Ottawa Sport Council Releases Resource Guide to Make Local Sports More Inclusive

The Ottawa Sport Council has taken a significant step towards making sports more inclusive and accessible for all with the release of “The Belonging Playbook.” This resource guide aims to remove barriers faced by athletes with disabilities, from diverse cultures, or in difficult financial situations.

Marcia Morris, the executive director of the council, highlighted the importance of adapting sports leagues to include everyone. Many organizations in Ottawa are already aware of the issues and are eager to make necessary adaptations, but they often struggle with where to start. The playbook serves as a comprehensive guide to help organizations create more inclusive spaces in community sports.

One such organization working towards inclusivity is the Nepean Minor Hockey Association (NMHA). President Helen Tyson acknowledged the traditional lack of diversity in hockey and the rising costs that make it challenging for kids to participate. The NMHA is actively working to address financial and cultural barriers to ensure that hockey is accessible to all who want to play.

Despite these efforts, discrimination still exists in sports, particularly in hockey. Data released by Hockey Canada revealed a significant increase in penalties for discriminatory taunts last year. For 17-year-old Rouba El Khatib, playing hockey during Ramadan has presented challenges, but programs like Hockey 4 Youth have provided her with the opportunity to pursue her passion for the sport.

Overall, the release of “The Belonging Playbook” is a significant step towards creating more inclusive and diverse spaces in community sports. By addressing barriers and promoting diversity, organizations like the Ottawa Sport Council and the NMHA are working towards ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in sports, regardless of their background or circumstances.