KINNECTION 2023

USASK

CO L L E G E O F K I N E S I O LO G Y M AG A Z I N E

2023

Michelle Duchene (BSKI'99) wins Sask Sport Volunteer Dedication Award Full story on page 20.

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CONTENTS 4

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Dean's message

Major kinesiology grad award winners

Creating opportunities through physical activity with Indigenous youth

Dr. Joel Lanovaz

5 Editor

Alyssa Wiebe, Communications and Advancement Officer

College of Kinesiology

KIN Year In Review

See how we've made progress on the goals of our Strategic Plan 2025.

Publication Date Fall 2023

Published by the College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan

6 USask Kinesiology student dives into academics and competition

8 Shannon Forrester named USask Sustainability Faculty Fellow

Each year at the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) Spring Convocation ceremony, the College of Kinesiology recognizes its Most Outstanding Graduate and Dean’s Medal Recipient.

18 USask well represented at Women’s Football Championships

Over 10 graduates from the University of Saskatchewan were in Vantaa, Finland at the 2022 World Women’s Football Championship.

20 9 Kinesiology's Priebe wins 2023 USask Teaching Award

10 Alumni Spotlight

USask alumnus Brad Meier (BScPE’91, BEd’92) recently retired as a National Hockey League referee after a 20-year career.

13 Cover photo: Louis Christ - Saskatoon

Friend of the College Award Winners 2022

Contact

College of Kinesiology University of Saskatchewan 87 Campus Drive Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B2 Phone: 306-966-1001

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Duchene (BSKI'99) wins Sask Sport Volunteer Dedication Award

Supporters from Saskatchewan and across Canada gathered in person to celebrate the finalists and recipients of the 2022 Saskatchewan Sport Awards

22 Supporting the health of ‘little hearts’ with physical literacy: U of S research

Investigating how physical activity can benefit children with congenital heart disease, by integrating it into their everyday lifestyle.

In memory of Drs. Bell and Bailey

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Kinesiology welcomed over 20 students and 10 chaperones from Montreal Lake Cree Nation and Little Red Cree Nation for a wellness retreat.

26 Hom, Moskaluke, win Junior Men’s Provincials, head to Nationals

28 USask-led research project receives more than $1.3 million to study bone strength development in children with diabetes

29 Saskatchewan universities mark National Health and Fitness Day with new partnership initiative to get Saskatchewan moving

30 Active Living for Pain: Promoting an Active Lifestyle to Help Manage Chronic Pain

One in five people in Saskatchewan experiences chronic pain.

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DEAN'S MESSAGE

Lee Schaeffer's community-based work with the Montreal Lake Cree Nation in this current issue.

I feel that we always say this, but it is hard to believe that a year has passed since I last wrote one of these messages. As the school year starts up again, we reflect on all of the events and amazing accomplishments that have taken place over the last 12 months.

The College of Kinesiology is always working to have Reconciliation top of mind in all that we do. We have continued with our education efforts by once again offering the 4 Seasons of Reconciliation program and running the Orange You Ready initiative, this year in partnership with students and staff from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine. Last fall the College commissioned orange banners that are displayed in front of the PAC and our other recreation facilities that outline the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action specific to Sport, serving as reminders to our commitment. We also are also taking action in our research.

You can read about a great example from Dr.

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As usual, this issue of KINNECTION highlights the wide range of successes of our students, staff, faculty and our amazing alumni. We spotlight student athletes such as Olympian Ryan Wiens and some incredible alumni including Brad Meier, a former NHL referee and Michelle Duchene, a winner of the Sask Sport Volunteer Dedication award. We have some incredible faculty such as Shannon Forrester who is a University leader in the area of sustainability, students and alumni who had successes in curling, football and wrestling, and we highlight talented and dedicated students who have received our top awards at convocation. It always makes me proud to see all of these stories and more collected together here.

The research mission of the College is a critical component of what we do. This issue celebrates the continued research success that our faculty and students have achieved this year. We highlight a number of research programs including Dr. Saija Kontulainen's work on bone strength in children with type 1 diabetes, supported by a $1.3 million dollar grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. Also in this issue is work led by Dr. Nancy Gyurcsik looking at how physical activity can be used to manage chronic pain and the research of PhD student Matthew Chapelski who is looking at physical activity in children with congenital heart disease.

partnership between our College and the Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies at the University of Regina to create the new Physical Activity Hub initiative. The goal of the Hub is to provide a virtual space to share physical activity information between researchers, students and the community.

The Hub will be a place where the universities and the community can collaborate and generate ideas and solutions to promote and foster physical activity in our province. You can read more about it in this issue.

Finally, this last year has seen some news on the faculty front. We saw the retirement in December of long-time faculty member Mr. Doug Hillis and the hiring of our newest faculty member, Dr. Carly Priebe this past June. The College also deeply felt the loss in 2023 of two foundational faculty with the passing of Dr. Richard "Dick" Bell in January and Dr. Don Bailey in June. Both of these men were integral players in the history and development of the College and the discipline starting in the 1960s and continuing for decades. They are and will be dearly missed.

- Dr. Joel Lanovaz, Interim Dean

The College of Kinesiology continually aspires to be a champion for physical activity.

We are excited to announce a brand new

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ENGAGE WITH COMMUNITY

events for students.

Relaunced our PAAL Program for community members.

860 undergraduate students up

Over 9,000 downloads of the

USask Rec App.

USask Rec successfully launched the

8.7%

from 2022.

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School Day Camps project.

funded graduate students.

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presentations at the 2023 Research Showcase in kinesiology.

Indigenous student enrolment increased Hosted the National the North American Society for Pediatric Exercise Medicine meeting.

54 research publications

54% Open Access 89% in Top Journals 44% International Collaborations

Incorporated TRC

3%

ORANGE banners

outside of recreation and sport facilities.

Facilitated the

$2.5M

Over research grants from national, provincial and industry sources awarded to kinesiology faculty.

4 seasons of reconciliation

program for staff, faculty, and students in the college.

2022-2023 COLLEGE OF KINESIOLOGY

YEAR IN REVIEW

Last year we made significant progress towards achieving the goals of our five-year plan.

Here is how we did it.

COMMITMENT TO RECONCILIATION

SEEK DISCOVERY FOR IMPACT

3 KIN LIFE

with the U of Regina on the revitilization of In Motion with the Physical Activity Hub.

DEVELOP SCHOLARS AND LEARNERS

Successfully ran

PARTNERED

“My goal is to get there and come away with a medal,” he said. “It would mean everything to fulfil my dream of being an Olympic medalist.” - Rylan Wiens

STUDENT STORY

USask Kinesiology student dives into academics and competition ALYSSA WIEBE, COLLEGE OF KINESIOLOGY

University of Saskatchewan (USask) student Rylan Wiens can usually be found in one of two places: in the pool or in the Physical Activity Complex.

The second-year College of Kinesiology student dedicates his time to studying and training in competitive diving.

As a member of the Saskatoon Diving Club, Wiens dove into the international sports spotlight when he qualified for the Tokyo Olympics in the summer of 2020 at the age of 18. His competitive diving career began when he was just seven years old, earning his first national junior title at the age of 10.

Wiens’ latest international competition was his most successful, earning two medals for Canada in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England, this past summer. He competed in the 10-metre individual platform event, the 10m synchro competition with Nathan ZsomborMurray, and the 10m mixed synchro dive with Celina Toth.

“My goal heading into Commonwealth Games was to perform exactly like I know how. I also wanted to go into the Games and grab as many medals as I could,” said Wiens, a 20-year-old from Pike Lake, Sask.

In the men’s 10m dive preliminary round, he sat in fourth place, with a plan to save some energy for his third and final dive.

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Climbing to the top of the tower preparing for his last dive, he smiled at his coach and felt confident moving towards the edge. Wiens’ dive earned a score of 492.80 to earn his first silver medal of the Commonwealth Games.

His next contest was the men’s 10m synchro dive with teammate Zsombor-Murray. The pair combined to climb the medal podium once again, earning Wiens his second silver medal of the Games.

“I was very proud of the two silver medals I came away with, but I felt like I had the ability to dive even better, so I am left motivated and training even harder to get the gold,” he said.

Between diving competitions, Wiens is working hard in pursuit of his kinesiology degree at USask.

“Training and working towards my degree in kinesiology takes a lot of commitment as well as juggling,” he said. “I have been only taking three classes per semester to allow for me to spend 27 hours per week at the pool training.”

As the university has transitioned back to inperson learning, Wiens has enjoyed the social aspect but is finding it a little challenging managing his course-load while also travelling to compete.

“When I have time to work, I need to make sure that I make the best use of my time and put my head down,” he said.

Wiens has now set his sights on his next international event as he trains for the World Championships set for the summer of 2023 in Fukuoka, Japan. Following that competition, Wiens will focus on qualifying for his second Olympic Games in 2024.

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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

"The initial stage of the fellowship has been great so far; students are engaged with sustainability concepts and are keen to develop competencies that reach beyond the classroom."

- Shannon Forrester

Shannon Forrester named USask Sustainability Faculty Fellow A total of six Sustainability Faculty Fellows have been appointed for a two-year term including, kinesiology faculty member, Shannon Forrester.

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) prides itself on sustainability in teaching and learning (STL). As part of this goal, USask has introduced the USask Sustainability Faculty Fellows. This role was created to support faculty in designing, instructing, and assessing in ways that build student competencies for sustainability. A total of six Sustainability Faculty Fellows have been appointed for a two-year term including, kinesiology faculty member, Shannon Forrester.

Over two years, Fellows will develop practices in their own courses to help students reflect, share, and act on key competencies for sustainability and then work within their colleges to support other faculty to make an impact through open educational practices and furthering learning for sustainability.

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“The sustainability fellowship is an excellent opportunity that compliments the on-going work the college has already initiated in the area of health, wellness, and social justice,” said Forrester.

As a Lecturer in the College of Kinesiology, Shannon advocates for and promotes physical activity to enhance the full spectrum of health and wellness, whether that be physical, social, mental, or even environmental. She encourages students to identify the personal role they will play as Kinesiologists in enhancing the health and wellness of their personal self, their communities, and the planet.

Together with Shannon and the Gwenna Moss Centre for Teaching and Learning (GMCTL), we will be bringing information about what sustainability looks like in a classroom and how we can build sustainability into our courses in Kinesiology over the next two years.

This initiative is led out of the Provost’s office with Fellows receiving support from the GMCTL.

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TEACHING SPOTLIGHT

Kinesiology's Priebe wins

2023 USask Teaching Award Nineteen University of Saskatchewan (USask) faculty and staff members from colleges, schools, and units across campus were honoured with USask teaching awards in Spring 2023.

This includes recipients in the following categories: Provost’s College Award for Outstanding Teaching, Provost’s Outstanding Teacher Award, Provost’s New Teacher Award, Provost’s Graduate Student Teacher Award, Provost’s Support of Teaching and Learning Award, Sylvia Wallace Sessional Lecturer Award, and Distinguished Graduate Mentor Award.

“Congratulations to colleagues, from across the USask community, who are being recognized with 2023 teaching awards,” said Dr. Airini (PhD), USask’s provost and vicepresident academic.

“Thank you for the vitally important work you do to support USask’s teaching and learning mission. Our University Plan 2025 includes the bold ambition to be a university that sets the standard for learning. You inspire us all through your innovation in teaching and learning, and through everything you do to foster USask learners who have the passion, respect, and creativity to be leaders today and into the future.”

Carly has recently been hired as a lecturer in the College of Kinesiology.

Provost’s College Award for Outstanding Teaching Dr. Carly Priebe (PhD), sessional lecturer, College of Kinesiology “I am most inspired when students get excited about learning. Before exams we’ll often play review games (e.g., baseball with ‘single,’ ‘double,’ ‘triple,’ and ‘home run’ questions). I will pause and ask students if they want more questions and it’s great to see their enthusiasm for more review. I feel the same inspiration when a student responds to feedback on an assignment and shows improvement throughout the term. I have a heart and passion for mentorship. Seeing a student put their learning throughout the term together with a well-executed final presentation or exam is the most encouraging experience.”

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Alumni Spotlight

with Brad Meier (BScPE’91, BEd’92) Final whistle: USask alum looks back at lengthy career as an NHL referee

ALUMNI STORY UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS

USask alumnus Brad Meier (BScPE’91, BEd’92) recently retired as a National Hockey League referee after a 20-year career. We talk to him about his memories: G&W: Where was your first game? Your memories?

Carolina at Pittsburgh on Oct 29, 1999. I was awestruck at the start of the game but settled in. It was exciting for several reasons. I had my wife Colleen as well as my parents, Ron and Karen, at the game. It was also a unique experience for me because Mario Lemieux was playing for Pittsburgh, as well as a fellow Saskatonian, Curtis Leschyshyn for Carolina.

G&W: Where was your final game? Your memories?

My final game was Arizona at Calgary on April 16, 2022. This was one of the best days of my career. I was able to select my final game and crew. I also had close to 50 family and friends attend from Calgary, Saskatoon, British Columbia and a longtime friend/fellow official, Brent Reiber, surprised me travelling all the way from his home in Switzerland.

G&W: Best arena dressing room for a referee, and why?

One thing COVID did for the NHL officials was improve all of the dressing rooms. Many of our smaller dressing rooms prior to COVID were moved to larger rooms in arenas to maintain social distancing. As a result, the rooms were more consistent. Over my career the rooms got better every year in terms of what was provided for us.

We went from a cooler with water and an energy bar for each official when I began to rooms with fully stocked refrigerators, pre- and post-game meals and anything else that we may have required with a dedicated room attendant assigned to the room.

The hot dogs in Montreal were legendary!

G&W: Best players you shared the ice with?

So many. From the early part of my career, I would say Mario Lemieux, Joe Sakic, and Nick Lidstrom were all great players AND very respectful people. Then players like Jaromir Jagr, Anze Kopitar and Jarome Iginla. Present day players would be Sidney Crosby, Connor McDavid, and Alexander Barkov, as they are amazing players and quality people.

G&W: Did you ever make a call that you regretted?

Too many to remember. One that stands out was when I blew my whistle too early when I thought the goalie had covered the puck. This happens unfortunately to all officials. In my case it was in a playoff game in San Jose.

As a result, San Jose did not tie the game and ended up losing and were eliminated from the playoffs.

G&W: What city had the best spot to go after a game?

New York City had so many. My favourite was a place called Foley’s (unfortunately closed due to COVID). It was a sports pub in Midtown that had an unbelievable amount of memorabilia from all sports worldwide. Any professional athlete or official that went into Foley’s were asked to sign a baseball which was then put in a display case on the wall. The amount of memorabilia was mind-boggling.

G&W: Most memorable game you ever officiated?

I have three: My first NHL game in Pittsburgh, my first Stanley Cup Finals game in 2017 and the gold medal game in 2014 in Sochi, Russia.

Photo: Jean-Baptiste Benavent

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Photography: Gord Waldner

COLLEGE STORY

Friend of the College Award goes to

DR. MICHAEL P.J. KENNEDY AND WILLIAM (BILL) SEYMOUR

The first Friend of the College Award was presented in 1982.

Dr. Kennedy’s, who goes by P.J., passion for USask runs deep as he found a love for the game of hockey as a teenager while developing an appreciation for literature. Quickly becoming a trailblazer for the sport and teaching a course at USask called, “Reading Culture: Hockey in Canadian Literature”, P.J. became a man to know on campus. It became a popular course, that led him to teaching to full classrooms, two to three times per year.

This award is presented annually to recognize an individual, group of individuals or an organization that has made a noteworthy contribution to advance the College of Kinesiology such as; • Impacted students or participants in the program, • Increased engagement of alumni, friends or donors, • Improved the curriculum or program offering, • Provided support to the program • And/or acted as an advocate for the College and its programs.

Having never played organized hockey and barely being able to skate, P.J.’s accomplishments for the sport are impressive.

When walking the arena concourse of the new Merlis Belsher Place complex, you will find the History of Rutherford Rink, written by P.J., and in true supporter form, he was the second person to purchase season tickets at the new arena, only behind the namesake himself, Merlis Belsher.

This year, the college is excited to present the award to Dr. Michael P.J. Kennedy and William (Bill) Seymour.

Many of us may recognize both Dr. Kennedy and Mr. Seymour as they are best friends, mutually loyal to the University of Saskatchewan(USask) and Huskie Athletics. As supporters of the institution, both men have been foundational builders for Huskie Athletics.

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Retiring in 2017, P.J. continues to be a long-time Huskie hockey fan and a supporter of the Huskie hockey programs. He has been involved with Huskie Athletics in various capacities including: the Huskies Wall of Fame adjudication, statistician, writing news articles, ·

College of Kinesiology

the University Cup hockey championships, and currently chairs the award recognition committee for the Huskie Hockey Off the Leash Luncheon.

His love of research, the game of hockey, and Huskie pride was displayed through everything he did. He was the Project Coordinator for two editions of Dogs on Ice, a book dedicated to the history of hockey at USask. One of the main reasons Bill volunteered for this role was because of his best friend, P.J. Kennedy and the fact that the profits from the sale of the book, were donated back to Huskie Athletics to provide student scholarships.

These days, you can find P.J. walking the halls of Huskie Athletics, stopping and chatting to anyone with an open door. His sound wisdom, guidance, and his knowledge of what has and is happening within Huskie Athletics, makes him a true friend of the college. His days with Huskie Athletics started off as an assistant coach under the legendary Dave Kingwhen the Huskies won their first national championship in 1983. Bill went on to become the team’s head coach and then assumed the role of Acting Athletic Director from 2006 – 2008.

As a long time donor to the institution, Bill generously gives to Huskie hockey, women’s basketball and volleyball, the Huskie Football Foundation, and a notable contribution to the USask Home Ice Campaign.

In 2006, Bill played a significant role in hosting the Vanier Cup in Saskatoon, the first ever held in Western Canada. In this leadership transition period for Huskie Athletics, Bill brought a steady approach and a collaborative spirit that ensured the success of the program.

Following this role, Bill volunteered countless hours as a convenor in Canada West.

In 2012, Bill won the Kinsmen Sportsman of the Year award. This recognition went beyond Huskie Athletics and into the countless hours he spent volunteering with minor sports programs throughout Saskatoon.

As two dedicated friends, supporters, and trailblazers for Huskie Athletics, it is fitting that we acknowledge, honour, and award the 2022 Friend of the College award to both P.J. and Bill.

Bill was a key volunteer for five University Cup National Hockey Championships hosted in Saskatoon between 1998 – 2014.

HUSKIES SCORE GOLD WITH TEAM CANADA AT FISU WORLD UNIVERSITY WINTER GAMES SCOTT LARSON · CBC NEWS Camryn Drever (left) and Isabella Pozzi (right) show off their gold medals from the FISU World University Winter Games. (Rich Abney/Huskie Athletics).

The pair of Huskie women's hockey players came home with gold medals from the FISU World University Winter Games.

Defenceman and College of Kinesiology fourth-year student, Isabella Pozzi and goaltender Camryn Drever from the University of Saskatchewan squad were part of Team Canada that downed Japan 5-0 in the gold medal game in Lake Placid, New York.

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In Memory of

Dr. Richard "Dick" Bell and Dr. Don Bailey The College of Kinesiology loses two memorable and renowned faculty members.

Dr. Bell was a beloved faculty member in the School/College of Physical Education and College of Kinesiology for over 30 years starting in 1968. Even though Dr. Bell retired in 1999, he is still remembered fondly by many and had significant contributions to both the College and to the health and wellness of the city and province.

Dr. Bell cherished teaching and the energy that his students brought to the classroom, not to mention the highly popular golf and skiing activity classes that he introduced into the curriculum. He loved mentoring his students and always made time for them. His students in turn twice voted to award him the USSU Teaching Excellence Award.

Don was a valued and foundational faculty member of the College of Kinesiology from 1959 to 1994, when he transitioned to an Emeritus Professor and was still actively working until recently. Don was described by colleagues as a self-effacing, humble man, with a great sense of fun and determination.

As a University of Saskatchewan faculty member and researcher, Don was a visionary leader in the areas of physical activity, fitness, bone health and longitudinal investigations of human growth.

Don was also a great teacher and mentor, with two of his doctoral students going on to become Deans of the College. Today, Don’s legacy lives on as he continues to inspire the next generation of bone and health development researchers.

During his long and distinguished career, Don was always a trailblazer of both science and technology.

Amongst many of Don’s achievements, four ground-breaking, world-renown projects stand out as having a major impact on health: The Saskatchewan Growth and Development Study, ParticipACTION, the Lifestyle Inventory Fitness Evaluation and the Bone Mineral Accrual Study.

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We invite all members of our community to join us in celebrating Don’s legacy at future Don Bailey Lecture series events.

The Don Bailey Lecture Series is 100% donor funded and we thank our donors for your support .

KINESIOLOGY STUDENTS WIN MAJOR CANADA WEST AND USPORT AWARDS Two wrestlers, SueAnne Harms, a kinesiology student from Saskatoon, SK won Women’s Wrestler of the Year for Canada West while student from Warman, SK, Drake Buechler won the Canada West Men’s Community Service Award. Jake Neufeld, a track and field athlete for the Huskie's won the Canada West Community Service Award

Athletic Council, volunteering to raise money for Jim Pattison's Children's Hospital, delivering food hampers with the Dream Brokers program, and teaching gym classes with Huskie Homeroom. Outside of this, he somehow still finds time to deliver toys and food to families in need over the holidays.

Women's Wrestler of the Year: SueAnne Harms

Canada West and USPORT Community Service Aware: Jake Neufeld

SueAnne Harms won gold in the 53-kilogram class with decisive victories, standing out among her peers.

University of Saskatchewan Huskies track and field athlete received the U Sports student-athlete community service award after capturing the Canada West award.

Men's Student-Athlete Award Winner: Drake Buechler

Neufeld, a Saskatoon Holy Cross graduate, is a fourtime Huskie Athletics all-academic first team member and two-time U Sports Academic All-Canadian.

Drake Buechler earned silver in the 61-kilogram category at this year's CW Championships, while posting accomplishments outside the athletic arena that are just as impressive. Buechler maintained an 84% academic average last year while helping the younger generation achieve their goals and learn life lessons. He coaches

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COLLEGE STORY

Andres and Alras earn major kinesiology grad awards Each year at the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) Spring Convocation ceremony, the College of Kinesiology recognizes its Most Outstanding Graduate and Dean’s Medal Recipient.

“My biggest influence is my mother. I watched her raise my sister and I as a single mother since we were kids. She has always been selfless, caring, compassionate, and dedicated,” he said. “She sacrificed a lot to help me succeed. I hope to use her example as a reminder of how to live and treat others as I pursue a career in medicine.”

During his time spent in the college, Andres was involved in the PAAL program and SWITCH, was a student-athlete with the Huskie Athletics wrestling team, and a captain of his Campus Rec basketball team. As an undergraduate student, Andres was able to showcase his academics and leadership through research experiences. As an honour’s student under the supervision of Mr. Bart Arnold, he led an independent research project on “Promoting Positive Eye Health Behaviours Among University Students.” In addition, he held an undergraduate research position working in Dr. Hassan Vatanparast’s Nutritional Epidemiology Lab.

This year, the college is proud to award the Most Outstanding Graduate to Alexander (Alex) Andres and the Dean’s Medal to Abd Alras.

The most outstanding graduate recipient must demonstrate leadership and participation within the college, on campus, and in their community, with academic performance also taken into consideration. Making a difference on campus, in his college, and in the community, has earned Alexander Andres the honour for 2023.

“I was a researcher on the project, “Working together to promote healthy living and prevent type 2 diabetes: a community-led initiative with Cowessess First Nation." Using my skills in Kinesiology, I worked in an interdisciplinary team to research and develop community-based programs and initiates to improve life for individuals living in Cowessess First Nation.”

“Being named the Most Outstanding Graduate of 2023 is a tremendous honour. There are many well deserving and highly successful graduates. I applaud all my peers for their hard work and achievements. I hope to continue to represent the mission and values of the College of the Kinesiology,” said Andres.

Outside of the college, Andres dedicated his time to co-founding the Al Amal Humanitarian Club. The club provides students with the opportunity to volunteer on campus and in the community with initiatives that support the United Nations Sustainability Development goals. Andres planned events such as food drives, winter care packages for the homeless, a dental care workshop for elementary schools, and a mental health and an Indigenous health awareness event on campus.

Andres was born in Vancouver, BC but has lived in Saskatoon for the past 18 years. He chose to pursue a degree in Kinesiology because he was interested in learning about living a healthy and active lifestyle and enjoyed coaching and being involved in sports.

His upbringing was nothing short of challenging. His father is a Vietnamese refugee, and his mother raised him as a single parent while facing family health issues. Alex has battled adversity his entire life but attributes his success to his mother.

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“Overall, my time spent in the College of Kinesiology has been rewarding and encouraging. We are all here to learn, grow, and succeed, and the college recognizes this. It provides opportunities for success and challenge. It also offers supports to keep you on the right path. The growth I made in academics, maturity, self-learning, and self-care are attributed to the fine faculty and peers of the College of Kinesiology.”

Next fall, Andres will be pursuing a degree in the College of Medicine at USask with the hopes of one day working as a physician to help patients through some of the toughest times of their lives.

If he could tell incoming freshman one thing it would be, “get involved and experience all you can on campus. Try joining a club, volunteering, researching, or even starting your own organization.

You will never regret the experiences you had as much as the experiences you didn’t have.”

The second kinesiology award presented at Spring Convocation is the Dean’s Medal, awarded to the graduating student with the highest grade-point average. The recipient of the 2023 Dean’s Medal is Abd Alras. Abd demonstrated sustained academic success, having had the highest academic average in his cohort throughout his time with the College. Abd attributes his success to God and the resources and opportunities afforded to him that others may not have had.

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“Being the recipient of such a prestigious award is a deeply humbling honor that surpasses words. It reminds me that I did not achieve this alone, it is by the countless gifts from God, who blessed me with a family to support me, financial means, and a strong community to push me forward,” said Alras.

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When exploring degree options, Alras chose kinesiology because it offers multiple benefits. From providing a strong foundation for professional schools to offering engaging courses taught by exceptional professors, he strongly felt it equips students with valuable knowledge and skills.

“The faculty team is dedicated and supportive, creating an environment where learning becomes enjoyable. In short, pursuing a degree in kinesiology is a fulfilling and exciting journey filled with endless opportunities for growth and success.”

Not only was Alras successful in his academics, but he also found ways to be involved on campus and in his community. He was a co-founder and president of the award-winning U of S Amal Humanitarian Club, a second-year representative and vice-president of the College of Kinesiology Student Society, a PAAL volunteer, an Orange You Ready? participant, a mentor and leader of weekly learning community, a member of the Islamic Relief Canada program, an active member of the Muslim Student Association, and a volunteer at the Saskatoon Dawah Center.

“Throughout my journey, I encountered students who significantly surpass me academically, in work ethics, discipline, and talent. Many of my peers faced adversity in ways that I cannot begin to imagine.

I am blessed by God, family support, and the financial means to lift the weight of employment during my studies, allowing me to solely focus on my academics,” said Alras. “I am very honoured to be receiving this award knowing there were many qualified candidates.”

After he walks the stage in June and has his degree in hand, Alras is looking forward to continuing his studies in medicine at the University of Regina in the fall.

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USask well represented at Women’s Football Championships ALYSSA WIEBE

Over 10 graduates from the University of Saskatchewan were in Vantaa, Finland from July 28th to August 8th, 2022 representing Team Canada at the 2022 World Women’s Football Championship.

Team Canada competed at the tournament along with defending champions Team USA, as well as teams from Finland, Mexico, Australia, and Great Britain.

The first event was held in 2010, in Stockholm, Sweden, with six countries competing. The United States took home the gold while not letting any team they played score. The second event was held in 2013, with Vantaa, Finland, hosting the games. The United States swept the competitors again, winning the gold medal. The third event was played in 2017 with Canada as the host nation.

The U.S. took the gold medal for the third time, again beating the host nation Canada in the final.

Team Canada is composed of 43 players and 15 coaches from across the nation and many players are representing Canada for the first time. Claire Dore represented Team Canada on the field in the past two world championships as a wide receiver, but this year took to the sidelines as the receiver coach.

“To return as a coach after playing is incredibly meaningful,” said Dore (BSKI’02, BEd’02). “It's special to be able to share the football experience at such an elite level and to be surrounded by athletes that you know share your passion and competitiveness. Having lived the experience creates a unique bond.” After coming out strong and beating Team Australia 33-6 to kick off their championship run, they would find themselves facing a tough Team Great Britain in the semi-finals. Holding a lead through much of the game, Great Britain would score a last-minute touchdown to advance to the championship game to face Team USA. Canada would compete for a bronze medal against the hometown country, Finland.

With 5:44 left to play, Canada regained the lead with a touchdown to Saskatoon native, Ricki Obed. A few plays later, Canada fell into penalty trouble that would allow the Finns to kick a last-minute field goal to lock up the bronze medal on home turf. Canada would cap off the tournament with a fourth-place finish.

Although a disappointing ending for the second-seeded Canadian team, the week was one to remember for the coaches and players.

“Tackle Football in a tournament format is about the toughest things I've ever seen. The team worked exceptionally hard to come together, and to do the right things both on and off the field,” said Dore (BSKI’02, BEd’02).

Kinesiology and USask connections: •

Pat Barry (BSPE’93, BEd’94)

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Marci Halseth (BEd’11)

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Cody Halseth (Assistant Coach, Huskie Football)

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Beth Thompson (BSKI'10, BEd'11, MEd'19)

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Claire Dore (BSKI’02, BEd’02)

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Alyssa Funk (BSAg’17)

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Emmarae Dale (BSKI’20)

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Reed Thorstad (BEd’21, BA’18)

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Sarah Wright (BA’21)

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Haley Girolami (BSN’20)

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Ashley Viklund (BA’10)

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Betsy Mawdsley (MPT’17)

After a scoreless first quarter, Canada would get on the scoreboard first on a 1-yard touchdown run by Saskatoon native, Sarah Wright. Team Finland would battle back to take a 16-10 lead heading into the final quarter.

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USask connections include Marci Halseth, Cody Halseth, Claire Dore, Alyssa Funk, Emmarae Dale, Reed Thorstad, Sarah Wright, Haley Girolami, Ashley Viklund, Betsy Mawdsley, Pat Barry, and Beth Thompson. (photo submitted)

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Michelle Duchene (BSKI'99) wins Sask Sport Volunteer Dedication Award SASK SPORT

For the first time since 2019, supporters from Saskatchewan and across Canada gathered in person to celebrate the finalists and recipients of the 2022 Saskatchewan Sport Awards on Jan. 26 in Saskatoon.

The annual program celebrates the success and dedication of those in the province’s amateur sport community through two categories – Excellence Awards and Recognition Awards. The Excellence Awards celebrate outstanding event performances or a series of performances by a Saskatchewan athlete, coach or team within a given calendar year, while the Recognition Awards include the Volunteer and Coach Dedication Awards, as well as the Inspire Through Sport Award, all which honour individuals who have devoted their time and effort to the growth of sport in Saskatchewan.

women’s tackle football program in Saskatchewan. In 2011, thanks in large part to the dedication of Michelle, the Western Women’s Canadian Football League was born. Michelle co-founded the Saskatoon Valkyries and has continued to work with them since 2011.

Michelle Duchene (BSKI'99) was awarded with the Sask Sport Volunteer Dedication Award.

She also established the Rush girls’ flag football league in Saskatoon in 2014 and is now heading the creation of a girls tackle football team in Saskatoon to join the Prairie Girls Football League. While doing all of that, Michelle has managed touch and flag football teams for 23 years and served as a flag coach for the past 18 seasons.

After first getting involved in football as a volunteer trainer with the University of Saskatchewan Huskies in 1997, Michelle Duchene(BSKI'99) has given back countless hours to the sport.

In 2010, a trip to the world championship as a trainer with the national women’s tackle football team sparked her interest in creating a

Outside of football, Michelle volunteers in minor hockey, sits on various councils and boards and always gives her time during major events happening in Saskatoon.

Michelle was nominated by the Saskatoon Valkyries and supported by Football Saskatchewan.

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"THIS AWARD SHOWS THAT WHEN YOU PUT TOGETHER A GREAT GROUP OF HARD WORKING PEOPLE, AMAZING THINGS CAN HAPPEN AND THAT THE WORK WE ARE DOING IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR FEMALE FOOTBALL PLAYERS IN SASKATCHEWAN." - MICHELLE DUCHENE (BSKI'99) KINNECTION 2023

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COLLEGE RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT

Supporting the health of ‘little hearts’ with physical literacy: U of S research BROOKE KLEIBOER heart do not develop properly before birth. Treatment options for the condition vary. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, a common symptom experienced by children with CHD is fatigue during exercise or physical activity.

Young Innovators: "Educators must build up a child’s competence and confidence with simpler tasks before progressing to more challenging tasks.”

“Our research team is interested in the effect physical activity has on mental, bone, muscle and heart health of children with CHD,” said Chapelski, who is pursuing his PhD through the U of S College of Kinesiology. “My personal interest is focused on the development of physical literacy through physical activity opportunities.”

Building physical activity into life at a young age can be crucial to continuing this healthy habit into adulthood.

For children with congenital heart disease, the process of performing safe and effective physical activity can be a more complex process.

Chapelski said developing physical literacy can be thought of as similar to the processes of learning to write or to do math.

University of Saskatchewan (U of S) PhD student Matthew Chapelski is part of a research team investigating how physical activity can benefit children with congenital heart disease, by integrating it into their everyday lifestyle.

“For example, when you are learning to write, you first learn the alphabet, then how to spell words, then you learn grammar,” he said.

“Likewise, when we are learning to be physically literate, we first learn to walk, then how to skate, then how to shoot a puck. For all forms of literacy, educators must build up a child’s competence and confidence with simpler tasks before progressing to more challenging tasks.”

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a condition that children are born with, and occurs when the chambers, walls or valves of the

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To design an effective physical activity program that could be used by children with CHD, Chapelski’s research team collaborated directly with children’s caregivers to design a six-month plan built to meet their children’s specific needs. The children then participate in the program regularly, and health outcomes are evaluated before and after their involvement.

The Children’s Healthy-Heart Activity Monitoring Program in Saskatchewan (CHAMPS) and Chapelski’s research project are supervised

by U of S Associate Professor Dr. Marta Erlandson (PhD).

“I am inspired by continued learning, collaboration, and knowledge translation,” he said. “I love learning new things and finding new ways to improve the health and well-being of others.”

The project is supported by funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, the Saskatchewan Centre for Patient-Orientated Research and the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation.

Chapelski said the CHAMPS program includes a workout designed to build children’s confidence in being active, alongside teaching the benefits of performing safe physical activity.

“We are providing children with CHD the tools, such as the competence and confidence to be active, and giving them autonomy over their longterm health,” Chapelski said.

Besides learning about and building healthy physical activity habits, the CHAMPS program provides a platform for children with CHD to share a special experience together and build relationships with other children who have similar health concerns, outside of the program as well.

“Although we are working with children with CHD, the development of physical literacy is essential for everyone’s long-term engagement in physical activity,” Chapelski said.

“The most interesting part of my project is the community aspect. Similar to the lasting relationships the children have made with each other, I have made lasting relationships with the families involved in the CHAMPS program.”

The last wave of participants will complete the six-month physical activity program in 2024. The research team will then explore further opportunities and barriers to physical literacy for children with CHD. Chapelski hopes to present his research results in 2024, and then plans to pursue a post-doctoral fellowship focused on furthering research on physical literacy after completing his PhD.

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COLLEGE STORY

Creating opportunities through physical activity with Indigenous youth

In late 2022, the College of Kinesiology welcomed over 20 students and 10 chaperones from Montreal Lake Cree Nation and Little Red Cree Nation for a wellness retreat.

The students had the opportunity to meet USask student-athletes, participate in an in-depth presentation from five Indigenous USask student-athletes, tour the Merlis Belsher Place facility, meet both men and women hockey players, and attend multiple U-Sport games.

On top of the tour of our recreation and athletic facilities, students also toured the Gordon Oaks Red Bear Student Centre and participated in physical activity and wellness programming that was facilitated in the main Physical Activity Centre gymnasiums.

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“This is a community-based research project that has been cocreated alongside community and is first and foremost focused on knowledge that will be translated back into the community,” said Dr. Schaefer, an associate professor in the College of Kinesiology. “Our hope is that down the road these opportunities shape the youth’s

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imagined ideas of attending university and being engaged in meaningful movement opportunities”

Schaefer also noted that the connection to Huskie Athletics was important to help foster opportunities for Indigenous youth from Northern Indigenous communities to spend time on campus alongside Huskie athletes and engage in Huskie Athletic events.

The weekend was a part of a research project titled “mitho wiskawiwin Together Partnership (Moving Well Together Partnership – MWTP)” and is a direct response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action. It is grounded in Nehiyaw notions of kistīthītamowin: respect and honour, and mamawīchihitowin: sharing and valuing working together.

A student-athlete provides details on what it means to be a university athlete and student.

The overall goal is specifically focused on addressing understanding and removing barriers to positive movement opportunities in sports and physical activity for Indigenous youth, specifically girls.

"The trip was my first time on a university campus, so it was cool to walk around and see how close everything is," said one student.

Another added that a highlight of the trip was hearing studentathletes share their stories and being able to relate to them and their lives growing up.

This project is ongoing and conducted by Dr. Lee Schaefer, USask (PI), Dr. Sean Lessard, UAlberta (co-PI), Dr. Leah Ferguson, USask (co-ap), Dr. Kate Storey, UAlberta (co-ap), Brian Torrence, EverActive schools (co-ap) and Lisa Hunter, Monash University, (co-ap).

The research and programming are being done in partnership with Montreal Lake Cree Nation, Little Red Cree Nation, USask Athletics, EverActive Schools, University of Saskatchewan and the University of Alberta.

Students attended and acknowledged at a Huskie Men's Volleyball game.

“The hope was that the trip brought joy, and enhanced wellness opportunities, but ultimately that the high school students can begin to imagine themselves as a part of the USask community,” said Dr. Schaefer.

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STUDENT & ALUMNI STORY

Hom, Moskaluke, win Junior Men’s Provincials ALYSSA WIEBE

Kinesiology’s Michael Hom and Roger Moskaluke (BSPE'91) traveled to RouynNoranda, Quebec, for the 2023 New Holland Canadian Junior Men’s and Women’s Curling Championships.

As a part of Team Ede, the pair won the Junior Men’s Provincials in Swift Current on January 22, earning them the chance to represent Saskatchewan at Nationals.

Hom, a second-year kinesiology student from Regina, SK has been curling for 10 years. He has competed in several championships in the past few years but looks forward to attending this year’s Nationals.

“I look forward to going is seeing all the people that I met at the previous Nationals held in Oakville, ON as well as meeting new people. Talking to them on and off the ice is a cool experience because you get to learn about their own journey to Nationals and some unique stories they share.”

After finishing third in the round robin games, they would face an uphill battle in the playoffs as an underdog. They earned a semifinal birth after defeating Team Zuravloff, 9-1, and would squeak through to the championship game to face a talented Team Bryden, who they lost to in round robin play.

Coming out hot and playing a full game, Team Ede would come out as winners in the championship game 10-5. The win was Hom’s second green jacket at only 19 years old while their coach, Moskaluke earns his first green jacket in almost 30 years.

“The green jacket means the world to me, it validates all the hours on and off the ice I have put into developing myself as a coach and with that my ability to help young athletes be the best they can be,” said Moskaluke(BSPE'91), head coach and current facilities manager in the Physical Activity Complex. “I shed lots of happy tears after we had won, and the smile still comes easy when I realize what we accomplished.

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The team traveled to Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, on March 25-April 2, 2023 and following the competition, the winners will represent Canada at the World Junior Curling Championships in 2024, in the Kisakallio Sports Institute in Lohja, Finland.

“I am looking forward to the challenge of preparing the guys each and every day to be at their best,” said Moskaluke. “I will no doubt learn a lot about myself, and I know I am going to soak everything in and have some fun along the way too.”

“It would mean the world to me if we won Nationals. The group of guys that I play with are the most fun I have had on a curling team. We trust each other and we know what to say if they have a good day or bad day,” said Hom. “Being able to play at a World's event is a dream of mine that I really want to accomplish one day, especially with this group. We have worked hard to make sure we got to represent Saskatchewan after losing the Provincial final in 2021 and the provincial semi-final in 2022. It would be a dream come true to represent Canada.”

The excitement is high for Team Ede as they are set to compete against the best junior mens curling teams across Canada.

Team Ede consists of; Lead, Austin Krupski Second, Michael Hom Third, Brayden Grindheim Fourth, Logan Ede Coach, Roger Moskaluke

To compete in the medal rounds, Team Ede would need to finish top three in their pool at Nationals.

Coach, Gerry Adamthat

CARY PRIMEAU (BSPE’95) AWARDED QUEEN ELIZABETH II PLATINUM JUBILEE MEDAL ALYSSA WIEBE The Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal (Saskatchewan) was created to celebrate the 70th anniversary year of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Accession to the Throne, which began on February 6, 2022.

The medal is a tangible way for the province of Saskatchewan to honour Her late Majesty for her service to Canada. A total of 7,000 medals will be awarded to deserving citizens.

“I think the most important part of the work we’ve done over the years allows so many others to participate in the activities and sports they love. In many cases we’ve been able to break down the barriers that prevent young people from accessing quality programming and to benefit from sport and recreation.”

Cary Primeau received the honor and medal on August 14, 2023, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan with four other recipients. His Honour the Honourable Russ Mirasty presented the medal at the Corps of Commissionaires North Saskatchewan Division office.

Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II approved the design of the medal in May 2022, which includes a circular medal, struck in copper and plated with nickel, and suspended from a ribbon using a new arrangement of the blue, red and white colours found on the other four medals issued during Her Majesty’s reign in 1953, 1977, 2002 and 2012. The blue represents Canada’s three seas, with the red and white being the national colours of Canada as taken from the National Flag and Royal Arms of Canada. The white is also a representation of platinum, and the medal commemorates the Platinum Jubilee.

“I am humbled to be presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal. I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many great people in the organizations I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of,” said Primeau, current Campus Recreation Coordinator at the University of Saskatchewan.

Primeau was nominated as a result of his long-standing involvement in minor sports and service to organizations to help others are able to participate, such as Campus Recreation at USask, Saskatoon Minor Hockey Association, Kinsmen Inner City Hockey League, volunteer organizations such as KidSport, Canadian Tire Jumpstart and most recently for volunteer board member with the Corps of Commissionaires North Saskatchewan Division.

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USask-led research project receives more than $1.3 million to study bone strength development in children with diabetes MATT OLSON FOR RESEARCH PROFILE AND IMPACT

University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers have received more than $1.3 million for an unprecedented multiyear study of the development of bone structure, density and strength in children with Type 1 diabetes.

“Our hypothesis is that the bone growth in children with Type 1 diabetes differs, but we need to know how it differs, when it differs,” Kontulainen said.

The goal of this project, she said, is to answer those key questions, important for prevention of bone fragility life-long. Findings will guide the development of therapies or treatments to optimize bone growth.

Kontulainen lauded the nation-wide team of specialists working on the project, and said she was excited to continue the tradition of former USask scholars working in this field before her.

Titled the “Canadian Bone Strength Development in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Study,” the five-year project was awarded $1,352,140 by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Project Grant program.

“This is building on the legacy of world-renowned longitudinal bone studies that were carried out at the University of Saskatchewan,” she said.

The team, co-led by Dr. Saija Kontulainen (PhD) with the College of Kinesiology and Dr. Munier Nour (MD) with the College of Medicine, will take the helm of a project supported by researchers at facilities across Canada.

The project is raising the bar when it comes to the scale of this kind of research, and Kontulainen said the implications of their work would stretch far beyond Canada’s borders.

“I like the team effort. It’s great we have a USask-led national team,” Kontulainen said. “We want to use this opportunity to place Canada in a leading position to study and advance bone health in children with diabetes.”

“It’s unique, and it will bring globally important information,” she said.

“We will know how the bones are changing … This is the collaborative way we should do research.”life faded around 20 years old, a new passion emerged.

The project will compare bone development of preteen-aged children with and without Type 1 diabetes over the course of four years. Using a technique called high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT), as well as other scanners used to diagnose bone diseases like osteoporosis, Kontulainen and her team will attempt to map the bone development of children during the time of their growth spurt when rapid skeletal development occurs.

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A new partnership initiative to get Saskatchewan moving

SASKATOON – Canada is facing an inactivity crisis. Daily physical activity is on the decline and preventable illness is on the rise. That’s why the University of Saskatchewan (USask) and the University of Regina (U of R) are combining forces to launch a new province-wide physical activity pilot initiative called the Physical Activity Hub.

such as a web-based resource library, workshops, research projects, and new community initiatives that will roll out over the next few months.

“Universities are a tremendous resource to our Saskatchewan communities,” says Dr. Joel Lanovaz, Dean of Kinesiology at the University of Saskatchewan. “We are excited for the opportunity the Physical Activity Hub provides to build closer relationships between members of our faculties and community leaders. This will be an important step forward to increase physical activity and health in our province.”

The Physical Activity Hub is an in motion legacy initiative. From 2003 – 2021 Saskatchewan in motion was a mainstay in physical activity promotion in Saskatchewan and a model program for the country.

On March 31, 2021, Saskatchewan in motion closed their provincial operations.

The Physical Activity Hub will be a virtual space designed to bring researchers and students together with front line leaders to learn, share information, and inspire innovative solutions to get Saskatchewan people moving.

“Supported by in motion, schools, communities and organizations have done tremendous work to increase physical activity in our province,” says Dr Louise Humbert, past President of Saskatchewan in motion. “We are pleased that the Physical Activity Hub will build on the legacy left by the in motion program, by providing access to tools, resources, research and expertise to support and enhance continued community action.”

“Saturday, June 3rd is National Health and Fitness Day, a Public Health Agency of Canada initiative to challenge Canadians to become the fittest nation on earth by getting out and getting active, which makes this an ideal time to announce the Physical Activity Hub,” says Dr. Harold Riemer, Dean of Kinesiology and Health Studies at the University of Regina.

A formal launch of the Physical Activity Hub will occur in fall 2023, in the interim, the Universities invite anyone interested in taking action to increase physical activity in Saskatchewan to join the Physical Activity Hub on social media channels and stay up to date on activities

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COLLEGE STORY

Active Living for Pain: Promoting an

One in five people in Saskatchewan experiences chronic pain. A physical activity and pain management initiative aims to meet their needs.

Regular physical activity can be a powerful tool for managing chronic pain. Yet, pain can also make it challenging to maintain an active lifestyle. To address this problem, a team of experts has come together to create Active Living for Pain, an initiative offering evidence-based physical activity programming tailored to adults living with chronic pain.

Active Lifestyle to Help Manage Chronic Pain

The research team is led by Dr. Nancy Gyurcsik, a professor in the College of Kinesiology at USask, and Dr. Susan Tupper, a licensed physical therapist and Manager of Professional Practice, Pain Strategy & Research with the Saskatchewan Health Authority. The team also includes other health researchers from USask, Brock University, and the Colorado School of Public Health as well as people with lived experiences of chronic pain, exercise providers, and the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association.

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“This diversity in voices is fantastic. It allows us to co-design and test unique strategies to best support what Saskatchewan adults living

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with chronic pain have told us they need to start and maintain a physically active lifestyle.” said Gyurcsik.

Jennifer Pond is a person with lived experience on the team. “I see movement as medicine and an empowering tool that not only helps you to manage your pain but eventually, reduce it,” said Pond.

Chronic pain education for exercise providers Over the years, the team has made important strides by working closely with exercise providers, health care professionals, and adults living with chronic pain. Consulting with these stakeholders identified a gap in pain-specific physical activity supports and a need for professional training for exercise providers in this area.

As a result, the team co-designed with their community partners a 3-hour workshop to educate providers and help them instruct their clients on pain education and physical activity participation skills. The workshop was found to increase their knowledge and confidence as instructors. The team then worked with the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association to have the training offered for continuing education credits for Saskatchewan-certified exercise providers. Identifying a need for support and participation skills Through continued consultations with stakeholders, the team identified an additional need for a more supportive approach to physical activity programming, one that equips adults with the pain education and knowledge of skills needed to regularly participate in physical activity. These participation skills include the setting of appropriate activity goals, overcoming barriers to physical activity more effectively, modifying activity according to their pain level, and using pain management techniques such as pacing, relaxation, and mindfulness.

Next step: Co-designing a support program for active living for pain At the present time, no support program exists that provides pain education and strategies to learn to use physical activity participation skills. To make this type of support program a reality, the research team, with funding from the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation, is currently inviting adults living with chronic pain to collaborate with them in co-designing a support program that meets their needs. The research team will then evaluate the support program’s feasibility and impact. Don Ratcliffe-Smith, a Saskatchewan-based physical activity consultant, will lead the codesign meetings for the research team.

“Saskatchewan adults living with chronic pain told us that for them to be active at a leisure center or local gym, instructors and personal trainers need to be knowledgeable about chronic pain and teach them effective participation skills to empower them to be and stay active,” said Gyurcsik.

“Being active isn’t as simple as ‘just do it’. Rather, it requires education on how to be active depending on one’s pain levels as well as the use of skills that many people are unaware of as being key to long-term participation,” said Gyurcsik.

“An essential part of this research process has been hearing the voices of those living with chronic pain. From the very beginning, it was acknowledged that the real experts were those that experience chronic pain in their daily lives. Through numerous focus groups and future co-design meetings, the research and subsequent program has been evolving to meet the needs expressed by those living with chronic pain in Saskatchewan,” said Ratcliffe-Smith.

Ultimately, the support program will be offered alongside a physical activity program led by trained exercise providers and it will be possible to evaluate if the support program helps individuals be more active over time.

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RECREATION REDISCOVERED USask Rec offers recreation opportunities to the on-campus community and general public.

As a student and member you get access to:

Fitness Centre · Fitness classes · Two swimming pools Climbing wall · Triple gymnasium · Squash and racquetball courts 210 m indoor track · Intramurals · and so much more!

For more information or to sign up, please visit rec.usask.ca or visit us in the Physical Activity Complex!