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
Heather Presents at Curling Canada's National Congress
At the end of May, Heather and Simon Barrick were invited to present at Curling Canada's National Congress in Halifax, where they shared preliminary findings from the Partners Transforming Curling Project. The presentation provided an opportunity to engage with leaders from across the Canadian curling community and discuss the project's early insights and future directions.
Pictured below are Heather and Simon with Nolan Thiessen, CEO of Curling Canada, following their presentation.
Heather continues to work alongside Curling Canada and other curling stakeholders to advance this important initiative. Planning is already underway for a major symposium in May 2027, which will bring together researchers and sport leaders to further this work. Stay tuned for more details!
Dr. Katie Misener Leads Student Study Abroad Experience in London
This May, Dr. Katie Misener led University of Waterloo students on an International Sport Business Study Abroad course in London, UK. Heather [Last Name] also participated in the trip, which provided students with firsthand exposure to the global sport industry through visits to leading sport organizations, universities, and iconic venues.
Students explored topics such as sport governance, leadership, sustainability, fan engagement, and community impact while engaging with industry professionals and academic experts. The experience highlights Waterloo's commitment to experiential learning and global engagement, helping students connect classroom knowledge with real-world sport industry practice.
Upcoming GARLS research symposium at the University of Waterloo
The Graduate Association of Recreation and Leisure Studies (GARLS) will host its 33rd annual Research Symposium on May 8, 2026 at the University of Waterloo. Centered on the theme “Leisure for Everyone,” the symposium brings together graduate students and scholars to share research, exchange ideas, and engage in meaningful discussions across leisure, sport, and recreation fields. The event is co-chaired by CSRG members Sarah Dunbar and Mathew Szeremeta.