BENEFITS OF A COMMUNITY SPORT COUNCIL communitysportnetwork

SPORT CAN HELP … Strengthen the local economy Improve the health of all citizens Keep young people out of trouble

ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES It is estimated that physical inactivity among Canadians costs $2.1 billion in 1999 Sport can help reduce the costs of anti-social and socially dysfunctional behaviour such as substance abuse, violence, criminal activity and vandalism Sport tourism is a growing industry. In 1999, more than 25 million visitors attended or participated in sports in Ontario, spending over $4 billion

HEALTH ISSUES Approximately two-thirds of Ontarians are not physically active enough to experience health benefits Between 1981 and 1996, the rates of obesity more than doubled among 7- to 13-year old children There are now more obese children in Canada than adults Physical inactivity is a major contributor to obesity among all population groups

SOCIAL BENEFITS Young people who are involved in sport are less likely to commit crimes Girls who participate in sport are 92 percent less likely to use drugs and 80 percent less likely to have an unwanted pregnancy Economically disadvantaged children are less likely to participate in negative social activities if they are involved in quality sport programs

WE NEED A COLLECTIVE VOICE FOR SPORT IN OUR COMMUNITY

WE NEED A COMMUNITY SPORT COUNCIL

FUNCTIONS OF A COMMUNITY SPORT COUNCIL Coordination (e.g., facility use, program schedules, membership registration) Volunteer recognition (e.g., award banquets, halls of fame) Training (e.g., volunteer screening, coaching development, fundraising, parent seminars) Sport Tourism (e.g., hosting sport events) Promotion (e.g., Sport for All)

THE TIMING IS RIGHT FOR A COMMUNITY SPORT COUNCIL