It’s just about having fun? Interrogating the lived experiences of newcomers to Canada in introductory winter sport programmes
Abstract
This study examined the underexplored relationship between winter sport, newcomer participation, integration, and national identity.
Notes
Community organizations: WinSport
Key populations: newcomers to Canada participating in an introduction to winter sport program at WinSport in Calgary
Key recommendations:
Alter the WNP and other newcomer introductory sport programs to intentionally focus on building social connections
Avoid the pitfall of these sport programs acting as assimilation tools into White Canadian identity.
Expand WNP and other similar programs to have more options for adult programming.
Location: Calgary, AB
Future research / gaps identified: Study findings are for a specific sample in a specific program and location, thus findings are not generalizable.
Integration timeline: not defined
Key findings:
The study highlighted the multifaceted ways in which winter sports contribute to the integration of newcomers into Canadian society, emphasizing the significance of these programs in fostering a sense of belonging and identity.
The paper showcased the diverse outcomes and varied meanings experienced by participants in the WinSport Newcomers Programme, underscoring the complex and individualized nature of their experiences.
The study identified program shortcomings, emphasizing the need to address issues such as power asymmetries and the collective nature of integration to enhance the experiences of newcomers in winter sports.
Open access: No