School-Based Youth Sport-for-Development Programs in Ontario: Current Practices and Future Directions

Abstract

This study examined the implementation and future directions of sport-for-development (SFD) programs within Ontario elementary schools, addressing a notable gap in the literature, which has largely focused on community or international contexts while leaving school-based SFD underexplored. Drawing on Ecological Systems Theory and Positive Youth Development (PYD), the study aimed to understand how SFD is integrated into school sport environments, the objectives guiding these initiatives, their perceived impacts, and the supports necessary to enhance program effectiveness. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including survey data from 84 participants across 43 school boards and semi-structured interviews with educators and program volunteers involved in SFD programming. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively to identify patterns in program use, while qualitative data were analyzed using reflective thematic analysis to explore experiences and perceptions of program delivery. Findings indicate that many schools engage in practices aligned with SFD principles; these efforts are often lacking formal recognition or educator training. Programs were founded to prioritize social and emotional development, including leadership, confidence, belonging, and positive peer relationships, and were perceived to positively influence overall school culture. However, inconsistencies in resources, limited professional development, and gaps in structured partnerships with external organizations presented challenges to sustainable implementation. This study contributed to the literature by providing one of the first comprehensive examinations of SFD within Canadian elementary schools, highlighting the need for intentional program design, increased educator training, and stronger coordination across schools, school boards, and community organizations. Theoretically, it extends PYD by emphasizing belonging not only as an outcome but as a critical precondition for PYD within school-based sport programs. Offering insights for both practice and future research in SFD implementation.