Building healthy communities through sport
We are a collective of researchers at the University of Waterloo and beyond who care deeply about the health and vitality of community sport organizations and their participants. We believe that healthy community sport is a movement, not a moment. Our interdisciplinary research is dedicated to advancing the knowledge and practice of community sport in Canada, with a focus on wellbeing, inclusion, and capacity building.
The Community Sport Research Group brings together scholars, students, and community partners committed to strengthening the organizations and people who make sport possible. Grounded in evidence and guided by collaboration, our work examines how clubs, volunteers, families, and local systems shape participation, safety, leadership, and social impact—translating research into practical solutions that matter.
Through research, capacity-building initiatives, and knowledge mobilization, we support community sport organizations as they navigate change, enhance governance, and foster safe, inclusive environments for athletes and families.
Whether you're a practitioner seeking evidence-informed tools, a student looking to get involved, or a community partner exploring collaboration, we invite you to discover our work and join us.
Together, we’re building healthy communities through sport.
News
Dr. Pennock to present at the Ontario Sport Community Summit
Dr. Pennock will be featured on a panel on safe, inclusive, and holistic sport at the Ontario Sport Community Summit on November 19th. Hosted by partners from MLSE LaunchPad, the Ontario Sport Network and Brock University, the panel will discuss the importance of fostering, safe, inclusive and welcoming spaces across all levels of sport participation.
Dr. Pennock hosts webinar for Parks and Recreation Ontario
Dr. Pennock delivered a talk for Parks and Recreation Ontario entitled ‘From Participants to Partners:
Transforming Youth Engagement, Access, and Inclusion in Recreation’. Drawing from her research in risk, responsibility, and harm in youth sport, Dr. Pennock discussed why rethinking the way we engage with today's youth is essential for increasing youth engagement, improving mental health outcomes, and uplifting future recreation and sport leaders.
Community Highlight: Laura Leitch’s leadership in accessible curling at Ilderton
Laura Leitch, a key member of our research group, is helping lead the growth of accessible curling at the Ilderton Curling Club. This episode of Community Curling highlights the club’s thriving wheelchair curling program, shaped by Laura’s commitment to inclusion and athlete support. Featuring insights from curlers and Paralympian Mark Ideson, the story showcases a community where athletes of all abilities can thrive.