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Grassroots Sports Development: Engaging Marginalized Communities for Long-Term Impact

Grassroots sports development refers to the promotion and support of non-elite, community-based sport and physical activity programs that are accessible to all individuals—especially those who may face barriers to participation due to socioeconomic, cultural, geographic, or systemic factors.

The primary goals of grassroots sports development are to:

  • Increase participation in physical activity and sport at the community level.

  • Foster inclusivity and accessibility by removing financial, cultural, and logistical barriers.

  • Promote physical, mental, and social well-being among diverse populations.

  • Develop foundational skills in youth and adults, including teamwork, discipline, and leadership.

  • Create sustainable pathways for lifelong engagement in sport, whether recreational or competitive.

Unlike high-performance or elite sports systems, which focus on athletic excellence and competition, grassroots sports prioritize broad-based participation, fun, development, and community connection.

In the Canadian context, grassroots sports development often involves partnerships between schools, local nonprofits, municipalities, and national sport organizations to deliver programming that is inclusive, culturally relevant, and aligned with community needs.

Why Grassroots Sports Matter

Sports are more than just games. At the grassroots level, they serve as powerful tools for community engagement, social inclusion, physical and mental health, and youth development. Grassroots sports development refers to community-based, non-elite sports activities that provide access and opportunities to all individuals, particularly those who are underrepresented or disadvantaged.

In Canada, systemic barriers such as socio-economic disparities, racial and cultural exclusion, and lack of infrastructure can prevent marginalized communities—particularly Indigenous, Black, immigrant, and low-income populations—from participating in organized sports. However, numerous studies demonstrate that strategic investment in grassroots sports initiatives can create lasting, positive outcomes for individuals and communities alike.

Read on to explore more about the academic research behind grassroots sports development, how it fosters inclusion, and how organizations like Rising Stars are creating long-term impact in marginalized Canadian communities.

The Socioeconomic Divide in Canadian Sports Participation

In Canada, sports participation is deeply influenced by household income. According to a 2023 report by Canadian Women & Sport, youth from families earning more than $100,000 are nearly three times more likely to participate in organized sports than those from families earning less than $30,000.

The Canadian Heritage Sport Participation 2020 survey also found that racialized Canadians and recent immigrants are significantly underrepresented in mainstream sports. These gaps are compounded by factors such as lack of transportation, prohibitive registration fees, cultural exclusion, and limited awareness of opportunities.

Dr. Guylaine Demers, a professor at Laval University and contributor to the Pan-Canadian Research Agenda on Equity in Sport, notes that “access to sport is an equity issue, not a luxury. Without purposeful design, sport replicates existing power structures rather than dismantling them.”

The Long-Term Benefits of Grassroots Sports Development

Grassroots sports development goes beyond mere participation. It is about fostering resilience, leadership, and long-term community wellbeing. Several Canadian studies provide empirical support for the wide-ranging benefits:

1. Physical and Mental Health

The Public Health Agency of Canada (2021) outlines how regular participation in community-based physical activity is associated with reduced rates of depression, anxiety, and obesity—particularly in low-income populations. Grassroots sports offer consistent, safe, and socially meaningful contexts for youth to stay active.

2. Academic Achievement and Youth Engagement

Research by Dr. Jean Harvey at the University of Ottawa indicates a positive correlation between sports participation and academic success in under-resourced schools. Involvement in team sports improves focus, school attendance, and social integration, reducing dropout rates among marginalized youth.

3. Social Capital and Inclusion

A 2019 study by Sport for Life Canada found that grassroots sports foster trust, leadership skills, and intergenerational ties. These programs build what sociologists refer to as “social capital”—networks and norms that enable cooperation and civic engagement, which are especially critical in marginalized communities.

Barriers Facing Marginalized Communities in Sport

Despite the benefits, systemic and structural barriers continue to limit access to sports for many Canadians. Key challenges include:

  • Financial Barriers: Registration fees, equipment costs, and transportation remain significant hurdles.

  • Cultural and Racial Exclusion: The Black Canadian Coaches Association (BCCA) and Indigenous Sport & Wellness Ontario have highlighted that many youth of colour feel unwelcome or underrepresented in traditional sports organizations.

  • Geographic Isolation: Rural and Northern communities, including many Indigenous reserves, often lack the basic infrastructure needed for consistent sports programming.

  • Lack of Culturally Safe Programming: Programs that fail to account for cultural identity, trauma history, or intergenerational marginalization often see low engagement and high attrition.

Dr. Janice Forsyth, a researcher from Western University and member of the Fisher River Cree Nation, has written extensively about how colonial legacies in Canadian sport still affect Indigenous youth participation. She notes that “we must rethink not only who gets to play but how programs are designed, led, and evaluated.”

Effective Models for Inclusive Grassroots Sports

Fortunately, several Canadian initiatives offer successful models for inclusive, community-led sport:

1. The Long-Term Development (LTD) Model by Sport for Life

This model advocates for age- and skill-appropriate sport programming from childhood to adulthood. It emphasizes fun, development, and accessibility over competition and early specialization. Grassroots adaptations of LTD help local organizations meet youth where they are—both physically and developmentally.

2. MLSE LaunchPad in Toronto

MLSE LaunchPad is a sport-for-development facility that uses sports to deliver social impact programming for youth facing barriers. A 2022 evaluation by Taylor Newberry Consulting found that 78% of participants reported improved leadership skills, while 64% experienced better mental health after six months of involvement.

3. Right to Play’s Promoting Life-skills in Aboriginal Youth (PLAY) Program

This initiative uses sport and play to support the mental health and wellbeing of Indigenous youth. An independent impact assessment by Evaluations Canada showed increased community engagement, resilience, and school participation among youth in remote communities.

The Importance of Representation and Leadership

For grassroots sports programs to succeed long-term, leadership must reflect the communities being served. That means investing in the training and support of coaches, mentors, and administrators from marginalized groups.

According to the 2022 Canadian Coaching Report, less than 10% of certified coaches identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour), despite these communities making up over 25% of Canada’s population. Leadership diversity is not just a representation issue; it directly affects program relevance and community trust.

Rising Stars has made this a core priority—recruiting and mentoring local leaders to ensure programs are culturally responsive and community-driven.

Measuring Impact and Ensuring Sustainability

Long-term impact in grassroots sports development requires robust evaluation, continuous community engagement, and stable funding. Key metrics often include:

  • Youth retention and program attendance rates

  • Self-reported improvements in mental and physical health

  • School performance and behavioral outcomes

  • Increased leadership opportunities for community members

The True Sport Foundation encourages the use of Participatory Action Research (PAR), an inclusive evaluation approach that centers participant voices and community priorities in determining program success.

Case Study: Rising Stars in Action

Rising Stars is a Canadian community-based sports organization working to dismantle barriers and uplift youth in marginalized communities through sport, mentorship, and leadership training.

Operating across Ontario and in Northern Quebec, Rising Stars delivers after-school, school break, and summer basketball, soccer, and multi-sport programs that are:

  • Free or low-cost, with all necessary equipment provided;

  • Culturally responsive, led by mentors who understand the unique challenges youth face;

  • Holistic, combining sport with nutrition support, tutoring, and mental wellness resources;

  • Locally rooted, with community partners including educators, school boards, and indigenous education ambassadors. 

Rising Stars believes that sport can be a vehicle for intergenerational change—and their model reflects that commitment by embedding leadership opportunities for youth alumni to become peer mentors, coaches, and advocates.

Final Thoughts: Building an Equitable Future Through Sport

Grassroots sports development holds transformative potential—but only if we are intentional in how we design and deliver programs. Equity must be the cornerstone of sports policy and practice in Canada. That means recognizing systemic barriers, embracing culturally safe programming, and investing in the leadership of marginalized communities.

The research is clear: when done right, grassroots sports can foster health, resilience, connection, and opportunity across generations.

At Rising Stars, we are committed to building that brighter future by empowering marginalized youth through sports that uplift, connect, and inspire. Whether you’re a parent, educator, funder, or community leader, we invite you to be part of this journey.

Reach out to us today to learn more or get involved: https://riseabovetherest.ca/contact/



Rising Stars

MORRIS PARRAS

RS Technical Director

Brock University, NCCP Level III

SPECIALTIES

*Soccer Development
*Sport Promotion

VAL SEARGEANT

RS Technical Director

Humber College, Dip.
NCCP – Physical Literacy, Master Trainer
Athletics Ontario – RJTW, Master Trainer

SPECIALTIES

*Track & Field  
*Athletic Development

As a Technical Director at Rising Stars, Val coordinates both recreation and competitive track and field programs in support of youth, students-athletes and athletes of all abilities.

As a former elite athlete, Val competed and set records in both track and field events.  He is a two-time member of the Canadian National Track and Field Team, and a former Barbados 110mH National Champion.  Val is a Run Jump Throw Wheel Facilitator for Athletics Ontario, the recognized provincial sport organization for Track & Field, Cross Country, and Road Racing in Ontario.  Val is the founder and head coach of Stoney Creek Athletics and the Track & Field Coordinator for the International CANUSA Games.  He also currently serves as the Head Para Athletics Coach for the Hamilton Olympic Club.

MELISSA FAMME

RS Regional Director – Athletics & Education

Waterloo University, BA
Lakehead University B.Ed, M. Ed

NCAA: Referee/Official
High Five: Principles of Healthy Child Development
Sport for Life: Physical Literacy for Early Childhood

SPECIALTIES

Sport Development 
Youth Development

LYNN CAMPANELLA

RS Technical Director – Play & Recess

NCCP: Coaches Physical Literacy Training

SPECIALTIES

Play & Recreation
Recess Programming

High Five: Principles of Healthy Child Development
Sport for Life: Physical Literacy Instructor Program
Sport for Life: Physical Literacy for Early Childhood
Member of the US Play Coalition (Since 2011)
Founder of the Canadian Play Network
Creator of the PlanetPlay Stencil line

MATT KING

Regional Director

Lakehead University, B.A.
University of Newcastle – Australia, B.Ed
Specialist PE & Health

SPECIALTIES

*Indigenous Education
*Youth & Sport Development

As a Regional Director with Rising Stars, Matt coordinates and facilitates various programs across both our athletics and education divisions. He currently serves as the Director of Rising Stars Basketball Academy Six Nations.

Matt King grew up as an all star athlete. He played NAIG for Team Ontario, and represented Ontario at National Aboriginal basketball camp, where he was selected MVP. Matt competed as a varsity athlete for the Mens Basketball Team at Laurier and Lakehead Universities, and went on to coach U Sport at both Lakehead and Guelph. Matt continued his education and began a professional career as a certified teacher. After ten years of dedicated service as a teacher, coach and Athletic Director (Chair) with the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board, Matt embarked on a new professional adventure, while continuing to compete in triathlons and Iron-Man races. As a Regional Director with Rising Stars, Matt coordinates and facilitates various programs across both our athletics and education divisions. Matt specializes in facilitating programs and instruction for youth, students, and athletes, both on and off reserve. He currently serves as the Director of Rising Stars Basketball Academy – Six Nations.

DEE CHANNER

RS Associate Director

Laurier University, B.A.
Queensland University of Technology – Australia, B.Ed,

SPECIALTIES

*Basketball Development
*Indigenous Education

As an Associate Director at Rising Stars, Dee coordinates programs both in the athletics and education divisions in support of youth, students, and athletes, both on and off reserves.

Delicia Channer competed as a varsity athlete for Laurier University Women’s Basketball Team, where she was the team captain and a division all star. Dee continued her education and began a professional career as a certified teacher. Dee now serves as an Associate Director with Rising Stars. She is a LEAD Facilitator for Indigenous projects, programs, and services. In this role, Dee facilities creative programs and workshops that promote Indigenous awareness and empowerment. As Rising Stars most Senior Programs Instructor & Facilitator, Dee coordinates programs in both the athletics and education divisions. Dee specializes in facilitating programs and instruction for youth, students, and athletes, both on and off reserve. She currently serves as the Head Coach for the Conestoga College Women’s Basketball team.

ERIN FORMAN

Senior Vice President, Director of Programs

Spring Arbor University, BSc Concurrent Education
Specialist Sport Science

SPECIALTIES

* Female Empowerment
* Sport Development

As the Senior Vice President at Rising Stars Athletics & Education, Erin serves as the General Manager of the Education Division. Erin facilitates Advanced Programs and Instruction for administrators, coaches, and teachers. Erin develops and designs programs and curriculum for student engagement and athlete development.

Erin Forman is former member of both Softball Canada’s National team program and Baseball Canada’s National Team. She played in the 2004 Women’s World Series in Japan, and the 2006 World Cup in Taipei. Erin was named All American, All Conference, and Player of the Year, while playing on a U.S. Softball Scholarship. She was recently  inducted into the hall of fame for her achievements in sport. Though Erin’s sport specific bio clearly demonstrates an extensive combination of all around athleticism and personal achievement in softball that very few athletes can claim, equally impressive is her continued commitment to helping others achieve their goals through sport and education in her professional endeavours. Erin serves as role model in her trade and community. She demonstrates an unwavering commitment to making positive differences in the lives of others.

Erin continues to use sport as a vehicle to empower others in the work she does in coaching, and also in her professional endeavours. As a founding partner and Director of Softball Development at Rising Stars, Erin has become one of the most highly sought teachers and coaches of the game. Erin is on the cutting edge of instructional techniques, tools, and theories for optimal development. She has worked with countless local and regional athletes, supporting aspiring student-athletes as they continue in their positive development and successfully pursue opportunities to play college or university ball in Canada, and/or secure U.S. softball scholarships, with many advancing to become provincial and national calibre softball players.

DR. ANDREW PETERS

Founding Partner, President & Chair

McMaster University, B.A., M.A
University of Western Ontario – Ph.D

SPECIALTIES

*Leadership & Empowerment
*Youth & Community Development

As the original Founding Partner of what would eventually become the Rising Stars Group of companies, Dr Peters has been instrumental in the continued expansion and reach of positive sport, youth, and community development programs and special projects.

From early beginnings as a competitive student athlete in the Hamilton region, and many local achievements and recognitions at the secondary level, Dr Peters went on to compete as a varsity athlete for McMaster University, winning numerous regional, provincial and national medals as a member of the Men’s Basketball Team. Dr Peters earned both a B.A., and M.A. at McMaster University, and went on to acquire a teaching certificate from D’Youville College, and a Ph.D. at the University of Western Ontario. These formative years laid the foundation for what would eventually become Rising Stars Athletics and Education.

He continues to serve as the conglomerate’s most senior executive, with 25 years of success in youth and community development through athletics and education. He continues to leverage his passion and extensive experience to engage youth and community in a positive and healthy development.

Dr. Peters devotes his time and energy to creating and partnering with stakeholders in the facilitation of innovative student and athlete development programs. Through strategic partnerships with national, professional, and elite athletes, coaches, sport science professionals, and educators, Dr Peters continues to collaborate with local organizations and expand through offering a variety of programs designed specifically for the benefit of athletes, students, schools, and communities.