Applied Major Project
Emma Davidson
RECR 4400
March 23, 2025

1

Executive Summary

This research examines the answer to the research question: how have rising
costs of living affected youth participation in sports in Williams Lake, and what additional
strategies can non-profit organizations implement to support families seeking access to
sports? Through understanding the decline in youth sports participation, with a focus on
financial accessibility, cultural shifts, and rising costs, this paper will provide
recommendations for Williams Lake nonprofit organizations to continue offering
sustainable support to families in the community. Interviews with representatives from
BGC, Minor Hockey, Kidsport, and the Williams Lake Skating Club revealed that
participation in organized team sports has decreased, particularly in hockey, where
divisions now have fewer teams than before COVID-19. Secondary research confirms
increasing costs for registration, equipment, and operational expenses could be
contributing to the decline. Kidsport representatives noted a decrease in grant
applications but an increase in the total amount of funding requested, indicating
financial strain on families.
A key finding is the lack of awareness and accessibility of financial aid programs,
such as Kidsport, Jumpstart, and Indigenous band funding. Many families either do not
know they qualify or are hesitant to apply. While the Williams Lake Skating Club has
maintained participation levels, more families are delaying fee payments, suggesting
affordability concerns. The cost of equipment is another major barrier, with informal
initiatives like Facebook-based exchanges helping, but a structured, community-driven
program could further increase accessibility and awareness.
Facility observations highlighted the absence of advertising for financial aid
programs in local arenas, limiting outreach efforts. Additionally, a cultural shift toward
family recreation instead of competitive team sports has influenced participation trends.
To address these challenges, the research suggests increasing awareness of funding
options, expanding equipment-sharing programs, and advocating for greater financial
support from not just other local organizations, but provincial and national sources.

2

Strengthening these efforts can help make youth sports more inclusive and financially
sustainable for families.

Introduction
The purpose of this paper is to answer the research question: How have rising
costs of living affected youth participation in sports in Williams Lake, and what additional
strategies can non-profit organizations implement to support families seeking access to
sports? The research intends to explore the impact of increased living costs on youth
sports participation in Williams Lake. The research examines financial and social
barriers families face and investigates how these challenges affect accessibility to
sports activities. By analyzing existing research, community data, and community
member perspectives, the study identifies important trends and areas where support is
needed in rural communities like Williams Lake. These findings will lead to
recommendations for local non-profits, helping them develop strategies to enhance
affordability and inclusivity in youth sports programs.
To ensure clarity in this research paper, several key terms must be
operationalized so that readers can accurately interpret the findings. The first term is
‘youth’. Since different organizations define youth using varying age ranges, this paper
adopts KidSport’s definition of individuals 18 years old and under (KidSport, 2022). In
this context, ‘youth’ refers to individuals 18 and under who participate in sports. The
term ‘child’ may also be used interchangeably with ‘youth’ throughout the paper.
The second term requiring clarification is ‘family’ or ‘families’. For the purpose of
this research, a family is defined as a unit consisting of at least one adult and one child,
but it may also include multiple children, two adults and a child, or other caregiving
arrangements. ‘Family’ is not restricted to biological parents; it may include
grandparents, extended relatives, or non-biological guardians, such as foster
caregivers. Defining this term is essential for understanding how rising costs of living
impact family structures and their ability to support youth participation in sports.
3

The third term, ‘non-profit organization’, must be clearly defined to establish the
role and objectives of organizations such as KidSport, which aim to assist communities.
In this research, non-profit organizations are those that provide services to support
families in need without the intent of generating profit. According to the Cambridge
Dictionary (2025), a non-profit organization is “not intended to make a profit, but to
make money for a social or political purpose or to provide a service that people need.”
This definition is crucial, as the recommendations in this study are directed toward nonprofits to help them improve affordability and accessibility in youth sports programs.
The final term to be operationalized is ‘participation’. Without clarification, this
term may lead to misinterpretations. For example, when discussing “families
participating in youth sports”, some readers may assume that all family members are
actively engaged in the sport itself. However, in this paper, ‘participation’ encompasses
a broader scope, including the involvement of family members in supporting youth
engagement, such as transporting a child to hockey practice. While the youth is the one
physically participating in the sport, their family plays an essential role in facilitating their
participation.
Background/Context
There is limited research on recreation and sport participation in rural
communities like Williams Lake, making this study particularly relevant. Williams Lake is
a small city in the Interior of British Columbia with a population of just over 10,000
residents, including an estimated 2,300 youth (Townfolio, 2022). One of the key nonprofit organizations supporting youth sports participation in the community is KidSport.
KidSport’s vision is to create “a Canada where all children have the opportunity to
participate in sport” (KidSport, 2025). Its mission is to provide financial assistance to
children for sport registration fees and equipment costs, emphasizing the role of sport in
fostering social, mental, and physical well-being. By increasing access to quality sport
programs, KidSport aims to strengthen communities across Canada (KidSport, 2025).

4

In Williams Lake, KidSport plays a vital role in ensuring that financial barriers do
not prevent youth from engaging in sports. The local chapter is led by Rick Miller, who
has served as chairperson since 2017 (Interview, 2025). The researcher became
involved with the Williams Lake KidSport chapter in 2020 and has since observed the
increasing demand for financial assistance. This demand grew significantly when
Jumpstart, another financial assistance program, ceased having local representation
and as organized sports resumed following the COVID-19 pandemic.
To support the mission and vision of KidSport, this research project will analyze
interviews, community data, and observations to develop recommendations for KidSport
and other non-profits seeking to enhance accessibility to youth sports. Given the
researcher’s four years of involvement with KidSport, there is an inherent bias toward
viewing non-profits as a primary solution to addressing financial barriers in youth sports.
However, to ensure a comprehensive analysis, this study also acknowledges the
importance of exploring alternative avenues of support beyond non-profit organizations.
Recognizing and mitigating this bias is essential to producing balanced and objective
findings.
Literature Review
Extensive research has demonstrated the benefits of youth participation in
sports, including physical health, mental well-being, social development, and academic
performance. These benefits extend beyond the sport, as skills learned through these
sports often transfer to other aspects of a young person’s life (Hempill, et al. 2019) such
as teamwork and work ethics. Studies, like from Dobrin, D. (2014), indicate that financial
challenges are a significant barrier to participation, with low-income families being
disproportionately affected. For example, research done by Fortune & Oncescu (2024)
and A. J. Brinkley (2024) highlights the role of community recreation organizations in
fostering inclusion for low-income families and youth who may be excluded in schools or
community sport programs and these organizations' struggles being able to afford to

5

support these families through fee subsidy programs. Additionally, studies by Kroshus
et al. (2021) and Murata & Côté (2023) explore the impact of families’ socioeconomic
status and their likelihood and willingness to have their children participate in organized
sports and activities. Families who struggle to make ends meet are more likely to
struggle to afford registration fees, equipment, transportation, and the other costs that
are associated with organized sports.
Organizations such as Kidsport conduct annual impact statements of their effects
on the communities they operate in and include report testimonials from families who
state they would not have been able to register their children in sports without financial
assistance (KidSport, 2023). These studies collectively reinforce the argument that
financial constraints are a significant barrier to youth participation in sports and that
community and nonprofit programs play a vital role in mitigating these challenges.
Programs like Kidsport who provide direct financial support to cover some of the costs
of registration fees, BGC who provides equipment support, and the Foundry who
provides support to families who wish to complete the Kidsport application all provide a
wrap-around support to the families in their communities.
Areas of Controversy
While the importance of financial support programs is widely acknowledged as
discussed in Weigandt, K. (2022), there is ongoing debate regarding the most effective
methods of implementation. Some researchers, such as Alam & Abdurraheem (2023),
argue that fee subsidies are the most practical solution, allowing families to directly
access support when needed. Others, such as Brinkley (2024), advocate for broader
systemic changes, such as increased government funding for sports and recreation
programs or the development of community-driven initiatives, including partnerships
with schools to expand access. While fee subsidies and equipment support programs
exist, BGC has observed a decline in the number of youth accessing their resources,
suggesting that financial aid alone is not enough (Godin, 2025). The organization
highlighted logistical barriers such as transportation issues, safety concerns, and the
requirement for youth to physically come into their building for support. These
6

challenges reinforce the argument made by Brinkley (2024) that structural changes,
including improved transportation solutions or partnerships with schools and community
centers, may be necessary to enhance accessibility.
Another area of controversy is the tension between focusing on organized and
competitive youth sports like Minor hockey and figure skating versus youth recreation
activities like community recreation events and general fundamental sports classes, with
the funding available. Some literature suggests that financial barriers primarily impact
competitive sports, where registration fees, equipment, and travel expenses are
significant (Weigandt, K., 2022). However, other studies, such as Harrington, et al
(2017) argue that even recreational sports programs are becoming less accessible due
to rising program costs, limiting opportunities for families who cannot afford enrollment
fees.
Gaps in Literature
Despite the increasing body of research on accessible recreation, gaps remain in
understanding the specific link between rising living costs and youth sports participation.
While studies have explored sports affordability and broader economic changes
separately, limited research directly connects these factors—aside from Piątkowska &
Biernat (2023) and Robert Walker et al. (2023), who examined the impact of the
COVID-19 pandemic on the industry, without specifically discussing cost of living.
Additionally, while national and provincial data on sports accessibility exist from
nonprofits like KidSport (2023), these studies are impact assessments rather than
academic research. Despite their valuable insights into community outcomes, there
remains a gap in region-specific academic studies focusing on Williams Lake and
similar rural communities, where accessing resources can be more challenging.
Another gap in literature would be around the possible positive effects of
nonprofits updating their policies regularly because there seems to be no relevant
research on whether or not updates and re-evaluating policies benefit the organization

7

and the communities they serve. Although there are suggestions from the government
on how to run a nonprofit (Government of Canada, 2025), there is no legal requirement
to update policies. Similarly, there’s a gap in literature around whether the overall
nonprofit organizations’ policies consider the difference in need between a rural
community or an urban community. For example, Kidsport is a National program that
services rural communities like Williams Lake and large cities like Vancouver, all having
to follow the same policies for operating and supporting their communities.
Summary of Literature
Overwhelmingly, in most of the research in this review, the literature included
evidence of the importance of participation in sports and recreation activities by youth
and for their development. It also emphasized how a family's socioeconomic status
affects their participation in youth sports, for example, in Tahiraj, E. et al (2024). Most
researchers noted the positive effect of work done to remove barriers and increase
access to these sports and recreation opportunities. Importantly, addressing financial
barriers proved to be a common theme across much of the research.
Evaluation of Sources
The sources referenced in this review include scholarly articles, professional
field-based resources, and statistical databases. Many of the scholarly sources, such as
those published in Leisure Studies, British Journal of Educational Psychology, and
Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, provide peer-reviewed evidence on financial
barriers in youth sports and the benefits of sports for youth. Additionally, statistical
reports from BC Stats (2025) offer valuable economic context to the effects of cost of
living on British Columbians as well as changes over time but don’t include statistics
related to economics and sports or recreation specifically. All sources are equally
invaluable to nonprofit organizations like Kidsport, and other community recreation
organizations, to provide research-based evidence on the importance of their services.

8

Topic relating to Community Recreation
This review is extremely relevant to community recreation, as it explores how
economic challenges influence youth participation in local sports programs. Given that
non-profit organizations play a crucial role in delivering accessible recreation,
understanding these economic barriers can produce more effective program design and
funding allocation. By examining community-level strategies, this research can
contribute to policy discussions and practical interventions that enhance youth access to
sports as the industry grows and changes. Non-profit’s being able to adapt their policies
quickly will allow them to be responsive to these industry changes and community
needs.
Methodology
The primary research plan utilized three key methods: interviews, content analysis, and
observations. Interviews were conducted with representatives from local sports
organizations and nonprofits to gather diverse perspectives on the experiences of
families regarding youth sports participation in Williams Lake. This triangulated
approach was chosen to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the factors
influencing participation in youth sport. The researcher encountered challenges in
obtaining in-depth responses from interviewees. Although the interview questions were
designed to elicit detailed insights, the initial three interviews did not provide the
expected depth of information. Nonetheless, these interviews were valuable in offering
perspectives on the operational challenges faced by local organizations and the broader
community context.
Four interviews were conducted with the following people:
1. Derek Godin - BGC Williams Lake
2. Tanis Rosa - Williams Lake Minor Hockey Association
3. Marissa Bruneau - Williams Lake Skating Club

9

4. Rick Miller - Williams Lake Kidsport
Derek Godin’s interview was completed over Messenger video chat on March 1st, 2025.
His interview was recorded but the recording did not save on the researcher’s device so
notes were taken in the immediate minutes following the interview to ensure accurate
transcriptions. Being the representative for another youth organization in Williams Lake,
the interview questions were tailored to the services BGC offers youth (Appendix A).
Tanis Rosa’s interview was completed over Facetime on March 1st, 2025. Her interview
was successfully recorded by a voice memo on an iPhone. Tanis is the representative
for Minor Hockey, which is a sport that Williams Lake Kidsport heavily supports. It was
important to have a perspective from the organization that works closely with Kidsport
and the interview questions were tailored to gain perspective from a youth sports
organization in the community.
Marissa Bruneau’s interview was completed over Messenger video chat on March 2nd,
2025. Her interview was successfully recorded by a voice memo on an iPhone. Similarly
to Minor Hockey, Marissa’s interview questions were written from a perspective of a
youth sports organization that receives support from Kidsport. Marissa and Tanis’s
interview questions were the same (appendix B).
Rick Miller’s interview was completed over Facetime on March 2nd, 2025. His interview
was successfully recorded by a voice memo on an iPhone. The interview questions
were tailored specifically to describe the experience of Kidsport and how they’re able to
support the community (appendix C).
The second method of primary research conducted was content analysis,
focusing on public documents from the Williams Lake Minor Hockey Association and
KidSport BC. The purpose of the content analysis was to examine the financial records
of youth sports organizations over multiple years to identify trends in participation
numbers and any fluctuations in fees. This method was essential to understanding the

10

financial landscape of youth sports in Williams Lake. However, challenges arose during
the analysis due to inconsistencies in the public financial documents. The records
available were not uniform from year to year, and no additional years of financial data
were made public. As a result, the researcher was unable to compare financial trends
across multiple years and instead analyzed the available documents as separate data
points. Another challenge encountered was the researcher’s limited accounting
knowledge, which hindered the ability to fully interpret the financial details within the
documents.
The two pieces of content from Minor Hockey were:
1. 2020 - 2021 Financial Statement
2. 2022 - 2023 Financial Statement
In addition to analyzing the financial content from the Williams Lake Minor
Hockey Association, the research also included an analysis of impact statements from
KidSport BC over several years. The goal was to compare the number of youth
supported and the amount of grant funding provided to youth across the province.
Similar to the challenges encountered with the Minor Hockey documents, the KidSport
impact statements presented difficulties. The public documents available were limited to
only two years, and the titles of these documents varied, raising questions about
whether the content being analyzed was consistent across the years. This discrepancy
limited the ability to make direct comparisons between the data sets.
The two pieces of content from Kidsport were:
3. 2023 Annual Report
4. 2022 Impact Statement
The final method of primary research was observation. A significant challenge in
this aspect was that the researcher was unable to conduct observations in Williams
Lake and instead had to focus on a different community. Additionally, identifying a
relevant observation to align with the research question proved difficult. The researcher

11

selected the Nanaimo Minor Hockey Association schedule for observation, as the times
and locations of practices were publicly available online (Nanaimo Minor Hockey
Association, 2025). However, the inability to directly observe activities in Williams Lake
limited the scope and relevance of this data to the research context.
The following practices were observed:
1. U11 Division B practiced on the Cliff McNabb arena from 6:30 - 7:45 pm on
Friday March 7, 2025,
2. U13 Tier 1 practiced on the Frank Crane arena from 5:00 - 6:15 pm on Thursday
March 6, 2025
3. U15 Tier 1 practiced on the Frank Crane arena from 6:30 - 7:45 pm on Thursday
March 6, 2025.
During these practices, the researcher made several key observations. These
included the types of equipment the children were using, the presence of
advertisements for funding support within the arena, the number of parents staying at
the practice, any noticeable differences in transportation among families, paid
advertisements on the rink boards, and whether the jerseys worn by the players
displayed any sponsors. These observations provided insight into the community’s
support for youth sports and the financial implications of participation.
Findings and analysis
Primary Research Findings: Interviews
During the interview with the Minor Hockey representative, several key findings
emerged regarding the impact of financial barriers on youth sports participation in
Williams Lake. One significant observation was the decline in participation since the
COVID-19 pandemic, with Minor Hockey’s team divisions shrinking from 6 to 3-4 teams
per age group. The interviewee attributed this decline to the restrictions during the
pandemic, where children were only allowed to practice and not play games, which
diminished the enjoyment and appeal of the sport. This interview also highlighted the
12

role of funding organizations such as Kidsport, Jumpstart, and Indigenous bands in
helping to cover the cost of fees for players. However, a major barrier noted was the
lack of advertising for these funding opportunities, which prevents some families from
realizing that financial assistance is available. As the interviewee shared, “Some people
assume they make too much money but actually don’t and could qualify.” This reflects a
common misconception about eligibility for financial assistance programs. Furthermore,
she noted that Minor Hockey has set aside leftover funds from previous seasons to
assist families with funding in the following year. However, she emphasized the need for
better advertising about these resources, as many families are unaware of the
assistance available. The idea of providing help discreetly was also discussed, as some
families may be reluctant to ask for support due to pride. To address this, she proposed
having an equipment exchange program, which would allow families to share or recycle
gear, reducing the financial burden. The representative also initiated a Facebook page
called “Buy, Sell, or Give Away,” where parents can source affordable or donated gear,
which Tanis believes would encourage more families to register their children for sports.
These findings point to the critical need for increased visibility of financial assistance
programs and community-driven solutions, such as gear exchanges, to support lowincome families in accessing sports opportunities.
The interview with the BGC representative provided insight into how another
nonprofit organization supports local youth in Williams lake. The Williams Lake BGC
provides financial support for local youth by assisting with registration fees and
supplying equipment to those who do not have access to their own. Despite these
efforts, the organization has seen a decline in the number of youth accessing its
resources in recent years. One of the primary challenges BGC faces in supporting youth
is ensuring they physically come into the building to receive assistance, which can be a
barrier for some families. The rising cost of living has had a significant impact on youth
participation in sports and recreational activities. Many families are struggling financially,
living paycheck to paycheck, and simply cannot afford to enroll their children in sports
programs. Additional barriers include transportation challenges, road conditions, and
safety concerns for youth who may need to travel into town on their own. To address
issues of affordability and accessibility, BGC sees strong potential in forming
13

partnerships with other nonprofit organizations such as Denisiqi Services Society and
Foundry. Additionally, working closely with the city's recreation center to run joint
programs could help expand access to sports and recreation opportunities for local
youth. Despite the challenges, collaboration among community organizations remains a
key strategy for ensuring youth have the opportunity to participate in sports.
The interview with the Skating Club representative provided insight into the
current state of youth sports participation and the role of financial assistance within the
Williams Lake Skating Club. The interviewee, who has served as an assistant coach for
two years, observed that while the number of participants in the skating club has not
declined, there has been an increase in families paying fees later than usual, often a
couple of months after the due date. This delay in fee payments may indicate financial
strain on families but also highlights a trend of families still finding ways to prioritize
sports participation despite financial challenges. She emphasized the importance of
Kidsport as a significant supporter for families in the Skating Club, noting that Kidsport
helps many families overcome financial barriers to participation. In addition, the club has
worked to keep fees “as cost-effective as possible” and also engages in fundraisers to
support their operations. Despite these efforts, the interviewee pointed out that the
operational structure of the club has remained relatively consistent, which suggests that
the financial strategies in place have been somewhat effective in maintaining
participation levels. In terms of resources, she mentioned that helmet rentals are
available in the community, helping families who may not be able to afford to purchase
equipment. Furthermore, the cost of ice rentals is cheaper during school hours for user
groups than outside of school hours, which benefits organizations like the Skating Club
when booking ice time. The interviewee also highlighted the club's collaboration with
Kidsport, stating that they “collaborate with Kidsport quite a bit,” emphasizing the
importance of partnerships with funding organizations to ensure accessibility. The
Skating Club also provides shared equipment, such as figure skating dresses, skate
bags, and skate guards. These items are mostly donated, but the club sometimes
purchases them as needed. She also shared that the consignment approach for figure
skating dresses, where members can exchange or borrow dresses, significantly
reduces the financial burden on families. This strategy is similar to other community14

based solutions, like those used in Minor Hockey, where equipment sharing is crucial
for making sports more accessible. Her insights underscore the importance of
community collaboration and shared resources in keeping sports accessible for lowincome families. These efforts, combined with funding support from organizations like
Kidsport, play a significant role in helping families participate in youth sports, even when
financial barriers exist.
The interview with the Kidsport representative revealed significant insights into
the financial landscape of youth sports participation in Williams Lake, particularly in
relation to KidsportBC funding. The interviewee, who has been closely involved in
distributing Kidsport grants, observed a notable decline in the number of children
participating in organized sports, particularly in more competitive activities like hockey
and gymnastics. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the funding allocated was 12-15k per
year, but now the budget has increased to 20k per year, with grant amounts rising from
$250 to $300 per family. Despite the increase in budget, he noted that the number of
applications has decreased from roughly 120 to 90, suggesting that fewer families are
applying for support, which may indicate a decline in overall participation in competitive
youth sports. The interviewee attributed this decline to a shift in youth interests, with
children becoming more involved in family activities and opting for recreational rather
than competitive sports. Specifically, the high costs associated with gymnastics and
hockey, including both registration and equipment, have made these sports less
accessible for many families. This concern about cost aligns with the findings from other
interviews, where families cited financial barriers as a primary obstacle to participation.
The interviewee’s perspective mirrors this, noting that while the dollar value of grants
has increased, the actual number of applicants has not, suggesting that even with the
increase in funding, financial barriers continue to impact families’ decisions to enroll
their children in organized sports. He also highlighted a structural limitation for Kidsport,
as the organization is constrained by Sport BC guidelines and insurance policies, which
limit the types of sports they can support. This limitation, coupled with the challenges of
securing sustainable funding sources in a small town, further exacerbates the financial
struggles of youth sports organizations. He pointed out that long-term solutions must
involve increased support from provincial and national governments to ensure
15

sustainability. Additionally, he suggested that sports clubs themselves should
collaborate with organizations like Kidsport to maintain a reciprocal funding system,
though he acknowledged the constraints on sports clubs as volunteer-run organizations.
His insights illustrate a recurring theme in the research: while financial support is crucial
for youth sports participation, the costs of participation and the shifting preferences of
youth away from competitive sports to more recreational activities are creating new
challenges for community organizations. These findings underscore the importance of
adapting funding strategies to accommodate the evolving needs of families and the
community, while also calling for more governmental support to address the financial
barriers to sports participation.
Primary Research Findings: Content Analysis
The first two pieces of content analyzed were the 2020-2021 and 2022-2023
financial records from the Minor Hockey Association. The 2020-2021 Balance Sheet
revealed that the highest participation rates were seen in the U13 and U15age divisions,
while the female-only divisions had the lowest participation, as indicated by the amount
of revenue generated from registration fees. The balance sheet also highlighted
operational costs, including office supplies and payroll, which are essential for the
organization’s day-to-day functions. It is important to consider these costs, especially in
the context of external price increases such as inflation or rising utility costs. If these
costs rise over time, it may be necessary to increase registration fees to cover the
additional expenses.
Similarly, the 2022-2023 Profit and Loss Statement identified new expenses,
such as gaming licenses and referee fees. Referee fees, in particular, could be
influenced by changes in the cost of living, and if referees demand higher pay to match
inflation, these increased expenses would need to be accounted for. Consequently, to
maintain financial stability, registration fees might need to be raised to absorb these
additional costs. This underscores the interconnectedness between rising operational
costs and the subsequent financial burden placed on families through increased fees, a

16

theme that was reflected in other primary research findings regarding the impact of
rising costs on sports participation.
The next two pieces of content analyzed were the Kidsport Impact Statements,
specifically the 2022 Impact Report and the 2023 Annual Report. The 2022 Impact
Report provided detailed information about the organization’s achievements for the
year, including BC-wide impact, general statistics and demographics of the youth
supported, the communities with active Kidsport chapters, and the top-funded sports in
that year, among other key data. The 2023 Annual Report presented similar information,
making it possible to draw comparisons between the two years.
A significant finding from the comparison was that over 2,300 additional youth
were supported in 2023 compared to 2022, illustrating the increasing demand for
financial assistance in youth sports. The total grants awarded also saw a notable
increase, with over $242,000 in 2022 and over $373,000 in 2023, a substantial rise that
underscores the growing financial need for families seeking assistance. This data
reflects an upward trend in both the number of youth supported and the amount of
funding required, highlighting the increasing financial barriers faced by families and the
expanding role that organizations like Kidsport play in addressing these challenges.
Primary Research Findings: Observations
The observations that were noted about the players on the ice are indicated in the table
below:

Age Group
U11

Equipment
● All wearing

Parents Attending
● 12 players on

Transportation
● No players

helmets with

the ice, 8 adults

were noted to

cages

in the stands or

have left the

lobby

building

● All wearing the
same uniform -

without an

17

no differences in

adult

quality noted

accompanying

● Jerseys were not

them.

branded with a
sponsorship logo

U13

● All wearing

● 16 players on

● No players

helmets with

the ice, 11

were noted to

cages

adults in the

have left the

stands or lobby

building

● All wearing the
same uniform but

without an

with different

adult

pinnie colours

accompanying

and were not all

them

uniform
● Jerseys were not
branded with a
sponsorship logo
U15

● All wearing

● 18 players on

helmets with

the ice, 1 adult

met in the

cages

in the stands or

parking lot at

lobby

the end of

● Not all jerseys

● Players were

were the same,

practice, only 1

there were a

player left the

mixture of

building with

different colours

an adult

● Jerseys were not
branded with a

accompanying
them

sponsorship logo

18

Facility Observations:
● Rink Board Advertising: Both Cliff McNabb and Frank Crane arenas featured a
significant amount of rink board advertising, primarily from general businesses,
including radio shows, GlobalNews, and political entities. However, no
advertisements were seen from nonprofit organizations like BGC or Kidsport at
either facility.
● Lobby Posters: In the public lobby areas of both facilities, no advertisements
were displayed for funding support for shared equipment programs, which could
potentially increase awareness of resources available for families in need.
These observations highlight the lack of visible support from nonprofit organizations and
funding assistance programs in the arenas and public spaces, pointing to a possible
missed opportunity in raising awareness about available resources for families facing
financial barriers. Additionally, the presence of limited parental attendance and
transportation observations suggests areas where family support may be a factor in
sports participation.

Analysis - Primary and Secondary research

The primary and secondary research indicates that the cost of living has
negatively impacted youth participation in organized sports. In the interview with the
Kidsport representative, Rick Miller (2025) noted a shift in how families approach
recreation, prioritizing general recreational activities as a family rather than enrolling
children in structured youth sports. This trend aligns with Weigandt (2022), who
discusses how rising registration fees, equipment costs, and other financial barriers
have pushed families toward more cost-effective recreational options they can do
together. This shift was further supported by insights from Minor Hockey. Tanis Rosa
(2025) noted a decline in the number of teams per division, stating that where there
used to be six teams, there are now only three or four in each age group. Similarly,
19

Miller (2025) reflected on his past experience as a referee, recalling how he used to see
many different jersey colors on the ice, whereas now there are fewer teams competing
in each division. These observations confirm a decline in participation across multiple
sources, reinforcing the connection between financial barriers and decreased
involvement in organized youth sports. Beyond participation numbers, the accessibility
of financial support programs also emerged as a barrier. The Minor Hockey
representative noted that there is a lack of awareness about available funding sources,
which means some families who could qualify for assistance may not be applying
(Rosa, 2025). This was evident in the content analysis of the arena facilities, where no
visible advertisements for Kidsport or other financial aid programs were present in the
public spaces or on rink boards. This supports the notion that funding accessibility is not
just about financial availability but also about effective communication and outreach to
families in need. Overall, both primary and secondary research confirm that financial
barriers and changing recreational priorities are key factors influencing youth sports
participation. While funding programs exist, their impact is limited if families are
unaware of them or hesitant to apply. This suggests that improving awareness,
outreach, and accessibility of funding opportunities could be an essential strategy in
mitigating the decline in youth sports enrollment.
This aligns with findings from the literature review, which highlights that feepayment programs provide direct financial support to families seeking to participate in
organized sports (Alam & Abdurraheem, 2023). Kidsport follows this model, and content
analysis of its impact statement and annual review confirms its significant role in
supporting local families (Kidsport, 2023). However, the financial need for these
programs is increasing, as evidenced by the Kidsport representative's interview (Miller,
2025). Miller noted that while total funds distributed in Williams Lake have increased,
the number of individual grants awarded has decreased. This suggests that registration
fees and other costs have risen, requiring families to apply for larger amounts of
financial aid. This aligns with the observed decline in participation in minor hockey and
the financial constraints noted in secondary research, further reinforcing that
affordability is a growing barrier to youth sports involvement.

20

Another key finding from both primary and secondary research is the lack of
awareness and accessibility of financial assistance programs for youth sports. The
interview with the Minor Hockey representative revealed that many families are unaware
of funding opportunities such as Kidsport and Jumpstart, and some hesitate to apply
due to stigma or the assumption that they do not qualify (Rosa, 2025). Similarly, the
Kidsport representative emphasized the need for better outreach and promotion of
these programs to ensure more families can access support (Miller, 2025). This aligns
with findings from the literature review, which states that barriers to participation are not
solely financial but also include a lack of information on available resources (Weigandt,
2022). Furthermore, content analysis of arena advertisements and facility notice boards
showed a complete absence of promotions for funding programs, reinforcing the idea
that financial aid is not being effectively marketed within the community. Addressing this
gap through better communication strategies and partnerships with local organizations
could improve access and increase participation in youth sports.
Another significant finding from both primary and secondary research is the role
that equipment accessibility plays in youth sports participation. The interview with the
Minor Hockey representative highlighted that many families struggle with the cost of
hockey gear, and while some informal initiatives, such as a Facebook “buy, sell, or give
away” page, exist, there is no structured equipment exchange program in place (Rosa,
2025). Similarly, the Williams Lake Skating Club representative noted that their club has
a lending system for figure skating gear, which helps families reduce costs and makes
the sport more accessible (Marissa, 2025). This finding aligns with existing research
that identifies equipment costs as a major barrier to participation in organized sports
(Alam & Abdurraheem, 2023). The content analysis of facility observations further
supports this, as there were no advertisements promoting equipment-sharing programs
at the arenas, despite their potential to lower costs for families.

21

Recommendations
1. Kidsport, and other nonprofits who provide support, should continue to be
accessible to the community and work with the local sports organizations to
include Kidsport information directly on applications to ensure each family is
aware of the opportunities for funding support.
2. A representative from Kidsport should attend local youth network meetings to
ensure the other nonprofits are aware of the services provided and can provide
support to the families that Kidsport cannot. Kidsport could share applications
that were denied at these meetings. The “Communities That Care Network” is the
first table Kidsport should work with because this network includes all major
organizations in Williams Lake who support families.
3. Kidsport should follow up with the sports organizations that fall under SportBC to
create a formal agreement to increase their registration fees by $2 per registrant
for a donation to Kidsport each season to remain a sustainable organization
4. Volunteers should create a network with other local nonprofits like BGC, Denisiqi,
school district and Three Corners Health Society to share challenges the
organizations are facing when supporting families. For example, if a family was
denied access to Kidsport funding, these applications can be brought to the
meeting to determine how the other organizations can provide them support.
5. Using Williams Lake Skating Club’s shared equipment model, Minor Hockey
should create the same opportunity for families with hockey equipment.
6. The Provincial Kidsport committee should continue to lobby the provincial and
National government for financial support in their fundraising campaigns.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decline in youth sports participation is a multifaceted issue
influenced by financial barriers, changing cultural attitudes, and the lasting impact of
COVID-19. Interviews with representatives from Minor Hockey, Kidsport, and the
Williams Lake Skating Club highlighted a clear decrease in organized team sports
participation, particularly in hockey, where divisions have seen a reduction in the
22

number of teams. While fewer families are applying for financial aid through Kidsport,
the total funding requested has increased, demonstrating the rising costs of registration
and equipment. Additionally, some families are opting for more casual recreational
activities over structured competitive sports, further contributing to the shift in
participation trends.
Financial accessibility remains a critical challenge, with many families unaware of
available funding options or hesitant to apply due to perceived income limitations. The
need for better promotion of financial aid programs, such as Kidsport, Jumpstart, and
Indigenous band support, was emphasized in multiple interviews. Furthermore, the
Williams Lake Skating Club's experience of families delaying fee payments suggests
that even for those who do participate, affordability remains a concern. Kidsport’s
increasing grant distribution highlights the growing financial need among families, but
limitations in funding sources and eligibility restrictions create additional barriers to
support.
The high cost of sports equipment is another significant obstacle, particularly in
hockey and figure skating. While some informal equipment exchange initiatives exist,
such as the Facebook “Buy, Sell, or Give Away” page, there is no widely accessible,
structured program to support families in acquiring gear affordably. The skating club's
model of lending equipment demonstrates a viable approach that could be expanded
across other sports to improve accessibility. Moreover, facility observations revealed a
lack of advertising for financial aid and equipment-sharing programs, indicating a
missed opportunity to increase awareness among families who might benefit from these
resources.
Overall, the findings underscore the need for proactive solutions to address
financial and accessibility barriers in youth sports. Strategies such as improving
communication about funding options, creating structured equipment exchange
programs, and advocating for additional financial support at the provincial and national
levels could help mitigate the decline in participation. By taking a more collaborative and

23

community-focused approach, local sports organizations can work toward making youth
sports more inclusive and financially sustainable for families.

24

References:
A.J. Brinkley. (2024). Physical Activity, Sports Participation and School Exclusion: An
Analysis of the Millennium Cohort Study. British Journal of Educational
Psychology, 94(2), 571–585. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjep.12664 (List A)
Alam, M. M., & Abdurraheem, I. I. (2023). COVID-19 and the financial crisis in the
sports sector around the world. Sport in Society, 26(1), 154–167.
https://doi.org/10.1080/17430437.2021.1979964 (List A)
BC Stats. (2025, January 21). Consumer Price Index. Retrieved from Province of British
Columbia:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/data/statistics/economy/cpi/cpi_highlights.pdf
(List C)
Bruneau, M. (2025, March). Figure Skating Club Representative. (E. Davidson,
Interviewer)
Cambridge Dictionary. (2025). Non-profit. Retrieved from Cambridge Dictionary:
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/non-profit#google_vignette
Dobrin, D. (2014). Connecting Sports Participation with Household Income. NSGA
Now, 2(5), 4–5. (List B)
Fortune, M., & Oncescu, J. (2024). Community sport and recreation organizations’
inclusion of low-income families in sport and recreation in New Brunswick.
Leisure/Loisir: Journal of the Canadian Association for Leisure Studies, 48(1), 1–
24. (List A)
Government of Canada. (2023, December 19). Registered charities making grants to
non-qualified donees . Retrieved from Government of Canada:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/charities-

25

giving/charities/policies-guidance/charities-making-grants-non-qualifieddonees.html#toc6 (List D)
Harrington DW, Jarvis JW, & Manson H. (2017). Parents’ Perceived Barriers to
Accessing Sports and Recreation Facilities in Ontario, Canada: Exploring the
Relationships between Income, Neighbourhood Deprivation, and Community.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(10).
https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14101272 (List A)
Hemphill, M. A., Gordon, B., & Wright, P. M. (2019). Sports as a passport to success:
life skill integration in a positive youth development program. Physical
Education & Sport Pedagogy, 24(4), 390–401.
https://doi.org/10.1080/17408989.2019.1606901 (List A)
Kidsport. (2023). Kidsport British Columbia Annual Report 2023. Retrieved from
Kidsport : https://kidsportcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/94/2023-KidSportBC-Annual-Report1.pdf (List D)
Kidsport. (2022, March). Kidsport Grant Application Guidelines. Retrieved from Kidsport:
https://kidsportcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/156/KS-Greater-VictoriaApplication-March-2022-1.pdf (List D)
Kroshus, E., Qu, P., Chrisman, S., Herring, S., & Rivara, F. (2021). Socioeconomic
status and parent perceptions about the costs and benefits of youth sport. PLoS
ONE, 17(11), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0258885 (List A)
Miller, R. (2025, March). Kidsport Representative. (E. Davidson, Interviewer)
Murata, A., & Côté, J. (2023). Considering the cost(s) of the game: Consumer behavior
and parents in youth ice hockey. Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, 35(5),
775–792. https://doi.org/10.1080/10413200.2022.2098878 (List A)

26

Nanaimo Minor Hockey Association. (2025). U11 Competitive Division. Retrieved from
Nanaimo Minor Hockey Association: https://hockeynanaimo.com/u11/ (List D)

Piątkowska, M., & Biernat, E. (2023). Participation and Reasons for Nonparticipation in Sport and Recreational Activities Before and After the
Outbreak of COVID-19: Analysis of Data From the 2016 and 2021 Poland
National Sports Participation Survey. Physical Culture and Sport. Studies
and Research, 101(1), 63–76. https://doi.org/10.2478/pcssr-2023-0025
(List B)
Robert Walker, Ruth Salway, Danielle House, Lydia Emm-Collison, Katie Breheny, Kate
Sansum, Sarah Churchward, Joanna G Williams, Frank de Vocht, William
Hollingworth, & Russell Jago. (2023). The status of active after-school clubs
among primary school children in England (UK) after the COVD-19 lockdowns:
implications for policy and practice. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition
and Physical Activity, 20(1), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-023-01499-x
(List A)
Rosa, T. (2025, March). Minor Hockey Representative. (E. Davidson, Interviewer)

Son, H., & Berdychevsky, L. (2022). Social-Ecological Analysis of the Sport and
Recreation Programs’ Impacts on Positive Development of Youth from Socially
Vulnerable Backgrounds. Leisure Studies, 41(5), 620–636.
https://doi.org/10.1080/02614367.2022.2037151 (List A)
Tahiraj, E., Sekulic, D., & Rodek, J. (2024). Toward Equitable Sport Opportunities:
Addressing Sociodemographic Disparities in Youth Sport Engagement. Sport
Mont, 22(3), 85–91. https://doi.org/10.26773/smj.241014 (List A)
Townfolio. (2022, February). Demographics. Retrieved from Townfolio:
https://townfolio.co/bc/williams-lake/demographics

27

Weigandt, K. (2022). Using Effective Partnerships to Amplify the Impact of Park and
Recreation Offerings. Parks & Recreation, 57(6), 20–21. (List B)

28

Appendix A - BGC Interview Questions and Notes
• In what ways does Williams Lake BGC support local youth’s access to sport?
Provide support for registration fees and equipment for youth who don’t have access to
equipment.
What ways has Williams Lake BGC adapted their policies/procedures in the last
few years?
Besides covid policies, nothing has changed.
•

Have you seen an increase in youth accessing your resources in the last few
years?
There has been a decline in access to resources.
•

• What limitations do you feel BGC has in supporting local youth?
Having the kids come into the building to provide the support is the challenge.
How do you see the impact of increasing living costs on youth participation in
your programs?
Completely impacting participation. Parents are living paycheck to paycheck and can’t
afford to put their children in sports.
•

• Are there specific barriers that families face in accessing your services?
Travelling into town, road conditions, if youth are needing to travel on their own, parents
worry about their safety.
In your opinion, what are the most effective partnerships or collaborations with
other organizations that could help address the challenges of affordability and
accessibility for youth sports in Williams Lake?
Working with other non-profits like Denisiqi Services Society and Foundry as well as
running programs in partnership with the city’s rec center
•

29

Appendix B – Minor Hockey and Figure Skating Interview Questions
1. Have you noticed a decline in youth sports participation in Williams Lake over the
past few years? If so, what factors do you think contribute to this decline?
2. What financial assistance programs currently exist for families struggling to afford any
costs associated with your sports organization (e.g., KidSport, Jumpstart, local grants)?
3. How has WLMH/Figure Skating responded to the affordability crisis? Have any
programs been modified or expanded to help families?
4. What additional strategies could non-profit organizations implement to help lower
costs for families?
5. How can non-profits and local sports organizations collaborate to provide inclusive
opportunities for all youth?
6. How effective would shared equipment programs, uniform exchanges, or community

30

Appendix C – Kidsport Interview Questions
1. Have you noticed a decline in youth sports participation in Williams Lake over the
past few years? If so, what factors do you think contributes to this decline?
2. Have you seen an increase in requests for financial assistance or subsidies for
participation? Can you describe the differences over time?
3. Are there specific sports that have been more affected by rising costs compared to
others?
4. What additional strategies could non-profit organizations implement to help lower
costs for families?
5. What limitations do you feel Kidsport has to support families?
6. What ways has Kidsport adapted their policies/procedures in the last few years?
7. Can you think of any long-term solutions for ensuring youth sports remain accessible

31

Appendix D - Field Notes

32