News
2008 News Articles Back to News & Events
NOVEMBER 2009 HEADLINES:
NFL Youth Coach of the Year Award Finalists
Former Stampeders on quite a ride
OCTOBER 2009 HEADLINES:
OFA Summit Summary
OUA Honours Football Official Murray Taylor
H1N1 Important Information
Canada's Most Valuable Coach
Coaches helping coaches, CAO
SEPTEMBER 2009 HEADLINES:
U of T Minor Football Night
Niagara Storm Punt Pass Kick Competition
Twin Cities Coaching Positions Available
Niagara Storm Coaching Positions Available
Team Ontario Coaching Positions Available
AUGUST 2009 HEADLINES:
OFC Updates 2009
U15 National Flag Football Tournament
Football Canada Cup Results
Argo Minor Football Day
JULY 2009 HEADLINES:
IFAF World Junior Championships Article
Six-a-side football: Guelph Lions bring home gold
JUNE 2009 HEADLINES:
Provincial Flag Football Tournament Results
Canada Crushes New Zealand - IFAF game results
MAY 2009
OFC Opens 2nd Varsity Division
Seven Most Common Sport Injuries
Former Team Ontario Player Drafter in 4th Round
LTAD
Ron Lancaster Memorial Climb
APRIL 2009
Junior World Cup
CJFL
National Team
New Executive
IFAF Coaching Staff
FINALISTS NAMED FOR 2009 ‘THE HOME DEPOT’
NFL YOUTH COACH OF THE YEAR AWARD
Winner of national grassroots program to receive $5,000 in new equipment and a $1,000 gift card from The Home Depot for their football program; Runners-up to receive $2,000 in new equipment and a $500 gift card from The Home Depot
Toronto, ON – November 10, 2009 - Ten finalists have been named for the 2009 The Home Depot NFL Youth Coach of the Year Award, the NFL announced today. The award, now in its eleventh year, is designed to recognize community or high school level coaches across Canada who share a passion for football and dedicate themselves to the development of young players both on and off the field.
The following 10 youth coaches (coaching organized teams of tackle football players under the age of 19) are this year’s finalists:
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Coach
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Team/Program/Community
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Ivan Yurgan
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Assumption Catholic Secondary School, Burlington, ON
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Mike Darling
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Oakridge Secondary School, London, ON
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George Knowlton
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Clarington Tigercats, Central Ontario Minor Football League, Clarington, ON
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Mark Townsend
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Victoria Renegades (Greater Victoria Minor Football Association) & Mount Douglas Secondary School, Victoria, BC
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Jeff MacLean
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Truro Blue Bombers, Truro Minor Football Association, Truro, NS
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Lyle Evanisky
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Martensville High School, Martensville, SK
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Bruce Marlow
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Columbia Valley Bighorns (Kootenays), British Columbia Community Football Association, Columbia Valley, BC
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Paul Brown
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St. Mark High School, Manotick, ON
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Geordie Wilson
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Charleswood Broncos, Manitoba Minor Football Association, Winnipeg, MB
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Bruce Waddell
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Shoal Lake School, Parkwest School Division, Shoal Lake, MB
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More than 500 coaches from across Canada were nominated for the award. Football players, volunteers, fans, administrators and fellow coaches submitted short essays recognizing the positive impact a coach in their community has on young players. Nominators were asked to consider how their coach taught respect, safety, motivation, leadership and appreciation for the game of football when drafting their nominations.
Over the past ten years the program has contributed more than $130,000 in equipment and facility upgrades to deserving programs, and put the spotlight on the grassroots-level coaches who are the backbone of football in Canada.
Acting as a spokesman for the program in 2009 is Brian Billick, coach of the Super Bowl XXXV Champion Baltimore Ravens. During the month of October a public service announcement aired during NFL broadcasts in Canada and featured Billick encouraging Canadians to nominate a local coach.
“Youth football coaches are some of the hardest working volunteers out there,” said Billick. “This program is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to these leaders of young men and women.”
“Passionate amateur coaches are the engines that drive the growth of football in this country, “ added Mike Danischewsky, Manager, Events and Communications, NFL Canada. “Together with The Home Depot we are proud to recognize these community leaders who prove that good coaching is not about wins and losses, but rather the positive impact coaching can have on young players.”
The winning coach will be selected by a panel of journalists from across Canada, NFL and The Home Depot representatives. The winner and runners-up will be announced via press release on Thursday, November 19, 2009 in Toronto.
$5,000 of new football equipment will be donated to the winning coach’s program. The winning coach will also receive a $1,000 gift card from The Home Depot (for ‘football program related renovation projects’, such as field repair, fixing bleachers, painting a locker room, etc.). If required project assistance will also be provided by local The Home Depot associates through Team Depot.
Two runners-up schools will each receive $2,000 in equipment and $500 gift cards from The Home Depot.
The winning coach will also win a trip to Quebec City as a guest of the NFL at this year’s Desjardins Vanier Cup celebrations, and will be honoured at the CIS coaches breakfast on Friday, November 27, 2009, and attend the Desjardins Vanier Cup, scheduled to be played the following day.
The NFL is a long-time supporter of the game of football at the grassroots level in Canada. Other grassroots initiatives include community ‘Flag League’ and Junior Player Development. For more information visit www.NFLCanada.com.
For more information on The Home Depot NFL Youth Coach of the Year Award, to receive details from the essays used to nominate the above listed coaches, or to find out how many times each coach was nominated, please contact:
-30-
Brian Findlay
Stellick Communications/NFL Canada Communications
(416) 603-9452 x 301
(416) 802-4062 - mobile
bfindlay@gotoguys.net
Former Stampeder stars are on quite a ride
The Hamilton Spectator
Thu Nov 5 2009
Page: SP5
Section: Sports
Byline: Larry Moko
Source: The Hamilton Spectator
Two walking advertisements for the Burlington Minor Football Association will be on national television Saturday afternoon. They're record-breaking quarterback Danny Brannagan of the Queen's Gaels and talented tailback Joey Nemet of the McMaster Marauders. The two Burlington Stampeder rep products -- and former Burlington elite gym training members -- will lead their respective teams into an OUA semifinal. It's a 1 p.m. kickoff in Kingston, scheduled to be televised as part of a doubleheader on The Score.
The other semifinal matches the Western Ontario Mustangs against the Laurier Golden Hawks in Waterloo at 4:30 p.m. McMaster special teams/running backs coach Larry Guarascia has seen both Brannagan and Nemet blossom into outstanding collegiate players. "I coached Danny when he was a young boy in peewee," Guarascia said. "It's great to see somebody from the BMFA come all the way through and have a career like Dan did. He also played with Team Canada (Juniors)." Brannagan, in his fifth and final year of eligibility, broke former McGill quarterback Matt Connell's CIS career passing yardage record this season. However, Brannagan's 10,714 yards ranks second on the all-time list behind Western's Michael Faulds (10,811).
"It's too bad he didn't do it at Mac," said Guarascia with a laugh.
In Game 2 this season, Guarascia said he felt concern when a hard hit by McMaster linebacker Justin Vince gave Brannagan a mild concussion, sidelining him for the second half.
A graduate of Assumption Secondary School, Brannagan completed 174 of 280 passes (in seven games) for 2,580 yards this season. He threw 15 touchdown passes and had seven intercepted.
"As a young player, Danny was head and shoulders above other quarterbacks in the league," Nemet recalled. "He was always a group level ahead of me, but we practised together."
The two also played against each other in high school (Nemet attended Bateman) and worked out at Sport Specific Training in Burlington.
"Even as a young kid Danny had an incredible work ethic. At SST, he was always throwing around some big weight. So I got to see him on the field and off the field. He has all the skills, physical and mental attributes to play the game." Brannagan's father, Dan, also coached in the Stampeders organization. He serves as an assistant coach in the press box with the Gaels.
"I know his dad pretty well. He recruited me to go to Queen's," Nemet said.
With the Marauders this season, Nemet, 20, was asked to share more of the ball-carrying duties. That's because of the return -- after a stint with the Canadian national rugby team -- of third-year running back Jordan Kozina. They're Mac's K0-Jo backs.
This season, Nemet gained 612 yards on 98 carries, while former 1,000-yard-rusher-as-a-rookie Kozina contributed 720 yards on 116 carries. In 2008, Nemet led the team in rushing with 759 yards on 130 tries.
"I knew when Jordan came back he would be a huge asset to the team and that I would have to share the rushing load," Nemet said. "I'm completely happy with that." Said Guarascia: "It's a nice 1-2 punch.
"As any football player should be, Joey was probably threatened at first when Jordan came back. But he reacted in the right way. He worked hard. They're both flourishing."
Mac's offence is multi-dimensional with Nemet, Kozina and Matt Peressini serving as threats to either run with the ball or catch a pass out of the backfield.
"Joey has gotten really good at using his eyes to recognize where the gaps are and hitting them," Guarascia said.
First-place Queen's won the game against Mac 8-7 during the regular schedule. But the Marauders, who defeated Ottawa Gee-Gees on the road last weekend, believe the rematch against the Gaels will be a different story.
"I think it will be a real battle," Nemet said. "We're two very well-coached teams."
Queen's went 8-0 in 2008 before a stunning loss in the first round to Ottawa. In that loss, however, three of the Gaels top players, including CIS rushing leader Mike Giffin, did not play.
Nemet, a 5-foot-11, 195-pounder, has two more years of eligibility remaining. Brannagan, who realizes how difficult it is for a Canadian quarterback to break into the Canadian Football League ranks at that position, says his CA degree should hold him in good stead for the future.
lmoko@thespec.com 905-526-2458
Ontario Football Alliance Summit
September 25-27, 2009
Brampton, Ontario
The Football Summit was an excellent example of individuals from different leagues, geographies, etc. coming together in an attempt to structure football in Ontario and grow the sport. The removal of impediments to growing football in Ontario was a by product of some great discussion and collaboration. We had representation by the major Leagues in Ontario, OFA, OFOA, CIS/OUA, Ministry of Ontario, Football Canada and the CFL. To read more click here.
OUA HONOURS FOOTBALL OFFICIAL MURRAY TAYLOR
October 3, 2009 TORONTO, Ont. – Ontario University Athletics (OUA) honoured long-time football official Murray Taylor prior to the Toronto Varsity Blues and York Lions game at York Stadium in Toronto on Saturday.
Taylor has been officiating for 49 seasons, including 40 seasons in OUA from 1968 to 2007. During that span Taylor has officiated 17 Yates Cups championships, beginning in 1973. His final Yates Cup in 1998 was a special moment as he called the game with his son Bryan who is now an official in the Canadian Football League. Taylor was also part of history when he officiated the first-ever football playoff game hosted by Carleton University in 1986.
Taylor was also selected to seven Vanier Cups, including 1992 when he was a referee. Also on his resume are six Churchill Bowls, including 1996 where he was a referee. He was an umpire for the 1990 Atlantic Bowl.
Taylor was a referee for the first Metro Bowl in 1982. He was honoured lifetime membership of the Toronto Football Officials Association in 1997, and received the Tom Cheney Award in 2006, given for outstanding contribution and service toward the improvement of football officiating in Canada.
October 5, 2009 - H1N1 Flu Information for Coaches
The CAO is asking coaches to work together to fight the spread of the H1N1 Flu to help protect players, coaches, parents and administrators. Below are some tips on how you can help fight the spread of H1N1 among your athletes:
1. Some clubs/associations have opted to avoid shaking hands after the game and are using alternative methods - i.e. cheering and clapping for other team at the end of the game.
2.Avoid sharing water bottles
3. Encourage athletes to stay home from practice if they are experiencing any of the flu symptoms mentioned below
4. It is recommended that players/coaches/assistants carry personal size bottles of hand sanitizer with them for all practices and games
Both seasonal and H1N1 flu have the same symptoms. Those can include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. For more information visit http://www.fightflu.ca
Campbell's® Chunky® partners with Coaching Association of Canada and TSN to find Canada's Most Valuable Coach Chunky Soup the CAC and TSN will recognize the contributions of the estimated 1.8 million Canadian coaches with the launch of Chunky MVC: Most Valuable Coach contest. This program encourages the millions of Canadians involved in community, amateur and competitive sports to
visit www.chunkymvc.ca to nominate a coach who has made a real
difference in their lives and the lives of others by reflecting and
promoting the values of leadership, activeness and community. The
winner of Chunky MVC will receive a prize package valued at $25,000
for his or her athletes and community. Click here
http://www.chunkymvc.ca/ to learn more.
Coaches Helping Coaches
SIRC is now in Toronto!
Do you receive the SIRC Daily Press Release Service or follow the SIRC job postings. Did you know that SIRC is Canada's Sport Information Resource Centre? Come and visit us at our new satellite office in Toronto. SIRC (Sport Information Resource Centre) has partnered with
Sport4Ontario to provide you with access to the best resources available in sport, recreation, wellness and physical education. One of our information specialists will be available onsite to guide you to what you are looking for. For more information visit us online at http://www.sirc.ca
Do you know how to Check your NCCP Transcript online?
Coaches can access their Coach Education Transcript by entering their CC# and last name through the Coaching Association of Canada's database. Click here
<http://nccp.coach.ca/apex/f?p=150:58:3737257212168354::::F117_LOCALEID:1>
to login. For got your CC #? Contact the CAO office (416-426-7086) or
email coach@coach.ca mailto:coach@coach.ca or call 613-235-5000
CAO Supports Play, Live, Be Tobacco-Free Initiative
Tobacco-Free Sports and Recreation is an initiative striving to create the healthiest possible environment for youth and everyone involved in sports and recreation. It means that everyone taking part in a sport or recreational activity – participants, volunteers, officials, coaches, leaders and spectators – do not smoke, snuff, dip or chew tobacco while participating in a tobacco-free activity.
Coaches play a vital role in influencing the behavior of young athletes. The CAO is encouraging all coaches to get educated on the effects of tobacco and promote a tobacco-free environment in their community. Click here http://www.coachesontario.ca/index.php?option=com_docman&task=cat_view&gid=69&Itemid=88> to read the fall 2009 newsletter, which provides information and tools to get you stared. To learn more about this initiative, visit www.playlivebetobaccofree.ca
Member Messages
Membership Renewal: Fall membership expires September 30, 2009. Renewing your membership is easy. Click here https://www.karelo.com/login.php?&R=1&LR=1&nl=1&BT=10&Lang=EN&BID=154&PEv=5431>
to renew online for only $25 for one year or $60 for three years. Click sign up now and enter your information (once received, the system will recognize your information and a new card will be issued). If you have any trouble renewing online, or would like to renew your
membership over the phone, please call our office at (416) 426-7086 or toll free at 1-888-NCCP-ONT
Toronto Raptor's Discount for CAO Members:
CAO members, friend and family can enjoy the Toronto Raptor's games for a discounted rate. Click here https://oss.ticketmaster.com/html/group_corp_start.htmI?l=EN&team=raptors&owner=7083469&group=254&err=&event=&customerID=> to learn more and enter special offer code: Coaches
Upcoming Events:
OPHEA Kid's Health Conference: October 15-17, 2009, Nottawasaga Inn, Alliston. Join elementary and secondary school teachers, principals, public health professionals and recreation leaders at Ophea's Kids' Health Conference for an unforgettable experience in professional learning and networking. Click here http://www.ophea.net/ophea/Ophea.net/kidsconference.cfm to learn more.
Argo's Coaching Symposium: Friday, October 16th. Hear from coach Leo Cahill and two Argo's Alumni on coaching methods and techniques and enjoy a silver ticket to the game against Edmonton Eskimo's at the Rogers Centre in Toronto. Tickets are only $50 and $40 for additional friends and family members. Contact Jaren Hayman at jhayman@argonauts.ca
Petro Canada Sport Leadership: November 12-15, 2009, Vancouver. Early bird registration deadline ends October 2nd. Click here http://www.coach.ca/sportleadershipsportif/2009/e/index.cfm to register and learn more. to learn more
Pan Am Games – Decision Day. The final presentation and vote for the 2015 host city taking place at the PASO Annual General Assembly in Mexico in the first week of November. Keep up to date on the many exciting activities and announcements taking place over the next two months. Visit our website at http://www.toronto2015.org for all the news.
Ontario Coaches Conference February 26-28, 2009 Guelph.
Visit http://www.coachesontario.ca/q4g for more information
U of T Minor Football Night September 25, 2009
2010 Team Ontario Coaching Positions Available
The Under 17 & Under 19 Team Ontario participate every year in the national tournament, Football Canada Cup.
The tournament will be held from July 3 - 10, 2010 in Wolfsville, Nova Scotia.
Ontario Football Alliance is now accepting applications for the Head Coaches positions.
Applicants should have completed the NCCP level 3 and have strong connections in the football community. If you are interested in applying forward your coaching resume to:
Ontario Football Alliance, Attn: Tina Turner, 100 Crimea St. Unit B11, Guelph, ON N1H 2Y6 by September 18, 2009.
PUNT PASS KICK COMPETITION SEPT. 26, 2009
CHECK IT OUT!
COACH SELECTION
The NIAGARA STORM FOOTBALL CLUB is currently accepting applications for all coaching positions.
Click Here for all the details and contact information.
Twin Cities Minor Tackle Football is currently accepting applications for the following position:
Head Coach OFC Junior Varsity
&
Head Coach OFC Varsity
Click on the position to view requirements and duties.
ARGO MINOR FOOTBALL DAY
Thank you to everyone who supported Argo Minor Football Day!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE U17 EAST TEAM ONTARIO FOR BRINGING HOME THE GOLD!
2009 FOOTBALL CANADA CUP JULY 4 - 11 www.footballcanadacup.ca
2009 NATIONAL U15 FLAG CHAMPIONSHIPS
Carleton University, Ottawa, On
CONGRATULATIONS TO U15 CHAMPIONS TEAM ONTARIO
SILVER MEDAL WINNER TEAM BRITISH COLUMBIA
BRONZE WINNER TEAM MANITOBA
Scores HERE
Purchase Merchandise HERE
AUGUST 19, 2009 - The Ontario Football Conference teams start their quest this weekend for the ‘Teddy Morris Memorial Trophy”, emblematic of the OFC Championship. The OFC has expanded again this year with the Ottawa Sooners returning to play after a 14-year absence. Last season the Hamilton Hurricanes made the same move.
These two will face each other Saturday August 22nd in Ottawa at Keith Harris Stadium at 7:00 pm.
The head coaches of both teams are past winners of the Canadian Junior Football League’s Peter Dalla Riva Outstanding Offensive Player Award. The Sooners’ Andy McEvoy won the award with Ottawa in 1984 and the Hurricanes’ Jason Hayes won the award with Hamilton in 1993. The Sooners have won four CJFL championships – 1974, 1979, 1984 and 1992 while the Hurricanes were the 1972 champions.
The perennial powerhouse St Leonard Cougars take on the London Beefeaters at TD Waterhouse Stadium in London at 2:00 pm. The Cougars had their eight-year rein as OFC champions stopped in 2008. St Leonard has promoted long time assistant Jeff Rached to the head coaching position. The Beefs also named a new head coach with the appointment of long time London area coach Brad Winder.
Sunday afternoon the defending OFC champions Burlington Braves travel to Windsor for a 4:00 pm kick off against the AKO Fratmen at Windsor Stadium. The Braves and Fratmen both had to fill a few key positions but both expect to finish in the playoffs. Craig Davoren for the Braves and Mike Lachance for the Fratmen are returning as head coaches.
The OFC will host the Prairie Football Conference champs in the Intergold Cup (CJFL semi final) with the winner advancing to the Canadian Bowl Saturday November 14th at the home of the British Columbia Football Conference champions.
Guelph Lions Bring Home the GOLD!
Congratulations to the Guelph Lions who won the Six-A-Side Championship at Ivor Wynne Stadium on Canada Day! The Lions took on the Brampton Eskimos in the Championship game and won the game 30-0. Congratulations to both teams for a season well played.
Be sure to check out our gallery for pictures during the event - Click Here
If you would like to start a Six-a-Side Football League in your area please contact us for all the details at admin@ontariofootballalliance.ca!
The 2009 IFAF World Junior Championships
CANADA ADVANCES TO FINAL WITH DRAMATIC VICTORY
Montreal, July 1, 2009 – Alex Anthony of Victoria scored the winning touchdown with 16 seconds left in the game to give Canada a 38-35 victory over Japan and a berth in the final at the 2009 IFAF World Junior Championships in Canton, Ohio.
Click HERE for the Press Release
Tournament PHOTOS (updated 06/30)
ROSTER AND PLAYER PHOTOS
Hamilton Patriots Win Gold at the Provincial Flag Football Tournament
On Saturday June 27th, 2009, the Ontario Football Alliance hosted our 3rd Annual Flag Football Provincial Tournament. This year we hosted both the U15 NFL Flag Division and also the U13 Flag Division. Congratulations to the U15 Division Winners the Hamilton Patriots who took the gold medal game over the Hamilton Steelers 53-7. Click Here for the FULL STORY.
CANADA CRUSHES NEW ZEALAND
Montreal, June 27, 2009 – Canada crushed New Zealand 55-0 in its opening game Saturday at the 2009 IFAF World Junior Championships in Canton, Ohio.
Click HERE for the Press Release
Find real-time game stats HERE
May 2009
RON LANCASTER MEMORIAL CLIMB
On Saturday May 23, 2009, the 3rd annual Climb for Cancer will be taking place at the Hamilton Chedoke Golf Course escarpment stairs. Teams of 4 will climb the stairs for an hour, between 9am and 5pm, to raise money and awareness in support of the Juravinski Cancer Centre. Last year over 500 people climbed the equivalent of Mount Everest 27 times and raised over $42,000 dollars.
Funds raised go directly towards supporting the Juravinski Cancer Centre and its mission to provide patients with high quality service in therapy & family support, leadership in education, and devotion to active cancer research. The JCC is the only cancer treatment facility in Central West Ontario capable of providing radiation therapy, and provides 60% of the regions chemotherapy. Over 200,000 cancer patients received these treatments last year.
Among many new highlights of this year’s Climb will be the Ron Lancaster Memorial Climb in honour of the CFL legend. Teams from throughout the football community including; players, cheerleaders, office staff and the mascots from both the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Toronto Argonauts will taking part between 12-1 in a friendly competition to out fundraise and out climb each other. Participate along side these teams or simply come out to meet them and enjoy the day’s events, including the Climb for Cancer Wellness Fair. To learn more, register or donate visit www.myclimbforcancer.com
The Ontario Football Conference opens varsity division
The Ontario Football Conference (OFC) a conference of the Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL) announces the opening of the second season of the varsity division.
“It is with great anticipation that I look forward to the second season of the varsity division of the Ontario Football Conference. After last year's spectacular final between the champion Burlington Stampeders and the Toronto Jr. Argonauts at Ivor Wynne Stadium, you can look to even more exciting games this year as the Sudbury Gladiators, Twin Cities Predators, York Simcoe Bucs and our newest entry, the Hamilton Wentworth Panthers, try to depose the Stampeders. With the addition of the junior varsity and pee wee age levels, there will be many football triple headers that fans won't want to miss”, commented OFC President Doug Dittmer and Varsity President Mike Ramsay.
The league plays an exciting brand of three down Canadian Football to prepare athletes for Junior or CIS play. The league’s founding members are clubs with a long and successful track record of competitive play and sound administration.
Games begin Saturday May 23rd. The complete schedule can be found on the OFC website. www.ofcfootball.com
For more information about OFC Varsity football contact Michael Ramsay michaeljramsay@hotmail.com or 905-808-6060; about OFC Junior football contact Dr. Doug Dittmer dougdittmer@msn.com or 519-652-6280 ……
The Seven Most Common Sports Injuries
What weekend warriors need to know about preventing and treating the seven most common sports injuries
By Matthew Hoffman, MD
WebMD Feature Reviewed by Jonathan L Gelfand, MD, MD
After a sedentary work week, end-zone catches and 36-hole weekends can take their toll in common sports injuries. The seven most common sports injuries are:
1. Ankle sprain
2. Groin pull
3. Hamstring strain
4. Shin splints
5. Knee injury: ACL tear
6. Knee injury: Patellofemoral syndrome — injury resulting from the repetitive movement of your kneecap against your thigh bone
7. Tennis elbow (epicondylitis)
To see how to prevent and treat these common sports injuries — and to learn when it's time to look further than your medicine cabinet to treat sports injuries— read on.
The most common sports injuries are strains and sprains
Sprains are injuries to ligaments, the tough bands connecting bones in a joint. Suddenly stretching ligaments past their limits deforms or tears them. Strains are injuries to muscle fibers or tendons, which anchor muscles to bones. Strains are called “pulled muscles” for a reason: Over-stretching or overusing a muscle causes tears in the muscle fibers or tendons.
“Think of ligaments and muscle-tendon units like springs,” says William Roberts, MD, sports medicine physician at the University of Minnesota and spokesman for the American College of Sports Medicine. “The tissue lengthens with stress and returns to its normal length — unless it is pulled too far out of its normal range.”
Preventing the most common sports injuries
Sometimes preventing common sports injuries is beyond our control, but many times sports injuries are preventable. “Some injuries,” Roberts says, “we bring on ourselves because we're not conditioned for the activity.” His advice: “Work out daily and get double benefit — enjoy your weekend activities and garner the health benefits.”
Every workout should start with a gentle warm-up to prevent common sports injuries, says Margot Putukian, MD, director of athletic medicine at Princeton University. “Getting warmed up increases blood flow to the muscles, gets you more flexible, and could decrease injuries,” she adds.
Overuse injuries are common and preventable, according to Putukian. “Don't come out and hit the ball for an hour after not playing for a while,” she says. Whether it's hiking, running, or team sports, do some “pre-participation training” first by lightly working the relevant muscle groups in the weeks before the activity.
And learn to recognize when you've already left it all on the field. “Stop when you are fatigued,” says Roberts. “Muscle fatigue takes away all your protective mechanisms and really increases your risk of all injuries.” You can always come out to play again next weekend — if you don't get injured today.
Treating the most common sports injuries
Usually, common sports injuries are mild or moderate — there's some damage, but everything is still in place. You can treat them at home using the PRICE therapy method described later in this article. But you should expect that some common sports injuries may take months to heal, even with good treatment. If a sprain or strain is severe, however, the entire muscle, tendon, or ligament is torn away, and surgery may be needed.
Here are some specific tips for treating each of the most common sports injuries:
1. Ankle sprain
What it is: Most athletes have experienced a sprained ankle, which typically occurs when the foot turns inward. This turning stretches or tears the ligaments on the outside of the ankle, which are relatively weak.
What you can do: With an ankle sprain, it’s important to exercise to prevent loss of flexibility and strength — and re-injury. You can ask your doctor or physical therapist to help you know what kinds of exercise you should do.
When to see a doctor: It’s important to note where the sprain has occurred. “A 'high ankle sprain' is slower to heal and should probably be seen by a doctor to make sure the bones in the lower leg did not separate,” says R. Marvin Royster, MD. Royster is assistant team physician for the Atlanta Braves and an orthopedic surgeon with Peachtree Orthopedic Clinic in Atlanta. One way to recognize a high ankle sprain is that this sprain usually causes tenderness above the ankle.
2. Groin pull
What it is: Pushing off in a side-to-side motion causes strain of the inner thigh muscles, or groin. “Hockey, soccer, football, and baseball are common sports with groin injuries,” says Royster.
What you can do: Compression, ice, and rest will heal most groin injuries. Returning to full activity too quickly can aggravate a groin pull or turn it into a long-term problem.
When to see a doctor: “Any groin pull that has significant swelling should be seen early by a physician,” Royster says.
3. Hamstring strain
What it is: Three muscles in the back of the thigh form the hamstring. The hamstring can be over-stretched by movements such as hurdling — kicking the leg out sharply when running. Falling forward while waterskiing is another common cause of hamstring strains.
What you can do: “Hamstring injuries are slow to heal because of the constant stress applied to the injured tissue from walking,” says Royster. “Complete healing can take six to 12 months.” Re-injuries are common because it's hard for many guys to stay inactive for that long.
4. Shin splints
What they are: Pains down the front of the lower legs are commonly called “shin splints.” They are most often brought on by running — especially when starting a more strenuous training program like long runs on paved roads.
What you can do: Rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medicine are the mainstays of treatment.
When to see a doctor: The pain of shin splints is rarely an actual stress fracture — a small break in the shin bone. But you should see your doctor if the pain persists, even with rest. Stress fractures require prolonged rest, commonly a month or more to heal.
5. Knee injury: ACL tear
What it is: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) holds the leg bone to the knee. Sudden “cuts” or stops or getting hit from the side can strain or tear the ACL. A complete tear can make the dreaded “pop” sound.
When to see a doctor: Always, if you suspect an ACL injury. ACL tears are potentially the most severe of the common sports injuries. “A completely torn ACL will usually require surgery in individuals who wish to remain physically active,” says Royster.
6: Knee injury: Patellofemoral syndrome
What it is: Patellofemoral syndrome can result from the repetitive movement of your kneecap (patella) against your thigh bone (femur), which can damage the tissue under the kneecap. Running, volleyball, and basketball commonly set it off. One knee or both can be affected.
What you can do: Patience is key. Patellofemoral pain can take up to six weeks to clear up. It's important to continue low-impact exercise during this time. Working out the quadriceps can also relieve pain.
7. Tennis elbow (epicondylitis)
What it is: Repetitive use of the elbow — for example, during golf or tennis swings — can irritate or make tiny tears in the elbow's tendons. Epicondylitis is most common in 30- to 60-year-olds and usually involves the outside of the elbow.
What you can do: Epicondylitis can usually be cleared up by staying off the tennis court or golf course until the pain improves.
The PRICE principle for treating common sports injuries
The U.S. Marines say that “pain is weakness leaving your body.” Most of the rest of us would add, “OK, but can't we hurry it up a little?” The answer is yes. Using the PRICE method to treat any common sports injury will help get you back in the game sooner.
First, it’s important to know that swelling is a normal response to these injuries. Excessive swelling, though, can reduce range of motion and interfere with healing. You can limit swelling and start healing faster after common sports injuries by using the PRICE principle:
· P — protect from further injury
For more severe injuries, protect the injured area with a splint, pad, or crutch.
· R — restrict activity
Restricting activity will prevent worsening of the injury.
· I — apply ice
Apply ice immediately after a common sports injury. “Ice is the miracle drug” for sports injuries, says Putukian. “It's an anti-inflammatory, without many side effects.” Use ice for 20 minutes every one to two hours for the first 48 hours after the injury. Don't use heat during this time — it encourages swelling and inflammation.
· C — apply compression
Compression with an elastic bandage will help reduce swelling.
· E — elevate the injured area
Elevating the injured area above the heart will also reduce swelling.
Over-the-counter pain relievers usually relieve the pain of common sports injuries to a tolerable level. If they don't, it's probably time to see a doctor.
When to get medical attention for common sports injuries
We know you're tough — but you also need to be smart. If you suspect a serious injury or if you have any of these signs, see a doctor:
· Deformities in the joint or bone — it looks “crooked,” or moves abnormally
· You cannot bear weight or can't use the limb without it “giving way”
· Excessive swelling
· Changes in skin color beyond mild bruising
· It's not getting any better after a few days of PRICE therapy
FORMER TEAM ONTARIO PLAYER DRAFTED IN 4th ROUND OF 2009 CFL DRAFT
As the 2009 CFL Draft kicked off on May 2nd, OFA is proud of its players that have graduated to CFL Football!
Zachary Pollari, 2004 Team Ontario player was drafted by the Toronto Argonauts in the 4th Round (26th Overall). In 2008 Pollari was selected to play in the CIS East West Bowl as a senior representing Western. He played with the Guelph Bears in club football under coach Kevin MacNeil. He graduated from Centennial C.V.I. in Guelph and was named school and district lineman of the year.
Other players drafted in 2009 include Brampton Linebacker James Yurichuk was drafted 4th overall by B.C Lions which was just two spots ahead of Mississauga Wide Receiver Darcy Brown who was drafted to Hamilton. Hamilton also picked up defensive back Ryan Hinds of Metro Toronto Wildcats as the 13th pick overall. Montreal drafted Ottawa Myers Riders Offensive Lineman, Ryan Mousseau in the 6th round.
Long-term Athlete Development and Canadian Sport for Life
Canadian Sport for Life (CS4L) is an initiative of Canadian Sport Centres and Sport Canada, planning for the sport excellence and well-being of Canadians. CS4L supports LTAD because it helps all children to be physically literate, recognizes that children play to have FUN, is a pathway to excellence from playground or pond to podium, and allows all Canadians to be physically active through sport and recreation participation.
APRIL 2009
#1 RANKED CANADA ANNOUNCES COACHING STAFF FOR 2009 IFAF JUNIOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
April 6, 2009 – Ottawa, Ontario - Football Canada in partnership with Football Quebec, announced the coaching staff that will lead the #1 ranked Canada in the inaugural International Federation of American Football (IFAF) Junior World Championship in Canton, OH from June 27 to July 5, 2009.
Some of the best coaching minds in Canadian amateur football have been assembled. This coaching staff is no stranger to international competition at this level with many of them returning from the Team Canada that brought home gold in the NFL Global Juniors hosted in Miami in 2007.
Glen Constantin, head coach for Universite Laval will serve as head coach for the Canadian junior national team. On the offense, Greg Marshall, head coach at the University of Western Ontario will serve as offensive line coach; Justin Ethier of Universite Laval will be the quarter back and offensive coordinator; Stephan Ptaszek, head coach at McMaster University will be the receivers coach.
On the defense, Blake Nill the head coach at the University of Calgary will handle the linebackers; Warren Craney, the defensive coordinator at Concordia University will serve as the same role for the junior national team; Marco Iadeluca head coach for the Canadian Junior Football League St. Leonard Cougars will be handling the running backs.
New additions to the staff include Jeff Cummins, head coach at Acadia University, who will oversee the defensive line; Mickey Donovan, special teams and recruiting coordinator with the Western Mustangs will work with the special teams, Finally, Kyle Walters, head coach for the University of Guelph will deal with the defensive backs.
Three regional camps will be hosted, including April 25-16 at McMaster University, May 23-24 at University of Calgary and May 30-31 at Concordia University. From these camps, selected players will receive an invitation from Football Canada to attend the final selection camp in mid June at the University of Western Ontario.
Entering into this competition, Canada holds the number one seed.
Since Canada’s first participation in the NFL Global Juniors in 2000, the team has won gold four times (2000, 2005, 2006, 2007) and finished second another four times (2001, 2002, 2003, 2004). The only team to defeat Team Canada at an international level is the United States, who will once again be tough competitors in this year’s tournament as the number two seed.
Eight national teams from the under-20 category will represent four continents. Canada, the United States and Mexico will represent the Pan-American region. Germany, Sweden and France will represent Europe and Japan will represent Asia. While New Zealand will round out the competition for the Oceanic region.
Football Canada
Established in 1884, Football Canada is the national governing body of amateur football in Canada and a proud member of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF). Working closely with the provincial football associations, we develop programs and resources for players, coaches, officials in the three disciplines of Tackle, Flag and Touch Football. Football Canada promotes “from playground to stadium” where players can participate in the game of football throughout a lifetime recreationally, competitively, internationally and from player to coach to official.
Coaches bios are available at http://www.footballcanada.com/programs_international.asp
NEWS IN CJFL: Citing personal reasons, Canadian Junior Football League Commissioner Ron Osterkampf stepped down today.
Deputy Commissioner Antonio ‘Tony’ Iadeluca has agreed to take over as Interim Commissioner until the 2009 CJFL Annual General Meeting.
Osterkampf was elected to the Commissioner’s post at the 2005 CJFL AGM in St. Leonard , Quebec . Ron was previously President of the Prairie Football Conference.
Along with his new responsibilities, Iadeluca will continue in his role as President of the St. Leonard Cougars of the Ontario Football Conference. Tony can be contacted at ti.sr@videotron.ca .
NATIONAL TEAM: The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) has confirmed that Canada will be the number one seed and the host country for the Junior World Championship the United States will be ranked number two. Mexico will hold the third seed and Japan will be ranked fourth in the eight country championship to be held in Canton, Ohio. The first round of competition kicks off Saturday, June 27th.
Head Coach Glen Constantin, the head coach of Laval University, will oversee regional tryout camps in eastern, western and central locations across Canada. Players will be invited to camps at University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta (May 23, 24), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario (April 25-26) and Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec (May 30-31). From those camps a total of 60 players will attend a final selection camp in Ontario in June and Team Canada will travel directly to canton, Ohio from there.
For more information about the IFAF Junior World Championships visit www.jwcfootball.com
INTERNATIONAL NEWS: 
SEEDING AND FIRST ROUND OPPONENTS ANNOUNCED FOR 2009 IFAF JUNIOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP TO BE PLAYED AT PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME
Top-Ranked Canada Faces New Zealand; Host United States Kicks Off Against France; European Champion Germany Takes On Japan; Final Qualifier Mexico Will Meet Sweden
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2009, PARIS, FRANCE – The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) has announced the seeding that determines the first round opponents for teams participating at the inaugural 2009 IFAF Junior World Championship. Eight nations representing four continents will compete at Fawcett Stadium at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, from June 27 to July 5.
Announcing our Executive for 2009
President: Ed Sousa
Vice President of Finance: Steve Crawford
Vice President of Programs: Ian Smith
Vice President of Development: Larry Guarascia
Vice President of Technical: Russ Hoff
Vice President of Communications: Rick Allison
Ministry of Sport Consultant: Barbara Lyon-Stewart
Our Staff Includes: Executive Director: Tina Turner
Administrative Assistant: Chalene MacLeod
Technical Director: Joe Mlinaric
We would like to thank our out going President Pete Repac for all of his hard work and dedication.
FOOTBALL CANADA CUP 2009 SET FOR SK
The event will take place from July 3rd – 12th at the University of Saskatchewan. The event will host 12 teams, 7 in the Under 17 division and 5 in the Under 19 division. This year’s event will host Football Saskatchewan’s first Under 17 team.
Teams Under 17: Québec, Alberta South, Ontario East, Manitoba, Ontario West, Alberta North, Saskatchewan
Teams Under 19: Québec, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan
More information regarding the event will be posted soon.
CANADA NAMES COACHING STAFF FOR 2011 IFAF SENIOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Larry Haylor to lead TEAM along with 5 CIS coaches
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 20, 2008 – Hamilton, Ontario – Football Canada, the national body for amateur football, has named the coaching staff for the 2011 International Federation of American Football (IFAF) Senior World Championships. Larry Haylor, the former head coach of the University of Western Ontario Mustangs has been chosen to lead the team. Also named to the coaching staff are five head coaches of CIS teams who all have a winning background. The assistants include Greg Marshall from the University of Western Ontario, Blake Nill from the University of Calgary, Glen Constantin from the University of Laval, Jeff Cummins from Acadia University and Brian Towriss from the University of Saskatchewan. The location of the event has not yet been determined but Austria, Denmark and Germany have all bid to host the 2011 tournament. This competition will mark the first time that Canada will field a team for the IFAF Senior World Championships. They join the United States, who played in their first tournament in 2007. With the CIS season coming to an end, the coaches will meet to look towards 2011. Player selection criteria and team administration will be on the agenda.
Full details and coaching bios HERE