By Kristina Davis, Media Relations Coordinator, D Comm, CFPSA Ottawa,
(613) 996-6204, davis.kristina@cfpsa.com

The Canadian Forces (CF) Sports Program has recently been reviewed to better meet the needs of its participants.

Over the past 10 years, the program, which includes sporting events at the local, regional, national and international level, has been sustained despite a significant reduction in the strength of the CF and an increase in operational tempo. A recent review indicated that some changes were necessary.

"The programs at the unit, base and regional level have evolved over the years and a review revealed the need to adjust the sports played at the national and international level," said Gaetan Melançon, Director of Physical Education with the Canadian Forces Personnel Support Agency (CFPSA).

Data compiled from the last three years indicated a significant decline in participation in some sports, while others, available and fully funded, were not played across the CF at all levels. Participation rates are key as National Sports Championships and Conseil International du Sport Militaire (CISM) teams are an outgrowth of local and regional competitions. The CFPSA sports directorate analyzed participation trends and issues in every sport at every level to ensure a comprehensive yet fiscally responsible sports program, available to as many members as possible.

"In conjunction with all CF bases and wings, we concluded that an adjustment to the CF Sports program was required to address these changing participation rates," said Mr. Melançon.

The following changes will be introduced:

• Conseil International du Sport Militaire (CISM) sports program will be cut back by reducing team size, conducting fewer training camps in each sport, and reducing the number of CF members on CISM technical committees
• Broomball will be dropped from the CF National Sports championships
• Fast pitch softball will become a slow pitch championship
• CF broomball, squash and badminton teams will no longer participate at their respective Canadian National Civilian Championships
• CF National Men's Hockey Championship will become non-contact
• CF Nationals will no longer be conducted for biathlon, triathlon, taekwondo and swimming but will continue as part of the CISM program

While these cuts will affect some athletes, competitive sports remain an integral part of the continuing development of CF members and a priority of CFPSA.

"We will continue to keep the overall programs available to everyone who wants to participate," said Greg Pearson, Executive Vice-President, Personnel Support Programs, CFPSA. "However a minimal critical mass is required for sports to be played within the CF Sports program. We will continue to monitor the trends and adjust the program accordingly."