Join Athletics Ontario in partnership with Athletics Canada at the Toronto Track & Field Centre on Saturday, April 15 and Sunday, April 16 to BECOME PARA READY in 2023.
This is a unique event designed specifically for coaches and club administrators looking to expand the reach and inclusivity of their Athletics program through interacting, supporting, and engaging with Para athletes – and coaches currently working with Para athletes who would like to expand their knowledge to broaden their coaching perspective from the presenters and athletes.
Over the course of the two days, participants will be guided on the best practices to become more inclusive. They will also develop an understanding of the nuances of Para Athletics to allow them to better support athletes with disabilities.
The list of presenters includes world-class athletes and experts in the world of Para Athletics.
- Fannie Smith – Manager, Para Development at Athletics Canada
- Craig Blackman & Faye Blackwood (Visually Impaired Running with I Be Fast Club)
- Lisa Myers (Wheelchair Racing with Cruisers Sports)
- Ken Hall (Seated & Ambulatory Throws with Cruisers Sports)
- Isaac Seabrook (Strength and Conditioning Coach)
- Para athletes:
- Marissa Papaconstantinou (PLY, amputee sprinter);
- Renee Foessel (PLY, ambulatory para thrower);
- Nandini Sharma (national team wheelchair racer);
- Tiffany Gaudette (provincial team seated thrower);
- George Quarcoo (national team visually impaired runner) and France John (guide)
In addition to outstanding individual presentations, there will also be insightful panels and a joint presentation by Cruisers Sports, Ontario Blind Sports, Ontario CP Sports Association, and the Ontario Para Network. The weekend will close with an open Q&A session – with the goal to maximize participation through classroom and practical sessions and open dialogue and exchanges.
The cost to attend – including lunch – is:
$60 for non-AO members
$50 for AO members
This will be a wonderful weekend of inclusivity, something the sport of Athletics is known for.
To register, please click here.
