of the sport of biathlon or cross country skiing is considered an asset
– Flexibility to work varying days and hours depending on the workload at the various times of the year
Position: Administrative Assistant
Job Description:
Position: Administrative Assistant (part time contract) Location: Ottawa, Ontario (Biathlon Canada Head Office) Hours: 16-24 hours per week depending on the season (week-day time between 8:30am and 5pm- flexibility required by applicant and flexibility given by employer) Contract Dates: 15 months (January 7, 2013 – March 31, 2014) + training days Rate of Pay: $15-$18/hour (to be determined based on qualifications and experience) Benefits: none
Application Deadline: 16 November, 2012
Starting Date: 2-3 training days between Dec 10-21, 2012
with a formal start date of January 7, 2013.
Applications with a résumé and 3 references will be accepted by email at the address below until Friday, November 16, 2012.
November 06, 2012 (Salt Lake City, UT) – The documentary film Ready To Fly has been awarded “Best Feature-Length Mountain Film” at the prestigious Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival.
Ready To Fly, written and directed by William A. Kerig of Salt Lake City, Utah, follows 2009 World Ski Jumping Champion Lindsey Van and her ski jumping peers as they fight for inclusion in the Olympic Winter Games.
“This is the greatest honor of my filmmaking career and I’m in debt to the entire Ready To Fly team for helping make it happen,” said Kerig, who was in Banff, Alberta on Nov. 4 to receive the award. “We’re thrilled to be recognized among this excellent line-up of mountain films. We hope Lindsey’s story continues to resonate and inspire people around the world to never give up on their dreams.”
Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival started 37 years ago and showcases the world’s best films, books, and photographs on mountain subjects – climbing, culture, environment, wildlife, exploration and adventure, and sport. The 79 films chosen as finalists this year were selected from 370 films entered in competition from 34 countries.
“This was probably the hardest category to judge, but in the end, one film overwhelmed us with its superb storytelling, inspiring characters and – most importantly – had the judges cheering at the finish,” said Banff jury member, Kathryn Bonnici. “The filmmakers spent years following this story, the pacing was spot on, and the images simply beautiful.”
On Oct. 12, Ready To Fly also won “Best Documentary” at the popular Carmel Art & Film Festival. Ready To Fly was released in Salt Lake City in February and test-marketed as part of the 10th anniversary of 2002 Salt Lake Winter Games. It had its World Premiere at the MountainFilm Festival in Telluride, CO in May and has appeared in film festivals this fall throughout the U.S. including the Adventure Film Festival & Tour in Boulder, New Hampshire Film Festival, Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival, and Twin Cities Film Festival.
Ready To Fly will screen in two more film festivals this year:
X-Dance Action Sports Film Festival
1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8
Salt Lake City, UT
The Depot, 400 W. South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Tickets HERE.
Whistler Film Festival
12 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 2
Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
More info HERE.
October 19, 2012 – Here is your CAAWS Newsletter for the month of October. “CAAWS” stands for “Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity”. CAAWS provides leadership and education, and builds capacity to foster equitable support, diverse opportunities and positive experiences for girls and women in sport and physical activity.
1. CAAWS PROGRAMS AT A GLANCE
CAAWS would like to thank you! – As part of its strategic planning process, CAAWS invited key stakeholders to complete an online survey to ultimately ensure that our programs and services meet the needs of girls and women in sport and physical activity. CAAWS would like to thank all those who responded to the survey. The findings will be analyzed and presented to the CAAWS Board of Directors at their upcoming Board Meeting taking in place in Ottawa next month.
Moving, Mentoring, Motivating Mothers – With funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, CAAWS will be offering a total of 15 incentive grants to groups and/or organizations interested in increasing physical activity and sport participation among Ontario mothers and their families. Through this opportunity, CAAWS is excited to announce the following recipients:
Project Amik Residents Committee (Toronto); West Nipissing Community Health Centre (Sturgeon Falls); Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte (Tyendinaga Territory); Community Living Brant – Ontario Early Years Centre: Brant (Brantford); Ontario Early Years Centre: Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office (Toronto); Flemindgon Neighbourhood Services (Toronto); Odawa Native Friendship Centre (Ottawa); Township of Tyendinaga (Shannonville); Oil Heritage District Community Centre (Petrolia); Centre des services communautaires Vanier (Ottawa); Grandir Ensemble (Ottawa); Sioux Lookout Mothers in Motion (Sioux Lookout); Terrace Bay & Schreiber Mothers in Motion Committee (Terrace Bay); and, Moms in Motion (Toronto).
For more information on CAAWS’ Mothers in Motion project, visit the website HERE.
Keeping Girls in Motion – CAAWS Executive Director, Karin Lofstrom, had an opportunity to sit down with Saskatchewan in motion – re:activity host Lisa Peters and talk about getting and keeping girls active. To see what Karin had to say, click here. re:activity is a multi-media memo to parents regarding physical activity. And the message? Your kids aren’t as active as you think they are. But the good news is that it doesn’t take a super hero to make physical activity the easy choice. To see more stories, advice and practical tools to re:activate your family, click HERE.
2. CAAWS IS LOOKING FOR THE MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN IN SPORT AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN 2012
CAAWS wants your help to identify powerful and influential women in sport and physical activity. Next month, CAAWS will be seeking your input for its Most Influential Women in Sport and Physical Activity List for 2012.
Who is an influential woman? She is a powerful woman who is influencing sport or physical activity in 2012. She may be a podium athlete who has achieved national and/or international recognition, or has had to overcome challenges but lead by example. Perhaps she is a volunteer or a Mission Staff team member who’s donated countless hours to coaching or organizing. She may be making a significant impact in physical activity. Or she is an executive who has led an organization or team with a clear defined vision. It may even be someone in the print or broadcast media who influences coverage of girls and women at the Games.
Women previously named to the list may be nominated again. A panel established by CAAWS will review all nominations. They will develop the final list of the Most Influential Women in Sport and Physical Activity for 2012. See our past lists for info. CAAWS will be accepting nominations starting November 2012 – stay tuned for more details!
3. NEW CAAWS PROJECT – MAKING HEALTHY CONNECTIONS IN RACIALIZED COMMUNITIES: GIRLS AND YOUNG WOMEN’S EXPERIENCES WITH SPORT, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND HEALTHY LIVING
The Making Healthy Connections in Racialized Communities project is designed to enhance capacity at the community, regional and provincial levels to increase healthy living opportunities for girls and young women from ethnic communities. The project was funded through the Healthy Communities Fund of the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, and builds on On the Move, CAAWS’ national initiative to increase opportunities for inactive girls and young women ages (9-18) to participate in sport and physical activity.
Earlier this year, CAAWS hosted focus groups with ethnic girls and young women, and practitioners involved with sport and physical activity programs and services for this target group. The focus groups provided the foundation for a new report that discusses the sport and physical activity needs, interests and experiences of girls and young women from ethnic communities, shares successes and challenges from an organizational perspective, and provides recommendations to enhance program and service delivery. Available November 2012; email caaws@caaws.ca to request a copy.
In addition to the Report, the project also involves the training of 10 women as workshop facilitators, and the delivery of 20 workshops across the province. Workshops are half-day, interactive, issue-based sessions that provide an overview of the project, share focus group findings, discuss the complexities of race and multiculturalism in an increasingly diverse society as they apply to sport, physical activity and healthy living, and provide tips and recommendations to increase the participation of girls and young women from ethnic communities.
Applications to become a workshop facilitator and/or to host a workshop are now available on the CAAWS website – the deadline is November 30, 2012.
For more information about the project, click HERE.
To download the facilitator application form HERE (download PDF).
To download the workshop host application form HERE (download PDF).
4. ACTIVELY ENGAGING WOMEN AND GIRLS – CALL FOR SUCCESS STORIES
To support work to enhance the Canadian Sport and Physical Activity system and build on the Canadian Sport for Life movement, CAAWS is seeking success stories from national, provincial/territorial and community organizations that have increased opportunities for women and girls to participant and/or lead. These could include targeted Learn to Play programs, codes of conduct to make your team more inclusive, female-only coach certification opportunities, mentorship initiatives, and more. Send a description of your success story to Sydney Millar, CAAWS’ National Program Director, via snmillar@caaws.ca.
To download CAAWS’ CS4L resource, Actively Engaging Women and Girls: Addressing the Psycho-Social Factors and targeted supplements for NSOs, P/TSOs, Coaches, Program Leaders, Educators and Parents, click HERE.
5. ACTIVE LIVING AFTER SCHOOL RESOURCES NOW AVAILABLE!
PHE Canada has just launched its Active Living After School (ALAS) initiative as part of the Canadian Active After School Partnership (CAASP) funded by Public Health Agency of Canada. Developed to assist after school program administrators in delivering high quality programs that involve increased access and opportunity to engage in physical activity and healthy living, the ALAS initiative includes a How-to-Guide and an equipment Activity Kit to help administrators in support of their programs. PHE Canada has partnered with Canadian Tire Jumpstart to provide qualified after school programs with the ALAS resources at no cost. For more information on this initiative, click HERE.
Be sure to also check out CAAWS’ Active After School Programs for Girls and Young Women Resources which were developed to ensure after school programs are positive and inclusive environments for girls and young women: On the Move Top 10 Success Factors, Success Stories from Five Friendship Centres, and Policy and Recommendations. These resources were released by CAAWS as part of their involvement in CAASP. To view and/or download these resources, click HERE.
6. IAPESGW’s 17TH WORLD CONGRESS 2013
The International Association of Physical Education and Sport for Girls and Women (IAPESGW) 17th World Congress 2013 will be held April 10-13, 2013 in Havana (Cuba). The conference will bring together interested scholars and practitioners from across the globe, who are working to improve the position of girls and women in the fields of physical education, sport, dance and physical activity. Sessions will include keynotes, symposia, workshops, oral and poster presentations aimed at facilitating the sharing of research and practice through exchange of knowledge, networking, discussing and creating new possibilities for the benefit of girls and women globally.
Deadline to submit an abstract is December 1, 2012. For more information, visit the conference website HERE.
7. NEW WEBSITE ON LGBT ISSUES IN SPORT
Sport, as an institution, has historically been behind the times when it comes to issues related to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. But a growing push for social justice in sport has begun to transform cultural attitudes. A new website, LBGT Issues in Sport: Theory to Practice, was recently launched by Drexel University’s Goodwin College.
The website will provide public access to research focusing on LGBT issues in sport, with the goal of turning theory into practice in order to make sport more inclusive for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals. The site will also serve as a resource for sharing research that has been vetted through peer-reviewed processes to facilitate a greater awareness of work being done in this field, and connect researchers and activities in order to impact public policy and education.
8. UPCOMING EVENTS
While CAAWS is not hosting any workshops and/or presentations in the coming weeks, the following events may be of interest:
The 4th Conference on Recent Advances in the Prevention and Management of Childhood and Adolescent Obesity – Taking place Oct. 24-26 in Halifax NS, this conference brings together an interdisciplinary group of professionals and policy makers working in the field of childhood and adolescent obesity. Specifically, the conference will showcase examples of the best and promising practice across Canada, and across multiple settings. >From provincial level policies to school and community level interventions, and through practice-based management programs targeting multiple behaviours that are associated with obesity, the conference seeks to promote a solution-oriented approach to obesity prevention and management. For more information and program updates, click HERE.
Petro-Canada Sport Leadership Sportif – From November 8th to 10th, Canada’s sport elite will gather in Montreal, Quebec. The country’s top coaches and sport scientists will join senior leaders from our national sport organizations to analyze, discuss, network, and learn from each other in powerful sharing sessions. You will be educated, motivated and inspired. For more information or to register, click HERE.
9. CELEBRATIONS
Congratulations to Chantal Petitclerc on being named Canada’s chef de mission for the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Active Healthy Kids Canada names Jennifer Cowie Bonne as Chief Executive Officer. Synchro Canada names Meng Chen as head coach to lead the senior national team in this new era leading to the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games.
Marion Lay, CAAWS Founding Mother and former Chair, is being inducted into the Canadian Sport Hall of Fame in Calgary.
Congratulations to the following four women on being named Ontario Apprentice Coaches for the 2013 Canada Summer Games Coaching Apprentice Program: Jenny Trew (Cycling) and Helen Orton (Canoe Kayak) have been selected for the Women Apprentice program; Ohsweken Apprentice Coaches, Tiffany Van Every (Canoe Kayak) and Kathryn Hill (Softball) have been identified for the Aboriginal Apprentice program.
In the Loop celebrates women’s accomplishments in the sport and physical activity community. Send career notices, changes, awards and recognitions to CAAWS c/o sparker@caaws.ca to be included in the next issue.
Get Social!
Did you know you can connect with CAAWS to find out the latest news? Become a fan of CAAWS on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter for another way to stay “In the Loop.”
October 12, 2012 (Ottawa, ON) – In partnership with the Government of Canada, the Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) is pleased to announce that it will be recognizing 55 Canadians for their contributions to the Paralympic Movement through the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.
The call for nominations closes October 15, 2012.
February 6, 2012 marked the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the Throne. To commemorate this historic occasion Canada created the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal to be awarded to 60,000 nominees from across Canada for significant contributions and achievements by Canadians. Included in this number will be 55 Canadians put forward by the CPC who have made a significant difference in the advancement of the Paralympic Movement in Canada.
These 55 individuals will also join the 145 athletes who represented Canada at the London 2012 Paralympic Games as medal recipients. They will be selected by the CPC’s External Representation Committee who will review all nominations and provide a list of 55 nominees to the CPC Board of Directors for approval. This list of names will then forwarded to the Office of the Governor General for final endorsement.
Nominees must fall into one of three categories: Athlete, Coach and Builder. Each category will be evaluated on the following criteria:
1. Athlete
Outstanding athletic performance (medals at Paralympic Games, participation in multiple Games, world or national records, etc.).
Contribution to the Paralympic Movement through activities undertaken outside of sporting or competition commitments (community service, public speaking, sport promotion, etc.).
Sustained contributions to the Paralympic Movement (a legacy exists as an athlete, a mentor, a coach, an administrator, etc.).
2. Coach
Outstanding coaching performances that have led to medals at Paralympic Games and World Championships. Involvement in multiple Paralympic Games and overall total body of work including Canada Games and Regional/Provincial Championships.
Contribution to Paralympic Movement through sport development (community or elite), coach development, mentoring, and technical innovation.
Sustained contributor to the Paralympic Movement.
3. Builder / Administrator
Outstanding lifetime contribution to the growth and development of the Paralympic Movement nationally and/or internationally.
Provided ground-breaking leadership or innovative practices/programs.
Made a significant impact to the development of Paralympic sport. This may include contributions made nationally or internationally to specific sports within a specific disability group, or to athletes with a disability as a whole.
In addition to the criteria above, to be eligible for a Jubilee Medal the nominee must:
Be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada, but need not necessarily reside in Canada;
Have been alive on February 6th, 2012, the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty’s accession to the Throne. The medal can be awarded posthumously, as long as the recipient was alive on that date.
The Nomination Form for the Diamond Jubilee Medal can be found on the CPC website and must be completed in full, including the full name, address, phone number and email address of the nominator AND the nominee along with a one-page outline of the nominee’s activities and achievements.
Please send the completed form and attachments by October 15, 2012 to:
Canadian Paralympic Committee
Attention: Diamond Jubilee Medal Selection Committee
225 Metcalfe Street
Ottawa, ON K0C 1C0
Email: kpoapst@paralympic.ca
Further criteria and information on the Diamond Jubilee Medal can be found at www.gg.ca
About the Canadian Paralympic Committee
The Canadian Paralympic Committee is a non-profit, private organization with 46 member sports organizations dedicated to strengthening the Paralympic movement. The Canadian Paralympic Committee’s vision is to be the world’s leading Paralympic nation. Its mission is to lead the development of a sustainable Paralympic sport system in Canada to enable athletes to reach the podium at the Paralympic Games. By supporting Canadian Paralympic athletes and promoting their success, the Canadian Paralympic Committee inspires all Canadians with a disability to get involved in sport through programs delivered by its member organizations.
October 09, 2012 – Happy Canadian Thanksgiving everyone! Ok, now the blog post can begin. The Fast and Female event in Park City was officially AWESOME. As per my usual, I got to lead the dancing/endurance station, where we keep moving the entire time and each girl gets to add a dance move of her own to the group dance. The dance gets longer and longer and by the last group of the day I’m always working so hard to try and remember which move comes next! But it’s so much fun. Anne Hart was my dance station partner and we had a blast although by the end we both had jelly legs and were wiped out.
For me the coolest thing is seeing each girls face light up as the entire group does the dance move SHE got to add. It’s fun to make each girl be the star for 10 seconds!
And now… the National Nordic Foundation’s Drive for 25.
I realize that there are a ton of fundraisers going on this fall. And my personal fundraiser, the Chilkoot Cafe dinner in Stillwater, is going on this fall as well, on November 10th. But, I’m putting this up because the National Nordic Foundation directly helps me as well as many other junior, senior and U23 athletes looking to take the next step in international racing. NNF lowers trip costs for World Juniors/U23′s, and help pay for World Cup expenses. NNF also helped the US Women’s team travel to Sweden to train with some of the best in the world and improve.
So!
If you cannot come to Stillwater, MN on November 10th but are a friend of mine and/or Nordic Skiing and want to help out, this fundraiser is the best way to do it. I’ve linked my fundraising page below, and my goal is to get 20 people to donate $25. All the fundraiser information is on the link – even if you do not want to donate, please check out the NNF and their mission – the stories, pictures and race blogs are well worth looking at. Thanks for your time!
April 26, 2012 (New York, NY) – Vancouver Olympic Gold, Silver and Bronze Medalists will be at the Loeb Boathouse in Central Park on Wednesday, May 9th, for an evening of entertainment hosted by MSNBC’s Dylan Ratigan to benefit the Next Generation of NYSEF athletes, including U.S. Olympians and Sochi 2014 hopefuls.
The gala fundraiser, hosted by the New York Ski Educational Foundation (NYSEF), will offer attendees the rare opportunity to meet Olympic medalists and National Team members including Nordic Combined Gold and Silver Medalist Billy Demong, Super G Bronze Medalist Andrew Weibrecht and three-time World Cup winner Manuel Osborne-Paradis. U.S. Ski Jumpers Nick Alexander and Jay Rand, and top U.S. Biathletes Tim Burke, Lowell Bailey and Annelies Cook will also be in attendance.
The event begins at 6:30 p.m. and will feature cocktails, a buffet, and a live auction with items that range from a week vacation in a private villa on Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, to a day of skiing with Olympic Bronze Medalist Andrew Weibrecht. General admission tickets for the event are $250. Net proceeds from ticket sales and the auction will be donated to the Endowment Fund and NYSEF scholarship and general funds.
In partnership with NYSEF, the Next Generation gala event is sponsored by CBRE, the Black Rock Foundation, Northwood School, the Paine Family, the Hospital for Special Surgery and in part by Whiteface Mountain, the Mirror Lake Inn, gloProfessional, and Harrow Sports, Eastern Collective, the Lake Placid Crown Plaza, Grenier Des Alps, and the Meltzer Group.
April 20, 2012 – The 2011 Canada Winter Games has been named as the 2012 Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance (CSTA) President’s Award winner for a National Multi-Sport Games.
The President’s Award recognizes the outstanding achievements or contributions by individuals, organizations, single or multi-sport events that have helped profile and build sport tourism in Canada, provide exceptional sporting opportunities, generate significant revenue, or demonstrate the value of volunteerism.
“The success of the 2011 Winter Canada Games helped generate in excess of 130-million-dollars in economic activity in Nova Scotia,” says Canada Games Council Chairman Tom Quinn. “The infrastructure and the financial surplus had a tremendous impact on the community and will create lasting legacies for generations to come.”
The 2011 Canada Winter Games was the largest multi-sport event ever held in Nova Scotia and Halifax’s first Canada Winter Games. From February 11 to 27, 2011, more than 2,700 athletes competed in more than 20 sports, attracting thousands of visitors, VIPs, officials and media. Over the course of 17 exciting days, over 16,000 Canada Games conversations took place on twitter, more than 11,500 people visited Halifax for the Games, and 400,000 people streamed Games action live via the web.
“At all levels, the 2011 Canada Winter Games were a success,” says 2011 Canada Games CEO Chris Morrissey. “More than 1,100 jobs were created supporting $40 million in wages and salaries, the Canada Games Oval has recently become a permanent sports facility on the Halifax Common, an estimated 50,000 people attended free concerts in Celebration Square at Grand Parade, and more than 2,700 athletes had the opportunity to compete for gold.”
The Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance PRESTIGE Awards were established to celebrate the people, places and events that make the Canadian sport tourism industry so dynamic and important to the economic fabric of our communities. The PRESTIGE Awards were presented yesterday at a gala luncheon event which took place in conjunction with CSTA’s annual conference, Sport Events Congress.
The Canada Games Council congratulates all 2012 winners and nominees.
April 18, 2012 – The Canada Games Council is pleased to announce the launch of the 2013 and 2015 Canada Games Aboriginal Apprentice Coach Program and Women in Coaching Program.
The Aboriginal Apprentice Coach Program (AACP) is a partnership between the Aboriginal Sport Circle (ASC), the Provincial/Territorial Aboriginal Sport Bodies (PTASB), the Provincial/Territorial Coaching Representatives (PTCR), the Canada Games Council (CGC) and the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC). The program provides the opportunity for each Province and Territory to send two coaches of aboriginal ancestry to the Canada Games in apprenticeship roles.
“The Aboriginal Apprentice Coach Program is a great opportunity for Aboriginal coaches in Canada who may not otherwise get a chance to participate in a high level games competition such as the Canada Games,” says Anthony Sauvé, Manager of Aboriginal Coach Development with the CAC. “The coaches who have flowed through this program have had the opportunity to be mentored under top level coaches in their respective sport discipline.”
The WiC program is a partnership between the PTCR, the CGC and the CAC. This program provides the opportunity for each Province and Territory to send two female coaches to the Canada Games in apprenticeship roles.
“The Women in Coaching Canada Games apprenticeship program is a tremendous sport partnership which enables aspiring women high performance coaches to get the necessary experience and training to advance their coaching education and skills,” says Sheilagh Croxon, WiC Program Consultant with the CAC. “To be involved in all aspects of training, receive support from an identified mentor coach, and to attend the Canada Games are all extremely valuable opportunities.”
The purpose of the Canada Games apprentice coach programs is to provide aboriginal and women coaches with a practical and integrated major national multi-sport games experience.
Selected coaches have direct involvement in preparation and competition and receive support from an identified mentor coach throughout the duration of the program.
Apprentice Programs – 2
“The introduction of the first Canada Games Apprentice Coach Program in 2005 has paved the way to increased participation of women and aboriginal coaches in the largest multi-sport event in Canada,” says Sue Hylland, President and CEO of the Canada Games Council. “We are proud to see so many coaches who have participated in the programs further their development and go on to coach at national and international competitions.”
The Canada Games have featured apprenticeship coach programs in every Games since the 2005 Canada Summer Games in Regina, Saskatchewan. The 2005 through 2011 Canada Games have featured the WiC program, while the AACP was introduced originally as a pilot project for the 2009 and 2011 Canada Games.
Peggy Falkenham-Boutilier values the role that the WiC Program has played in her development as a coach. “The program helped to model a way forward by helping define values, inspiring a vision, identifying opportunities, and fostering collaboration,” says Peggy, a Biathlon coach from Nova Scotia who participated in the 2011 WiC Program. “It cultured opportunities with other women in sport and those relationships are tremendously valuable. An opportunity like this kept me focused.”
Hailing from Saskatchewan, Jonathan Smith was an Apprentice Coach at the 2009 Canada Games in PEI in wrestling. “Overall it’s challenging to get coaching positions, but I’m in a much better position now,” Jonathan says. One of the pillars of the AACP states that ongoing professional development will play a crucial role in the overall success of the program.
Jonathan has embraced this component and utilized the experience he gained at the Games to go on to coach the Carlton High School Wrestling team in Prince Albert as well as the University of Regina Wrestling team.
Coaches interested in either the WiC Program or AACP at the 2013 and/or 2015 Canada Games should consult the program guidelines posted on the CGC website HERE.
April 17, 2012 – Spring has arrived! A crazy but no less exciting winter has now been put to rest. This summer in New England holds the potential to be one of the best yet for Nordic skiers interested in improving their skills and mixing it up with their peers. You can check the event calendar HERE for all the upcoming camps, clinics and happenings.
Speaking of camps and training, A topic of popular discussion at the National Governing Body (NGB) level right now is that of concussion education. While it is not something we like to think about I want to pass along this info to you as a resource, supplied to us as a benefit of our CODP Progam.
aHead of the Game
The NCYS endorses the “aHead of the Game” brain injury and concussion education and awareness program. Click HERE and then scroll down to the bottom of the page under Call to Action. That will take you to a page where you can access free educational materials. Also check out the CDC’s Head Up program; follow the same instructions as above from HERE. These are both good resources.
The aHead of the Game initiative is new and current. “aHead of the Game® is an initiative to reduce the risks of concussions and other head injuries in amateur youth sports. Through greater awareness and education, we want to help coaches, parents and young athletes learn signs and symptoms of concussions, seek proper treatment and follow appropriate return to play protocols to avoid the significant dangers of multiple concussions.”
While Nordic skiers may be at less risk than other sports, it is our responsibility as coaches to become familiar with the signs of trauma and know how to respond. Case in point: at a summer camp I attended a few years back we took part in a warm up game of soccer. One of the girls who was an accomplished soccer player, headed the ball and instantly passed out. It scared the you know what out of us! She came to immediately and seemed fine, but thankfully, the coaches knew what to look for in her response testing, to know what was required as the next step in ensuring her safety.
March 30, 2012 (Ottawa, ON) – Canada’s sporting heroes remain hungry to deliver a return on the Government of Canada’s continued investment in high-performance sport following Thursday’s budget announcement that ensured the Harper Government’s ongoing commitment to driving podium performances.
“The Government of Canada continues to lead the way in creating a new culture for winning, which Canada’s athletes and coaches fully support,” said Anne Merklinger, chief executive officer, Own the Podium. “This commitment reinforces the Canadian Government’s leadership in delivering the resources athletes need to climb onto the podium at Olympic, Paralympic and major international competitions.”
Own the Podium, which has been a driving force behind Canada’s continued evolution into a world-leading sport nation, is funded nearly exclusively by the Government of Canada. Originally launched in 2005 as a national initiative, Own the Podium is designed to provide medal-potential athletes with additional resources and high-performance programming to help them achieve podium success.
Canada’s 50 per cent increase in the Summer Olympic medal count from Athens to Beijing is in large part attributable to the Government of Canada’s leadership, according to one of Canada’s most decorated Olympians – two-time Olympic medallist in triathlon, Simon Whitfield.
“We simply could not have achieved what we did without the tremendous financial support from the Government of Canada’s investment in Own the Podium,” said Whitfield, who electrified the nation with his silver-medal triathlon triumph in Beijing. “From camp funding and staff support, to the heat chamber, and our satellite setup at the actual Games that included our own wonder chef Cosmo, OTP’s funding ensures we have the optimal conditions to excel.”
After five years of record investment, Own the Podium became a household name following the nation’s overwhelming success at the 2010 Games where Canadian athletes achieved their goals of finishing number one overall with an historic 14 Olympic gold medals, and in the top-three of the overall Paralympic medal count with 10 gold, including three by cross-country skier Brian McKeever.
“Before our program had access to Government funding through OTP, we were amateurs guessing our way through the results while competing in high performance sport,” said McKeever – a 10-time Paralympic medallist, who became the first winter-sport athlete to qualify for both the Olympics and Paralympics in 2010. “OTP is responsible for growing the program by developing young athletes, and also increasing the level of our team to where we now have every athlete hitting the start line with a focus on winning.”
Building on the success of 2010, Own the Podium’s $36 million annual investment in summer athletes has positioned Whitfield and his fellow Canadian Summer Olympians to accomplish the nation’s ambitious goal of finishing in the top 12 when the world meets in London for the 2012 Olympic Summer Games. Canada also has a goal of finishing in the top-eight in gold medal count at the 2012 Paralympics. Meanwhile, the $20 million of annual funding for winter sport programs has squarely placed Canada as the nation to beat at the 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Sochi, Russia; Canadian performances on the snow and ice this winter have elevated the nation’s ranking to number one with 35 medals – including 17 gold – in World Championship competition so far this season. Canada’s Paralympic athletes are also focused on finishing in the top-three in the gold-medal count at the 2014 Games.
“The Government of Canada has played a critical role towards ensuring Canadian athletes are amongst the world’s best through their support of the Own the Podium program,” said Merklinger. “Through Government support, Canada’s summer- and winter-sport athletes have come a long way in their pursuit of excellence. The support announced today sends a strong message that the Government of Canada believes in our athletes and coaches, and their performances on the world stage matter to Canadians. We are encouraged Mr. Harper has taken a lead in ensuring this success will continue well into the future, which in turn inspires a healthier and more active Canada.”
March 21, 2012 (Ottawa, ON) – Own the Podium in Ottawa is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the contract position of Performance Advisor of Sport Science and Medicine. The application deadline is April 4, 2012. Read on for more details.
Job Description:
Position: HPA, Sport Science and Medicine (Summer Sports)
Reports to: Director, Sport Science, Medicine and Innovation
Location: Ottawa, ON
Application Deadline: 4 April 2012
Term: 4 year contract, start date negotiable
About Own the Podium
Own the Podium (OTP) is an innovative and collaborative initiative without precedent in Canadian sport. It was created to bring together the key parties involved in leading and funding excellence in Canadian sport, with specific emphasis on achieving excellence at Summer and Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Scope of Position:
The position’s central mandate is to provide expertise, assistance and leadership to targeted Olympic and Paralympic summer sports in the ongoing implementation and assessment of an integrated sport science and medicine program. The individual will also assist in establishing service contracts between Canadian Sport Centres (CSC’s) and OTP, and National Sport Organizations (NSO’s) and CSC’s. In addition, the individual will assist with managing summer applied sport research projects. The position will report to the Director of Sport Science, Medicine and Innovation for Own the Podium, and will work collaboratively with the Director of Summer Sport, OTP High Performance Advisors , CSC’s, and technology and research specialists.
The ideal candidate will have extensive applied experience and success in sport science and sport medicine programming along with significant experience in leadership positions in Canadian or international sport systems. The successful candidate will have worked successfully and extensively within the Olympic and/or Paralympic sport environment.
Core Competencies:
– Demonstrates a sense of direction and purpose aligned with the vision, guiding principles and goals of OTP;
– Targets gold level performance striving to be ‘leading edge’ in own area of expertise seeking opportunities to improve systems and products;
– Continually makes efforts to understand client needs in an inclusive, outreaching, adaptable manner
– Behaves in an honest, respectful, trustworthy, fair manner maintaining consistency in words and actions honoring commitments;
– Self-monitors work to ensure quality and accuracy raising the standards for quality;
– Dynamic, collaborative and creative leader, with an ability to lead program design and implementation while building effective partnerships with educational institutions and sport organizations;
– Detail-oriented, dependable, self-confident, independent and budget minded;
– Understanding, recognition and respect for the roles and responsibilities of the NSO’s and CSC’s in the delivery of their high performance programs and service.
Roles and Responsibilities
1. Work in collaboration with OTP High Performance Advisors (HPA’s) to ensure that the targeted summer Olympic and Paralympic sports have an optimal integrated Sport Science/Sport Medicine (SS/SM) plan
2. Work in collaboration with Canadian Sport Centres to assist targeted NSO’s to receive quality services based on solid IST plans, and to establish service agreements between NSO’s and either OTP or CSCs.
3. Provide expertise and mentoring to targeted sports in the area of sport science, sports medicine, innovation, and the planning and periodization of training.
4. In collaboration with the OTP Director of SS/SM/I, contribute to the development of a national plan to enhance SS/SM and technology programming and services for targeted sports, which aligns with CSC initiatives.
5. Work with the OTP Director of SS/SM/I to promote the development, implementation and evaluation of a strong network of SS/SM professionals both within the CSC network and external to CSC’s.
6. Participate as a member in the National Sport Science Advisory Committee.
Qualifications
– University graduate degree in a sport science field with preference for a doctoral degree education.
– Over ten years experience with a proven record of success as a senior leader in the Canadian sport system and/or other successful international sport systems.
– Previous experience working at a multi-sport organization is an asset.
– Significant successful experience in the design and implementation of sport science/medicine services to high performance athletes in preparation for performance success at Olympic and Paralympic Games.
– Computer skills and knowledge of the MS Office Suite is required.
– Bilingualism is a preferred asset.
Compensation
The compensation package will be based on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience.
Application Process
Apply in confidence by sending your cover letter resume by Wednesday, 4 April to careers@ownthepodium.org or by mail to:
Own the Podium
Re: HPA, Sport Science and Medicine (Summer Sports)
Suite 1207, 150 Isabella Street
Ottawa, ON K1S 1V7
We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
March 08, 2012 (Ottawa, ON) – In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity (CAAWS) announces the publication of Actively Engaging Women and Girls: Addressing the Psycho-Social Factors, a new resource designed to increase opportunities for women and girls as both participants and leaders in the Canadian sport and physical activity system. The publication is a supplement to the Canadian Sport for Life (CS4L) foundation document, and complements other Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) resources. A valuable resource for everyone involved in sport and physical activity, it will support and guide those working with women and girls so they engage in, and maintain, healthy and active lifestyles.
“Women and girls are still less active than men, are less visible in leadership roles, and tend to drop out of sport and physical activity earlier. Lower rates of participation have serious implications for the health of women and girls, and a lack of female leaders decreases the quality of the sport and physical activity system”, said CAAWS Executive Director Karin Lofstrom (Ottawa, Ontario). “The purpose of this resource is to increase awareness about the experiences of women and girls, and provide recommendations to address the psycho-social factors that influence female athlete development, leadership and life-long participation in sport and physical activity. International Women’s Day is the perfect time to reignite the dialogue and provide solutions, and CAAWS is proud to be offering this resource to all Canadians.”
Women and girls, who account for more than 50 percent of the population of Canada, continue to be underrepresented in the sport and physical activity system. Awareness about biomechanical and physiological considerations unique to women and girls has increased, providing a foundation to improve training methods and competition programs for athletes. However, large gaps persist in knowledge and practice relating to the psycho-social factors that influence women and girls as participants, athletes, coaches, officials, leaders or administrators.
Information in Actively Engaging Women and Girls: Addressing the Psycho-Social Factors will support national, provincial/territorial and community sport and physical activity organizations in enhancing their CS4L/LTAD implementation strategies. It will guide sport and physical activity leaders, coaches, educators and health promoters in developing and implementing quality programs and providing equitable support for women and girls as a priority. Parents and family members will find this resource helpful when making decisions about how to encourage and support the full and active participation of their daughters and female family members.
An advisory team of female leaders, representing different sport and physical activity sectors, contributed to the creation of the resource. Committee members were: Sylvie Béliveau (Canadian Soccer Association, LTPD Manager); Vicki Harber (PhD, Faculty of Physical Education & Recreation, University of Alberta); Louise Humbert, (PhD, Associate Dean, College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan); Penny Werthner (PhD, Director and Associate Dean, School of Human Kinetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa); Karin Lofstrom (Executive Director, Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity, CAAWS); Sydney Millar (National Program Director, Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity); Lori Johnstone (Project Manager).
CS4L (www.canadiansportforlife.ca) is a movement to improve the quality of sport and physical activity in Canada. CS4L links the sport, physical activity, recreation, education and health systems, and aligns community, provincial/territorial and national programming. LTAD is a seven-stage training, competition, and recovery pathway that guides an individual’s experience in sport and physical activity from infancy through all phases of adulthood. CS4L, with LTAD, represents a paradigm shift in the delivery of sport and physical activity in Canada. CS4L and LTAD are intentionally organic movements — as the concepts evolve, so do the resources that describe and support them.
February 28, 2012 – The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) would like to remind all those interested in helping shape the future of drug-free sport that the survey for our anti-doping rules consultation closes on February 29. Click HERE to view the survey.
January 26, 2012 (Ottawa) – The Canadian Paralympic Committee invites Canadian sports organizations to apply for the 2012-13 granting round of the Para-Equipment Fund, presented by Petro-Canada, a Suncor Energy business, and supported by the Government of Canada’s Sport Support Program.
The Para-Equipment Fund delivers grants of up to $5,000 to national sport organizations and provincial and local-level clubs to purchase adapted equipment – for sports such as wheelchair basketball, sledge hockey or sit-skiing, for example – to enable people with a disability to participate in sport.
Grants are awarded to cover 50 per cent of the total cost of the equipment. The applicant is responsible for covering the other 50 per cent of the equipment costs.
“We’re extremely proud to support this grassroots initiative and help sport organizations cover the cost of adapted sports equipment. This will enable more Canadians with a disability to have the opportunity to participate in sport,” said Steven Keith of Petro-Canada, a long-time partner of the Canadian Paralympic Committee and presenting sponsor of the Para-Equipment Fund. “It’s very rewarding to know these funds are being used to purchase needed items of equipment that will be well-used by keen participants.”
Applications for the 2012-13 Para-Equipment Fund will be accepted starting today, January 25, 2012. The deadline to submit applications is February 29, 2012.
Please visit HERE for the application form and more information. An optional interactive webinar on the application process is scheduled for Monday Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. EST. To register, email lferris@paralympic.ca.
Henry Storgaard, CEO of the Canadian Paralympic Committee, underlined the importance of the Para-Equipment Fund within the Canadian sport system.
”The Canadian Paralympic Committee is very pleased to be able to offer funding for adapted sports equipment through the Para-Equipment Fund,” said Storgaard. “We’re grateful to both Petro-Canada and the Government of Canada for making this grassroots level support possible, enabling more Canadians with a disability to participate in sport. The Para-Equipment Fund is an empowering, essential complement to our high performance initiatives.”
About the Para-Equipment Fund (PEF)
The Para-Equipment Fund was launched in 2005 by the Canadian Paralympic Commitee with the help of the Government of Canada and Petro-Canada, a Suncor Energy business. Grants are awarded to cover 50 per cent of the total cost of the equipment up to a maximum of $5,000. The applicant is responsible for covering the other 50 per cent of the equipment costs. In 2011-2012, the Fund awarded a total of $116,670 in grants for both summer and winter sports, bringing the total equipment investment to $233,340.
About Suncor Energy, proud owner of Petro-Canada
Suncor Energy Inc. is Canada’s premier integrated energy company. Suncor’s operations include oil sands development and upgrading, conventional and offshore oil and gas production, petroleum refining, and product marketing under the Petro-Canada brand. While working to responsibly develop petroleum resources, Suncor is also developing a growing renewable energy portfolio. Suncor’s common shares (symbol: SU) are listed on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges. For more information about Suncor Energy Inc., please visit www.suncor.com.
About the Canadian Paralympic Committee
The Canadian Paralympic Committee is a non-profit, private organization with 46 member sports organizations dedicated to strengthening the Paralympic movement. The Canadian Paralympic Committee’s vision is to be the world’s leading Paralympic nation. Its mission is to lead the development of a sustainable Paralympic sport system in Canada to enable athletes to reach the podium at the Paralympic Games. By supporting Canadian Paralympic athletes and promoting their success, the Canadian Paralympic Committee inspires all Canadians with a disability to get involved in sport through programs delivered by its member organizations. For more information, visit HERE.
For more information, please contact:
Alison Korn
Manager, Media Relations
Canadian Paralympic Committee
Tel: 613-569-4333 ext. 243
Cell: 613-298-4927 akorn@paralympic.ca
Laura Ferris
Coordinator, Recruitment Program Support
Canadian Paralympic Committee
Tel: (613) 569-4333 x233 lferris@paralympic.ca
January 24, 2012 (Canmore, AB) – At the age of 12, Canmore’s Sara Renner attended the 1988 Olympics as a spectator. That moment changed her life and prompted her to aim for Olympic dreams of her own.
With a career that was highlighted by an Olympic silver medal claimed at the 2006 Games in Torino with Beckie Scott in the team event, retired cross-country ski star Renner now inspires others to reach for the skies. This Sunday, she did just that as 80 aspiring female champions between the ages 9 to 19 joined the Fast and Female XC Ski event for an afternoon of motivation.
“When I was your age, I was exactly like you,” told Renner to the captive group of skiers coming from all corners of Alberta and even British Columbia. “I loved cross-country skiing, and one day I qualified for the Alberta Winter Games. That was such a thrill and really the beginning of my desire to train and work hard.”
“With experience, I learned that what made a big difference for me to reach the next level of performance was to focus on that 10 percent of the race that hurts the most,” explained Renner as her Olympic medal circulated amongst the girls in the crowd. “I knew that if I gave it all in that segment of the race, then I would do my best. That’s how I began to judge all my races – asking myself how much I had pushed myself in that 10 percent of the race when you just want to give up,” added the 2005 bronze medalist in the individual sprint at the World Ski Championships.
Held in conjunction with the first-ever FIS (Federation International de Ski) World Snow Day, the Fast and Female XC Ski event featured team building activities, one hour of on-snow ski drills, healthy snacks, Zumba dancing and Renner’s inspirational presentation. In keeping with Fast and Female’s mission, all activities were aimed at motivate girls to stick to sports and the healthy lifestyle. It is believed that girls are six times more likely to drop out of sports than boys.
On this special occasion, Renner was joined by a dynamic group of tremendous female role-models including current and past national team athletes, World Cup Academy racers, and provincial team competitors such as Alysson Marshall, Emily Nishikawa, Janelle Greer, Annika Hicks, Kendra Hicks, Marlis Kromm, Rebecca Reid, Heidi Widmer, Kate Brennan, Natalie Hull, Brooke Gosling, and Karen Messenger. Many of these ladies were onsite to take part in the Haywood Western Championships and volunteered valuable time to join the Fast and Female event.
Founded by Olympic gold medalist in cross-country skiing and active World Cup racer, Chandra Crawford, Fast and Female strives to counter this phenomenon by hosting fun, non-competitive sporting events with inspiring female athletic role models all over North America. The organization is currently involved in sports such as alpine skiing, biathlon, ski cross, snowboard, cycling, and running. A key ingredient to Fast and Female’s success in impacting the lives of girls lies in the quality and wisdom of its ambassadors.
“When I qualified for my first World Cup, it wasn’t at all what I expected,” shared Renner. “You could have flipped the results page around and found my name all the way at the bottom. Over time, I was very lucky to have awesome teammates. We really demanded a lot of each other and that’s why we were able to turn things around and achieve such successes.”
In closing, Renner told the girls: “As an athlete, you’re always being judged for your performance, your body fat composition and so on. Ultimately, that doesn’t define who you are. What you have to know is that people around you will love you no matter what,” concluded the mother to two young girls.
This unique event was made possible thanks to the financial support of Fast and Female’s national financial and in-kind sponsors – including exclusive platinum sponsor Best Buy as well as Buff Multifunctional Headwear, CLARINS, Cold-FX, Cross-Country Canada, Lululemon Athletica, LUNA Bars and LIT Glitter. The Canmore Nordic Centre also provided free access to the venue and trails. We would also like to thank all volunteers who helped at the event. For a complete list of Fast and Female national program supporters and sponsors, please click HERE.
The next Fast and Female event will take place on February 4, 2012 at Blue Mountain Resort in Ontario with members of Canada’s national Ski Cross team. The off-snow activity will feature an afternoon of inspiration for girls involved in Alpine skiing and Ski Cross. The online registration page can be found HERE.
January 11, 2012 – January 1, 2012 marked the milestone of just three weeks to go until the largest winter event in the world. The inaugural FIS World Snow Day, set to be held on January 22, 2012, aims to bring children between four and fourteen – together with their families – to the slopes, trails and tracks, in a fun-filled day of events, activities and competitions on snow.
The inaugural World Snow Day will consist of 225 events in 39 countries.
The initiative falls under FIS’s ‘Bring Children to the Snow’ campaign, which was launched in 2007 and celebrates winter sports as a fun, healthy and social recreation activity for children of all fitness levels and capabilities. The World Snow Day 2012 will be the first event to be conducted on a global scale, joining the worldwide community in celebrating snow sports as part of a healthy lifestyle, and to foster global awareness of the importance of nurturing the natural environment.
With such as large number of events as part of World Snow Day, the variety is also extensive. Some examples include a winter wonderland in the heart of Tokyo; free ski and snowboard lessons across Poland; the Snow and Ice Festival in China; free skiing and snowboarding for kids under 12 in Lake Louise, Canada; Winter Sports Festival in Lake Placid USA; free ski and snowboard lessons India; and a world record attempt in La Molina, Spain.
Countries participating include America, Switzerland, Austria, Canada, Finland, Germany, Great Britain, Kazakhstan, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Turkey, Pakistan, India, Japan, Iceland, Australia, Russia and Spain, amongst others. The event’s motto to ‘Explore, Experience and Enjoy the Snow’ will be consistently shared across the world, whilst the worldwide festivities will adhere to the unique identity of each location.
From the 1st January 2012, FIS will also be partnering with the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), Eurosport and Infront Sports & Media to broadcast a World Snow Day TV trailer across the globe. In addition, a virtual World Snow Day promotional campaign has been launched where activities will be featured on the various FIS websites and social media channels for the final days leading into the inaugural event.
January 11, 2012 – The Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2011-12 Para-Equipment Fund, presented by Petro-Canada, a Suncor Energy business, and supported by Sport Canada and the CPC.
The Para-Equipment Fund delivers grants of up to $5,000 to national sport organizations and provincial and local-level clubs to purchase adapted equipment – for sports such as wheelchair basketball, sledge hockey or sit-skiing, for example – to enable people with a disability to participate in sport.
In all, 33 sports organizations across the country, representing 21 different sports among them, have received a total of $116,670.
Grants are awarded to cover 50 per cent of the total cost of the equipment. The applicant is responsible for covering the other 50 per cent of the equipment costs, bringing this year’s total equipment investment to $233,340.
“We recognize that while it is important to support the Canadian Paralympic Team competing on the world stage, it is also vital to support introductory efforts to help more Canadians with a disability get active in the first place,” said Steven Keith of Petro-Canada, a long-time partner of the Canadian Paralympic Committee and presenting sponsor of the Para-Equipment Fund.
“Access to adapted equipment can sometimes be a barrier for people with a disability trying sports for the first time. We’re extremely proud to support this grassroots initiative and to help organizations make it easier for all Canadians to have the opportunity to participate.”
“On behalf of the Canadian Paralympic Committee, I’d like to congratulate all the recipients of the Para-Equipment Fund,” said Henry Storgaard, President of the Canadian Paralympic Committee. “It’s very exciting to see the increase in the availability of adapted sports equipment, ensuring that more people with a disability can enjoy the benefits of sport. Thank you, Petro-Canada, for supporting this essential program.”
The next round of applications for the Para-Equipment Fund will be accepted starting January 25, 2012. (Applications for the Recruitment Programs Fund, which helps organizations provide positive introductory sport experiences for people with a disability, will also open Jan. 25.)
2011-12 Para-Equipment Fund Recipients
– Association québécoise de sports pour paralytiques cérébraux, Boccia, Montreal, Quebec
– Tbo Tbon Wheelchair rugby, Montreal, Quebec
– Athletics NB Para-athletics, Dieppe, New Brunswick
– Canadian Association for Disabled Skiing – National Capital Division, Para-alpine skiing and snowboarding, Ottawa, Ontario
– Canoe Kayak Saskatchewan, Canoe/kayak, Regina, Saskatchewan
– Cowichan Therapeutic Riding Association, Para-equestrian, Duncan, British Columbia
– Disabled Skiiers Association of BC, Para-alpine skiing, Richmond, British Columbia
– Manitoba Wheelchair Sports Association, Wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, Winnipeg, Manitoba
– National Cycling Centre-Canadian Sport Centre Calgary, Para-cycling, Calgary, Alberta
– NB Quad Rugby, Wheelchair rugby, Riverview, New Brunswick
– Ottawa Stingers Wheelchair Rugby Club, Wheelchair rugby, Ottawa, Ontario
– Pacific Volleyball, Sitting volleyball, Richmond, British Columbia – Revelstoke Nordic Club, Para-Nordic skiing, Revelstoke, British Columbia – SASKI Skiing for Disabled, Para-Nordic skiing, Regina, Saskatchewan
– Sledge Hockey of Eastern Ontario, Sledge hockey, Ottawa, Ontario
– St. Catharines Rowing Club, Rowing, St. Catharines, Ontario
– Variety Village, Wheelchair basketball, Toronto, Ontario
– Association québécoise des sports en fauteuil roulant, Wheelchair basketball, sledge hockey, wheelchair rugby, wheelchair tennis, Montreal, Quebec
– Hockey Luge Montreal, Sledge hockey, Montreal, Quebec
– Adaptive Sports Foundation, Para-alpine skiing, canoe/kayak, Knowlton, Quebec
– Balmy Beach Canoe Club, Canoe/kayak, Toronto, Ontario
– BC Blind Sports and Recreation, Goalball, Vancouver, British Columbia
– Canadian Association for Disabled Skiing – NS Division, Para-alpine skiing and snowboarding, Halifax, Nova Scotia
– Calgary Wheelchair Rugby Association, Wheelchair rugby, Calgary, Alberta
– City of Surrey Sitting volleyball, Surrey, British Columbia – Cross Country Ski Association Manitoba, Para-Nordic skiing, Winnipeg, Manitoba
– Cruisers Sports for the Physically Disabled, Wheelchair basketball, para-athletics, boccia, Mississauga, Ontario
– London and District Wheelchair Sports, Wheelchair rugby, London, Ontario
– Pilot Butte Sledge, Sledge hockey, Pilot Butte, Saskatchewan
– Regina Ski Club, Para-alpine skiing, Regina, Saskatchewan
– Rowing British Columbia, Rowing, Richmond, British Columbia
– Tennis Canada, Wheelchair tennis, National
– Toronto Wheelchair Rugby, Wheelchair rugby, Toronto, Ontario
November 21, 2011 – CAAWS announced today that it is offering twelve grants of $900 to active girls and women and/or organizations offering sport programs targeted to girls and women.
For more details and information, please review the submission criteria, application process, deadlines, and frequently asked questions on our website HERE. You can also apply directly by completing the online application form!
Please note that applications will only be accepted between November 21, 2011 and December 9, 2011. Applications received before or after these dates will not be considered. The 2012 WISE Fund recipients will be announced in February 2012.
November 18, 2011 (Montreal, QC) – The Canadian Olympic Committee announced that Canadian elite athletes hoping to achieve podium results received a strong funding boost today, as well as an important new memorandum of understanding. The COC is proud to invest in the country’s greatest ambassadors – the athletes who stand up for excellence, healthy living, fair play and the potential of the individual. We are proud to invest in their Olympic dreams.
The COC will immediately inject a further $5 million for Own the Podium (OTP) programming in coaching, training and support, to help athletes achieve their personal best on the Olympic stage. This new investment brings the COC’s contribution in the 2009-2012 quadrennial period to $25 million.
This new memorandum of understanding represents a significant step to strengthen, coordinate and harmonize the high performance sport system focused on leading the creation and delivery of programs and services to increase podium results.
“This new additional funding agreement underscores our strong commitment to helping athletes achieve medal results and inspiring our youth,” said COC President Marcel Aubut. “Vancouver 2010 has taught us that sport makes our country better. Young people are introduced to new heroes to idolize and the country unifies behind them. We have an ambitious goal in London next year: Top 12 in 2012. It is the athletes who will deliver this historic result.”
The following are some of the new agreement’s highlights:
• Strengthened leadership to the Canadian high performance sport community at the highest level;
• Secure funding to sports/athletes with medal potential at future Olympic Games;
• Continued valued consulting and expert technical support to targeted podium potential sports, athletes and coaches;
• Improved alignment within Canada’s high performance sport leaders regarding their roles to increase efficiency and to streamline the efficiency and expertise of each of the COC and OTP;
• Opportunity to influence and lead the collection and dissemination of best practices and world-class technologies and sport science innovations.
“We are extremely pleased with this new agreement, which is a leap forward for sport in this country,” said John Furlong, Chair of Own the Podium. “It will enhance opportunities for our athletes to participate and excel in sport through leadership and strategic investments in our sport system.”
“I am ecstatic we have the full support of the Canadian Olympic Committee to give me every advantage possible for podium success at the London Olympic Games,” said double Olympic diving silver medallist Alexandre Despatie.
“With the Canadian Olympic Committee behind us, Canadian Olympians can train knowing that everything is being done to support us on our journey to Sochi in 2014,” said Freestyle Skier Chloé Dufour-Lapointe.
Own the Podium’s largest contributors of funding are the Government of Canada, Canadian Olympic Committee, Canadian Paralympic Committee and the Canadian Olympic Foundation, as well as additional funding provided by corporate Canada.
“The Government of Canada is proud to support Canadian athletes. We are very pleased to see the alignment of these two great organizations in supporting our athletes and coaches to continue Canada’s great Olympic Games legacy,” said Sport Minister Bal Gosal. “Today’s announcement will help build an even better world-class national sport system—one that will help our Canadian athletes succeed at the highest levels.”
The COC was the co-founding partner of OTP, with VANOC, Sport Canada, the Canadian Paralympic Committee and Winsport Canada, and was the driving force to build that strong partnership into a national initiative, reflecting what Canadians want from Canada’s high performance athletes and advancing the “excellence” goal of the Canadian Sport Policy.
November 17, 2011 (Ottawa, ON) – Women 55-70+ are a growing demographic group, warranting attention from Canada’s sport community. According to Statistics Canada, women 55-70+ will make up 20.4% of the entire Canadian female population by 2021. These `young seniors` do not want to slow down, in fact they want to do things they never had a chance to do, including sport and physical activity. This month’s Lunch and Learn will feature CAAWS’ successful Physical Activity and Sport for Women 55-70+ project, sharing the main challenges and solutions to participation for this age group, lessons learned through community-based pilot projects, and practical resources for sport and physical activity organizations. Shelley Callaghan, the project manager, will share stories and lead a discussion that will inspire you to take action on developing, enhancing or adapting services and programs for women 55-70+.
Please join CAAWS for this exciting professional development and networking gathering!
Thursday, December 1, 2011 12pm – 2pm *Lunch Included
Courtside B, RA Centre – 2451 Riverside Drive, Ottawa
Registration deadline: November 24, 2011
Due to high numbers of last minute cancellations and no shows, CAAWS has introduced a small fee for the popular Lunch and Learn events. Registration fees will help subsidize the overall cost of the event.
Workshop Cost: $15 (Includes Lunch)*
*Subsidies are available – please contact the CAAWS office for more information.
To register, please provide the info below to CAAWS by November 24, 2011
Mail: N202 – 801 King Edward Avenue, Ottawa ON K1N 6N5
Email: caaws@caaws.ca Fax: 613.562.5668
* VISA * Mastercard * Cheque – payable to CAAWS; please mail or deliver to the CAAWS office.
Name on Credit Card:
Credit Card Number:
Expiry Date: Security Code:
Note: Payments are refundable until Thursday, November 24, 2011.
Do you require a receipt for payment? * NO * YES (receipt will be provided at the event)
For more information please contact Karras Hagglund at caaws@caaws.ca or 613.562.5667
April 16, 2011 (Norman Wells, NT) – Fast and Female hosted its second Northern Youth Empowerment Weekend in the Norman Wells, Northwest Territories on April 8, 9, and 10, 2011. A total of 46 female skiers between the ages of 9 to 19 from nine NT communities were joined by six ambassadors, three instructors, nine chaperones and 10 volunteers for this unique weekend aimed at inspiring and motivating aboriginal girls in cross-country skiing. This year’s event had a special focus on encouraging youth participation in the Sahtu region.
Throughout the weekend, participants had the opportunity to get first-hand instructions both on and off snow from former National Ski Team member and Northwest Territories athlete, Sarah Daitch, and 4-time Olympian, Sharon Firth. Biathlon expert Lindsey Bolivar and former NCAA athlete, Claire Rennie, were also on site with other elite instructors to share their wisdom with the girls.
On Friday, participants gathered for a welcome dinner, a team poster making session, and a leadership workshop for the teens. The younger participants enjoyed a gymnastic lesson compliment of NWT Gymnastics Association.
Saturday’s activities focused on technical cross-country skiing drills, followed by a Zumba dance lesson from Fit 2 the T, and a yoga class. The youth also had a presentation by Olympian Sharon Firth about her journey from the trails of Inuvik to the world stage in cross country skiing.
The weekend-long camp concluded on Sunday with a community ski day and a distance ski challenge to the Norman Wells Ski cabin.
“I learned so many things this weekend,” said Annah Hanthorn, 16 years old. “The camp reminded me how many people have supported me in my sport and helped me learn more on my ski technique. I also learned more yoga moves and even how to Zumba dance. The key ideas I am taking home with me are to encourage others in my sport, to spread the LOVE and to be reminded of the encouraging words I heard from the ambassadors,” she added.
Fast and Female’s programming is intensely focused on working with girls in sports and exposing them to inspiring female athletic role models. In doing so, Fast and Female hopes to increase the retention of girls in sports. As it currently stands, girls are six times more likely to drop out of sports than boys. It is believed that this ratio increases when girls are living in remote communities and face smaller peer groups to support them in their athletic endeavors.
“There is a need for a critical mass of girls to keep the kids skiing together and having fun,” affirmed local event organizer Karen Johnson. “I remember wishing when my girls were in Jackrabbits that enough girls would stay skiing that the kids could flow together into the next level of ski programmingŠ Luckily for me and my girls, that wish has come true.”
“Boys get lots of opportunities to go out for events, but there is very little for girls in the community,” admitted Krista Kerr, a teacher from the Dene community Lutsel K’e. “This event does not require the numbers that team sports do, so it gives girls the chance to participate and travel”.
Jennifer Waterhouse, a teacher from Deline added: “Its always great when the youth in our community get the chance to visit other communities, meet other youth and get exposed to healthy activities. I know the Deline girls had a great time and this weekend has inspired me to build our ski program.”
Thanks to the support of many sponsors, participation to the event was free, including travel, accommodation and food. The small group of participants was selected on the basis of personal merit, motivation and athletic commitment.
In fact, the 2011 Fast and Female Northern Youth Empowerment Weekend was made possible thanks to valuable event-specific partners such as First Air, the Government of the Northwest Territories, the Sahtu Divisional Education Council, the NWT Ski Division, the Colville Lake School Board, the Sport North Federation, the Norman Wells RCMP, the Jokabeca Foundation at The Calgary Foundation, Sorpotimist International, and the Ski North Program. Fast and Female’s national sponsors – including Best Buy, Buff Multifunctional Headwear, Clarins Canada, Cold-FX, and Cross-Country Canada – also provided valuable resources to make this event possible.
“I take great pride in the fact that there are no financial barriers for girls to take part in this event,” added Daitch. “This is especially important for girls from isolated communities. The sponsors who contributed to this event have changed lives and we are greatly thankful for their support.”
Subsequent to this most recent Fast and Female event, the growing organization concludes a busy winter season which saw nine events and a reach of 875 girls across Canada and the United States.
In the coming weeks, Fast and Female will be announcing its event schedule for the Spring and Summer.
June 24, 2013 (Park City, UT) – In a sure sign of the coming 2014 Olympic Winter Games season, members of the US National ski jumping team have arrived in Europe to begin their first international preparation period.
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