I·SPARC Suspending Programs and Events Due to Health Concerns over COVID-19

Victoria BC – (Friday, March 13, 2020) – The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation Council (I·SPARC) understands that families and communities are concerned about the COVID-19 outbreak, which has been declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO).

I·SPARC has continued to draw on the guidance provided by WHO, the Canadian government, and BC government in determining what precautionary measures we should take in the delivery of upcoming events. Considering the rapidly changing situation, we have made the decision to suspend all I·SPARC program activities indefinitely in order to do our part in reducing the potential exposure of COVID-19 to participants and communities, especially our most vulnerable community members. The postponement of I∙SPARC events and activities includes:

  • Community Sport Development Camps and Coaching Clinics
  • FitNation Provincial Leader Training
  • HealthBeat Community-Based Post-Screenings
  • Indigenous RunWalk
  • Provincial Athlete Development Camps
  • Team BC selection or training events for the 2020 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG)
  • Team BC Player Selection Camp for the 2020 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships (NAHC)
  • Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport, Provincial Ceremony

At this time, the 2020 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships has been cancelled. The 2020 North American Indigenous Games are still scheduled to proceed; however, we remain in contact with the host organizing committee regarding any changes to the scheduled competitions, while continuing to develop contingency plans for Indigenous athletes and coaches in BC.

We thank our event hosts, participants, and communities affected by these changes for your support and understanding. Together we will do our part to safeguard the health and well-being of our families and communities and take an active role in reducing the impact of this virus.

For more information about COVID-19, how to keep yourself safe, and what to do if you develop symptoms, please visit:

Sincerely,

Rick Brant
Executive Director