OTTAWA — October 6, 2026 — The Inclusion in Canadian Sports Network (ICSN) and the Sport Information Resource Centre (SIRC) have formalized an ongoing research partnership to build a more equitable and inclusive approach to sport in Canada, backed by evidence.
This partnership will combine ICSN’s community-based expertise, programming and connections across the Canadian sport system with SIRC’s research and knowledge-mobilization expertise to demonstrate the impacts of an equitable and inclusive amateur sport system.
“ICSN works directly with communities, while SIRC turns research into practical tools. Together, we can help sport organizations build on what’s already working, so everyone has the opportunity to participate meaningfully,” said Kim Gurtler, CEO of SIRC.
ICSN and SIRC have already kicked off multiple initiatives to review existing research across the landscape. The goal of this next project is to give sport organizations practical recommendations, showing how sport can help young people build skills, get an education and find career opportunities.
“Creating lasting change in sport requires us to connect evidence with the experiences of the communities we serve. Through this partnership with SIRC, we have an opportunity to build on what we are learning through our programs and networks and help translate that knowledge into meaningful action across the Canadian sport system,” said Shauna Bookal, President & CEO of ICSN.
As two recognized Multi-Sport Organizations (MSO) under Sport Canada, SIRC and ICSN are committed to collaboration and partnership in alignment with the Canada Strong for All strategy announced earlier this year. Both ICSN and SIRC wish to acknowledge that this partnership has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada.
About ICSN
The Inclusion in Canadian Sports Network (ICSN) is a national not-for-profit multisport organization dedicated to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion across the Canadian amateur sport system. Through programs, community connection, education, professional development, leadership opportunities and strategic partnerships, ICSN works to create pathways for greater representation and safe, inclusive and accessible sport experiences across Canada for all.
About SIRC
The Sport Information Resource Centre (SIRC) is Canada’s leader in sport knowledge. Through research, insights and knowledge sharing, SIRC helps build a stronger, more inclusive and evidence-informed Canadian sport system. SIRC is a not-for-profit organization, incorporated in 1973 and funded in part by the Government of Canada.
For media inquiries contact:
Inclusion in Canadian Sports Network (ICSN)
Brigitte Lefebvre-Okankwu
Brand & Creative Coordinator
communications@inclusionincanadiansports.ca
Sport Information Resource Centre (SIRC)
Taylor Matthews
Manager, Outreach and Operations
tmatthews@sirc.ca
