By habit or by relevance, the sporting events usually highlighted involve top athletes. Professional or amateur athletes, at the height of their careers. However, the Montreal Games were launched for the 46th time, Wednesday evening, and more than a dozen established athletes showed up, “because it is important”.
The event took place on the second floor of the Claude-Robillard sports complex, in the Ahuntsic-Cartierville district.
In the center of the floor in question, a reception room improvised by large black canvases, with nearly a hundred precisely aligned chairs and a well-lit stage.
Just before officially launching this event in which young Montrealers aged six to 12 will take part in 28 disciplines, between Wednesday and Sunday, all the ambassadors have agreed to discuss with La Presse, the only media present for the occasion.
Cocktail or cold meats in hand, they all talked about the need to hold this kind of event. To develop and cultivate in these children a curiosity, an interest and a passion for physical activity and healthy lifestyles.
“I know all the benefits of sport, not only physically but also socially, so I have to give back,” said Games spokesperson Patrice Bernier. It’s like the Olympics for them. »
Through his presence and his involvement, he wants to amplify the idea that regardless of the context and the notoriety of the competition, it is essential to promote the sport. “We often talk about elite sport, but it’s at those ages that you develop your passion. This is where you have fun. That’s where you hang on to an activity,” added the former Montreal Impact captain.
Nikolaj Sorensen and Laurence Fournier Beaudry returned from the World Figure Skating Championships in Japan on Monday morning. Despite the effects of jet lag, it was imperative for the couple to be present at the ceremony. “You have to show young people that it’s possible to reach the highest level, staying in Montreal,” Sorensen thinks.
According to Fournier Beaudry, “It takes young people to be able to associate with high-level athletes that they see on television. You have to come to events like this to promote our sport and ensure that the next generation is motivated. »
Childhood is a critical period in the development of a child. Especially in athletic children. The habits developed during this period will be decisive for the rest of their lives.
Children aged six to 12 are often overlooked. Few major events are aimed at them. However, it should perhaps become a priority, a question of instilling a good foundation in them.
“The results, at this age, have no connection with the results that we can have later, insists Pascal Dion. The short track speed skater reminds us of the importance of emphasizing the notion of pleasure. The rest will follow naturally. That’s what makes you develop a long-term athlete. You have to learn and above all have fun. »
The Olympian also mentioned the need to try a multitude of disciplines: “Until I was 12, I played soccer in the summer and skated in the winter. My parents always encouraged me to do lots of sports, precisely to develop my physical skills, but also to avoid being intense only in one sport. »
Maximilien Van Haaster, two-time Olympian in fencing, advocates coaching and support: “If they are here, it’s because they have a certain passion for the sport. So we have to help them and guide them. If left to their own devices, some will continue, but many may quit. Whether competitive or for fun, the main thing is that young people continue. »
The Montreal Games also represent a golden opportunity to introduce new disciplines to these young people, as testified by rugby player Frédérique Rajotte: “You only hear about it in high school, if you’re lucky. To show that it exists, that there are leagues at all levels and show that we are also there to parents that there are opportunities for their children, because it is important. »