Since its establishment, the non-profit organization has played a crucial role in developing and promoting sports in Ottawa. Learn more about the mission and role of the Ottawa Sport Council on ottawa1.one.
History of the Organization
Founded in 2013, the non-profit organization has represented sports in Ottawa ever since. The Ottawa Sport Council aims to create and develop a sporting environment for every local resident, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, abilities, or income. The organization exists thanks to the support of benefactors and additional contributions from concerned individuals.
The mission of the Ottawa Sport Council is to enrich the sporting experience in Canada’s capital and promote a healthy lifestyle. This makes sports programs more accessible and attractive to those who want to participate.
Key Areas of Work of the Ottawa Sport Council
The organization focuses on several key areas, each playing a vital role:
- Creating educational resources to spread useful information about sports, physical activity, and a healthy lifestyle. This includes seminars and training sessions targeted at coaches, parents, and children who aspire to be part of the sports community. Close collaboration with schools and other educational institutions allows for more effective implementation of sports education programs.
- Encouraging sports tourism in Ottawa. Council staff work with tourism organizations and coordinate sporting events that attract visitors. Supporting athletes participating in competitions at various levels also contributes to this goal.
- Promoting the values and benefits of sports and encouraging youth participation. The Council promotes sports programs and events while working closely with families and communities. These efforts help create a supportive environment for children’s involvement in sports.
- Enhancing the credibility of amateur organizations through financial and administrative support. The Council assists such organizations in expanding their services and programs.
The Ottawa Sport Council is often referred to as a Canadian leader in developing a high-quality and inclusive sports environment, where not only participation is encouraged, but every contribution is valued. For the Council, sports are an integral part of everyday community life and public health.
Support for the Ottawa Sport Council
Every Ottawa resident has the opportunity to develop their skills, boost their confidence, and enjoy sports. Athletes can progress to an international level. In line with Canada’s sports policy, the Council actively supports the sports sector. Here are a few examples of this commitment:
- Developing programs aimed at improving physical literacy and emphasizing the importance of resilience.
- Providing the community with an adequate number of educational resources.
- Enhancing productivity and ensuring the effective use of available funding.
It is important to note that the director and officials of the Ottawa Sport Council act exclusively in the interest of the community.
The Role of Sports
The Ottawa Sport Council believes that modern sports should be inclusive, ethical, respectful, and innovative. Inclusivity means ensuring access for all, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, income level, or abilities. Removing barriers is essential in this regard.
Sports must be based on mutual respect, fair play, and good sportsmanship, as athletes serve as role models, contributing to a positive sports culture.
At the same time, sports must evolve and adapt to changing times by integrating new technologies. A dynamic and flexible approach to sports will help engage new generations, not only as spectators or fans but also as active participants in sports communities.
“Return to Play”
Under the leadership of the Ottawa Sport Council, 70 local organizations and the City Council developed a roadmap for reviving community sports after COVID-19. The document became a model for how sports can adapt to unusual circumstances. It contained practical tools and resources for the gradual and cautious development of sports in Ottawa.
The idea behind the roadmap was to support community sports organizations and ensure they were well-equipped to manage changes and return to a safe playing environment.
The initial measures included strategic planning seminars, volunteer engagement initiatives, and risk minimization strategies.
Ottawa Sport Council’s Executive Director, Marcia Morris, shared more insights about “Return to Play.” She explained that the program enabled representatives of different organizations to learn from each other and engage in meaningful dialogue. According to her, during the COVID-19 period, community sports became more united and significantly stronger.
Overall, the work of the Ottawa Sport Council has a profoundly positive impact on the lives of Ottawa’s residents by making it more active, vibrant, and healthier.