Beyond the Game

The power of sport goes beyond the game - it's about creating spaces where every young person feels they belong, where barriers are broken down, and where lifelong friendships and skills are built. Join us as we dive into the benefits, challenges, successes, and opportunities in the current sport and play landscape, and how Jumpstart is empowering local organizations to work towards a common goal of ensuring all Canadian kids can play. 

Episode 1 - Power of Community

Join host Saroya Tinker in her conversation with Kickback Foundation and Lay-Up Youth Basketball, along with Canadian hockey legend Hayley Wickenheiser, as they discuss the role of sport and play in discovering the power of community.

Visit YouTube to watch the full episodes with English or French subtitles.

Episode 2 - French Edition: Best Self Through Sport & Future of Sport

Join host Benoit Huot for the first French episode of Beyond the Game, as he leads an inspiring conversation with three community organizations out of Quebec: Fondation Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, Champions for Life, and Parasports Quebec.

Together, they explore how sport and play help young people discover their potential, highlighting the impact of their organizations and the ways they create environments where youth can truly shine. In addition, the panellists highlight how they are driving change by removing cost barriers to sport, showcasing the benefits of sport and the arts, nurturing creativity, and collaborating closely with Inuit schools.

Episode 3: Future of Sport with Dom Cozzolino

Join host Benoit Huot for the third episode of Beyond the Game, where he leads an inspiring conversation with three community organizations that stand as true champions for the future of sport: Philpott Tennis, the Chill Foundation, and the Cruiser Sports Foundation - alongside Canadian Paralympic Dominic Cozzolino.

This episode explores how sports groups are breaking down financial, social, and systemic barriers so all young people, regardless of background or ability, can participate and thrive. The panellists offer deep insights into ongoing challenges kids face, from cost and transportation to confidence, and highlight the innovative programs, technologies, and partnerships opening new doors for the next generation.

Episode 4: Championing Gender Equity

Join Saroya Tinker for the fourth episode of Beyond the Game, where she dives deeper into Gender Equity in Sport alongside leading voices who are shaping the future of athletics in Canada. At the roundtable, Saroya is joined by Carol Edelkoort, Executive Director of the FAB Foundation; Jenny Lim, Manager of Programs at Canadian Women & Sport; Katee Hui, Founder and Executive Director of Laces Community Club; and Erin McLeod, goalkeeper for Canada’s Women’s National Soccer Team.

Together, they explore the ongoing journey toward true gender equity in Canadian sport, highlighting persistent barriers, celebrating changemakers, and discussing fresh, forward‑thinking ideas driving progress.

This episode shines a light on how dismantling systemic obstacles, amplifying diverse voices, and building inclusive spaces can reshape the game for generations to come.

Episode 5: Discovering Your Best Self Through Sport

Join host Benoit Huot for Episode 5 of Beyond the Game, where he explores how sport unlocks the best in young people alongside some of Canada's most passionate voices in youth development.

At the roundtable, Benoit is joined by Rae Lorenz and Tahirah Stanley from Trails Youth Initiative, Kerry Edmonds from 13th Round Fight for Life, and Canada's soccer legend, Christine Sinclair.

Together, they explore how sport goes far beyond the game. Building the confidence, discipline, and identity that shape who young people become. From the role peer support plays in pushing kids through adversity, to the authentic connections formed when youth are given space to just be themselves, to the importance of creating programs that meet kids where they are.

This episode is a reminder that recreational sport is one of the most powerful tools we have for youth development.