Started in 2002, the “Bridge Through Sport” Program is a partnership between UBC First Nations House of Learning, UBC Athletics, and the Musqueam Band. Athletic and educational initiatives are jointly developed to meet the objective of using sport, educational, and social initiatives as a connection to youth in the Musqueam community.
The Bridge Through Sport Program is not just about sports, initiatives under the program include:
- The annual Musqueam/UBC Aboriginal Youth Soccer Tournament which draws approximately 300 participants from across the province.
- The Reading Club and the Math and Science Club, after school programs for youth ages 8-12 at Musqueam (September to April)
- The Musqueam Youth Program (a creative writing workshop series for ages 15-25)
- The Point Grey Homework Club for Aboriginal students in grades 8 through 12.
Goals
- To use sport as a mechanism to attract to the University First Nations youth who perhaps would not otherwise be drawn to UBC, and to make the University more accessible and attractive to Aboriginal youth and families.
- To support Musqueam Recreation’s vision of fostering leadership through sport, placing emphasis on the athletic activity not the result, and creating competition in a spirit of friendly rivalry that encourages youth to focus not on being the best they can be rather than focusing on being the best.
- To encourage Musqueam and First Nations youth to complete high school and pursue post-secondary education as a complement to other forms of learning.
- To expand the knowledge base of the University, at all levels (e.g. senior management, faculty, staff, students), to include the presence of the Musqueam community and its history.
- To provide leadership and mentoring opportunities for UBC students.
Partners
First Nations House of Learning
The First Nations House of Learning provides staff support through the position of the “Bridge Through Sport” Coordinator. This staff person’s main responsibility is to coordinate co-sponsored events and initiatives with Programs/Faculties from both the UBC Community, and the Musqueam Community. First Nations House of Learning also provides joint funding for some “Bridge Through Sport” initiatives.
Musqueam Indian Band
The Musqueam Indian Band provides staff support from various departments that work in conjunction with staff at UBC to develop, plan, coordinate, and co-host initiatives under “Bridge Through Sport”. The Musqueam Indian Band provides joint funding for initiatives. Musqueam staff inform the Musqueam community of opportunities available through “Bridge Through Sport” and also act as a contact to other First Nations communities.
UBC Athletics and Recreation
The UBC Athletics and Recreation Department’s involvement includes participation from Varsity athletes in presenting their sport to youth in the Musqueam community. Varsity athletes serve as role models for youth, as they embody both athletic and academic ability. In addition, UBC Athletics and Recreation provides connections and accessibility to UBC sport facilities and programs for “Bridge Through Sport” initiatives.
Ryanne James
Bridge Through Sport Program Coordinator
Tel: 604-827-3451
fnhl.outreach@ubc.ca
