Athletics Ontario (AO) announces an update to its vaccine mandate, previously made in September 2021. During an AO Board of Directors meeting on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, the Board reviewed and discussed the vaccine mandate regarding children 5-11 years of age.

In addition to requiring all individuals ages 12 and older to be vaccinated, children between the ages of 5 and 11 years of age who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccination will now be required to provide proof of double-vaccination in order to participate in or attend Athletics Ontario sanctioned indoor and outdoor track, cross country and other events and activities, effective immediately. It was also agreed that those with legitimate medical exemptions must provide proof of medical exemption eligibility. If you have a medical exemption, please contact the Athletics Ontario office at [email protected].

Following Health Canada’s approval of the paediatric Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine for children aged 5 to 11 years of age,  AO’s policy is intended to protect all participants – athletes, coaches, volunteers and parents – of all ages and vulnerabilities, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, against this virus. This policy is intended to reduce the risk of spreading the virus at AO events, including the spread from vaccinated to unvaccinated individuals. This is particularly important considering the prevalence and growth of new variants.

By reducing risks, we are helping to reduce the spread of the virus in our communities and helping to ease the pressure on our health care services, hospitals and front-line workers.  Such measures will also ultimately support our government to further reduce – and ultimately end – the restrictions related to COVID-19 and prevent further restrictions and lockdowns.

As the pandemic evolves, the AO Board of Directors will continue to monitor the situation and revise our policies as required.

Dean Hustwick
President and Chair of the Board of Directors