The Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) is excited to announce the launch of a new sports initiative that will be piloted in 2025 called All-In Sports. If the pilot is successful, this initiative will expand sport opportunities for Kindergarten to Grade 8 students across the district.
As presented to and approved by the Board of Trustees in December, the All-In Sports league will provide all young interested athletes the opportunity to learn and play sports in a structured environment. There will be a focus on games and tournaments between local schools, which will allow for more students to attend more sporting events.
Students will have the opportunity to play traditional sports such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, etc. but also learn new sports and activities such as handball, korfball and ultimate frisbee.
This new league will provide the opportunity to have more school teams play in more events. This league will run in addition to any intramurals that currently take place at schools, not replace it.
“As a former physical education teacher, coach, and huge supporter of student athletics, I am thrilled that we are in a position to make the significant financial commitment necessary for this enhanced and expanded sports league that will benefit all of our students,” says UCDSB Chair Jamie Schoular.
All-In Sports will be at no cost to families but is a financial investment for the UCDSB. This new league will follow best practices as developed by the Coaching Association of Canada and Ophea to ensure a safe, engaging but valuable sporting experience for young athletes.
A steering committee of community members, educators and coaches has been established with representation from across the district. A partnership with the Rick Hansen Foundation has also been formed. To date, 20 schools are part of the official pilot with more than 25 schools requesting to come on board.
“Our aim is to increase student participation in sports and activities. Our hope is that the pilot goes well and that we can expand it to all elementary and intermediate schools next school year. There are numerous physical and psychological benefits to being involved in sports, and we want to ensure that all students get the opportunity,” adds Schoular.
Quick Facts About the All-In Sports Pilot Program:
What prompted the All-In Sports initiative?
The initiative addresses financial and transportation barriers for families, ensuring more students can participate in sports. All-In Sports is not about cutting costs or saving money.
How is the program funded?
We are currently in a surplus position. Our financial team as well as our Board of Trustees felt confident that we are able to allocate funds to this program without jeopardizing other programs.
Will students still travel to compete with other schools?
Yes. Students will still compete against other schools. There will be a focus on more local competitions, which will allow for increased opportunities and less travel time.
Are competitive teams being replaced?
No. Students will still compete on organized school sports teams against other schools. The pilot aims to offer more opportunities for students in grades K-8 to participate in sports, potentially resulting in additional teams and sports at schools.
Will this replace intramural sports at schools?
This league will run in addition to any intramurals that currently take place at schools, not replace it.
When will tournaments and practices take place and how will teams be formed?
We are early in the pilot stage for this program. More details will be shared at a later date.
For media inquires, please contact:
April Scott-Clarke
[email protected]
Upper Canada District School Board