Disappointment for young athletes in Quebec: the province has not yet announced a concrete plan this year for the return of organized sports activities in Quebec, while the silence of the Minister responsible for Sports is becoming increasingly heavy according to several environmental stakeholders.
The Coalition for the Promotion of Sport in Quebec (CPPSQ) spoke directly to Minister Charest, asking her to go public to give hope to young athletes. The group fears the harmful effects that the extension of the cessation of sports activities could cause for young people.
“Where are you, Ms. Charest when the environment is in crisis? What is the return to play plan? […] It is inconceivable to break two seasons in a row, practically three, with the early shutdown of 2020. Let [les enfants] player!” mentioned the CPSSQ in a letter.
The author and founder of the Coalition, Guylain Dupuis, does not mince words. “It is not a coquetry. It is vital. For many in Sports-Study programs, this is what hangs them up at school, ”he explained in an interview with TVA Nouvelles on Thursday.
Mr. Dupuis fears that the extension of the cessation of organized sports will lead to a wave of school dropouts.
At Sport’Aide, which assists young athletes experiencing difficulties, the observation is the same.
“For some, it will mark the end of their sporting career,” said general manager Sylvain Croteau, adding in the same breath that one in three young people give up their sport before entering high school.
Official Opposition sports critic Enrico Ciccone lambasted Minister Charest for her silence. “To see that the one who oversees all this is nowhere infringing on the role of the minister responsible for sports,” said the former hockey player.
Minister Isabelle Charest refused our interview requests. His team maintains, however, that it is working in concert with public health.