Involvement in sport plays a critical role in supporting new immigrant children and youth in Ottawa by creating safe, inclusive spaces where participation is prioritized over performance. Many newcomer youth face cultural adjustment, language barriers, and social isolation. Non-competitive sport reduces pressure and anxiety, allowing youth to engage at their own pace without fear of judgment or failure.
Our environment emphasize play, cooperation, and skill development over winning, which helps build confidence, trust, and a sense of belonging. Youth can form social connections, practice communication skills, and learn cultural norms in an informal and supportive setting. This is particularly important for those who may have limited prior exposure to organized sport or who come from contexts where competitive systems were inaccessible.
In a diverse city like Ottawa, sport also encourages cross-cultural interaction, mutual respect, and teamwork among peers from different backgrounds. By focusing on enjoyment and inclusion, non-competitive sport supports mental well-being, physical health, and positive integration outcomes, helping newcomer youth feel connected, capable, and valued within their new community.
We believe that every body is an athletic body!
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