Be a part of the movement to protect youth from sexual abuse in B.C. sport
Join us on November 21st for an impactful and empowering day of expert-led discussion, policy development, and networking on protecting youth from sexual abuse in sport.
In partnership with the Coaching Association of Canada, the Canadian Centre for Child Protection, and the Respect Group, viaSport is uniting leaders who are passionate about making the changes needed so that sport is a safe and welcoming place for all children.
With an approximate 2-8% of (reported) athletes experiencing sexual abuse within the context of sport, events like this are critical to driving change within the system.
This is an open event for anyone who wishes to attend and impact change within sport in B.C.
Capacity is limited - register today to secure your spot ➡️
Event schedule:
9:30 AM - 9:45 AM | Introduction and Welcome - Lorraine Lafrenière
9:45 AM - 11:15 AM | Film Screening: Swift Current
- A feature length documentary exploring former NHLer Sheldon Kennedy and his journey from a young hockey player sexually abused by his junior hockey coach to his work today as a crusader for victims of abuse in Canada and worldwide.
11:15 AM - 11:30 AM | Break
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM | Panel Discussion
- Moderator: Lorraine Lafrenière
- Panelists: Sheldon Kennedy, Wayne McNeil, Shelley Coolidge, Sheila Bouman, Noni Classen
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM | Lunch and Networking
1:30 PM - 4:30 PM | Policy Development Workshop
- Facilitated by the Canadian Centre for Child Protection, sport organizations will have the opportunity to learn the process of determining where updates need to be made in policies, in relation to protecting children from abuse, and how to empower those working with children to implement those policies.
Cost:
- Screening and Panel Discussion: FREE
- Screening, Panel Discussion, Lunch, and Policy Development Workshop: $40
Featured Leaders:
- Sheldon Kennedy, Founder, Respect Group
- Wayne McNeil, Founder, Respect Group
- Lorraine Lafrenière, CEO, Coaching Association of Canada
- Shelley Coolidge, Manager of Professional Coaching Services, Coaching Association of Canada
- Sheila Bouman, CEO, viaSport B.C.
- Noni Classen, Director of Education, Canadian Centre for Child Protection
Upcoming Events
June 4, 2023 to June 6, 2023
Event registration
Are you ready to register for this full day event? Click the link below to register for the morning or the entire day!
Location
This event will be held at the VIFF Vancity Theatre in Vancouver. The adddress is 1181 Seymour St., Vancouver, BC V6B 2E8
How can I build a safer sport environment?
The Responsible Coaching Movement (RCM) is a call to action for sport organizations to implement policies and processes to ensure athletes are safe. Coordinated by the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) and the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport, it highlights three key areas:
- Rule of Two
- Background Screening
- Respect and Ethics Training
Pledge with us
We encourage all sport organizations to take the Responsible Coaching Movement pledge and commit to ensure all athletes and coaches are protected.