Athletics Canada
Ottawa – Following the largest and most exhaustive review in its history, Athletics Canada announced today the high performance structure and strategic direction which will guide the organization in achieving its performance objectives to Rio 2016, through Tokyo 2020, and beyond. From a performance standpoint this means two to three medals at every major Olympic stream competition, a top 15 country ranking in the short term, graduating to a top 10 ranked country at the Paralympic Games.
Performance at major international events will not be the only guiding light, Athletics Canada’s revamped strategic plan places a large emphasis on participation and a positive experience for participants at all levels (grassroots, elementary school, club programs, high school, provincial programs, national team programs, masters, road running and off track). “Our Athletics in Canada plan offers programs for all athletes, coaches and officials, as well as a renewed focus on hosting high quality events. Working closely with partners and members of our athletics family, we are committed to becoming a leading sport organization,” said Rob Guy, Chief Executive Officer.
Follow this link to view the “Athletics in Canada” strategic plan.
The high performance review
The independent review of the Olympic and Paralympic High Performance Program, led by Dr. Peter Davis of Sport Performance Management, began in March 2013 and included direct interviews with athletes, both current and former, coaches, Board Members, staff, Own the Podium, Provincial Branch staff, integrated support team members, Canadian Sport Institute/Centre members as well as other individuals connected to the Canadian athletics community.
The strategic planning process began in September 2013 and wrapped during Athletics Canada’s Semi-Annual General Meeting following Board of Director and Provincial Branch representative approval.
High performance direction
Implementation of the three tiered high performance plan will begin in January 2014, major outcomes includes a shift away from training centres and a move to two high performance hubs, as well as two types of support systems for non-hub based athletes; coach based support and athlete based support.
“The key to success in athletics is a great athlete working with world-class coaches in first-class facilities alongside unparallel integrated support services,” said Head Coach Peter Eriksson. “This became crystal clear through the review process and this is exactly what we plan on building.”
The high performance hubs will be located in British-Columbia and Ontario offering all carded athletes the specialized services they require to achieve their objectives. Athletes will have the option of staying and training in a hub or visiting on a pre-established timetable with their personal coach.
The plan also includes a renewed focus on talent identification and athlete development.
In the following weeks Athletics Canada staff will be visiting a number of provinces to provide additional details and engage in dialogue with membership and stakeholders.
Date Location AC representatives
November 2 Halifax, N.S. Rob Guy, CEO / Peter Eriksson, Head Coach
November 16 Montreal, Que. Peter Eriksson / Mathieu Gentès, Director, PR & Corporate Services
November 24 Toronto, Ont. Rob Guy / Peter Eriksson
November 27 Winnipeg, Man. Rob Guy
November 30 Saskatoon, Sask. Rob Guy / Peter Eriksson
December 7 Vancouver, B.C. Rob Guy / Scott MacDonald, Director, High Performance
December 14 Calgary, Alta. Rob Guy / Peter Eriksson
