Issue link: https://publications.tfs.ca/i/1467827
ENTRE NOUS THE INVITATION TO PLAY AGAIN Gym classes and competitive sports have always offered students a physical outlet and a chance to learn crucial social skills like turn- taking, being part of a team and working together toward a common goal. However, due to COVID restrictions, Shawn Dorman, athletic director at the West Campus, has seen his students become less physically active, and teachers have needed to take a different approach to health and wellness. "We have noticed that our students have slowed down," he shares, "so I want to see two things – that they are having fun, and that they are working up a sweat. It's great for their heart rate, but also for their overall health." This year, students were able to play low-contact sports again, including soccer and flag football, cross-country and ultimate Frisbee. "We try to offer a wide variety of activities," he says, "because we hope it will develop in them a lifelong love of the sport and of physical activity." 14 Having the right kind of spaces has been crucial to keeping students active. The West Campus mini- gym was turned into an obstacle course for students to develop their flexibility and balance. The main gym has worked well for volleyball, but is not ideal for popular sports like basketball, so students tend to spend more time outside. This winter's highlight has undoubtedly been the skating rink adjacent to the school. "We were thrilled that we were able to set up a rink so that the students can skate every day," Mr. Dorman says. "We can see our kids' anticipation to get on the ice and get some fresh air, and it helps them fall in love with winter." A young student on the obstacle course in the West Campus' mini gym.