PROVINCE CONTINUES COMMITMENT TO ABORIGINAL SPORT

Saskatchewan has renewed its agreement with the federal government until 2009 for the Building Future Champions Program to continue efforts to increase participation in sport.  In addition, the province has entered into an agreement with the federal government to implement an Aboriginal Sport Program.

“The Building Future Champions Program has been very successful in increasing participation opportunities for Aboriginal athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers,” Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Glenn Hagel said.  “Our commitment to the new Aboriginal Sport Program will result in long-term benefits for Aboriginal children, youth, communities and Saskatchewan. Together, these programs will have lasting positive effects on communities across Saskatchewan.”

The provincial and federal government first initiated the Building Future Champions Program agreement in 2003.  The program will be managed on behalf of the province by SaskSport.

The Aboriginal Sport Program will also be managed by SaskSport and will see $100,000 for Aboriginal sport development in Saskatchewan.  The federal government announced in the fall of 2006 the establishment of an Aboriginal sport program with provinces and territories.  Among other initiatives, the funding will provide resources to the Saskatchewan First Nation Games Capacity Initiative, which will enable the Red Pheasant First Nation to host the 2007 Saskatchewan First Nation Summer Games.

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For more information, contact:

Janet Peters
Culture, Youth and Recreation
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4967
Email: jpeters@cyr.gov.sk.ca