The "Du Sport en Plus" program kicked off last Saturday, April 29. Around Scott Simons, a dozen young athletes from the CAFA swimming club, accompanied by their parents, gathered together. They attended the first workshop on the theme of "stress management."
Mr. Simons has agreed to join the Council for Sport's cohort of speakers to share his values and experience with younger generations.
This was the first conference held as part of the initiative to support young athletes in eastern Montreal and provide them with training and workshops.
The Sports Council and young athletes met with Scott Simons at the Anjou Community Center. An expert in health and wellness, he is a passionate speaker on the importance of "true" breathing and eager to share simple wellness tools.
"I feel privileged and honored to be part of this project, which can help young people better manage their stress, anxiety, health, breathing, and potential. For me, this generation is the future," says the expert.
It all started with a simple question: "How is your breathing today?" Stress, breathing, energy, and potential were the key words of the conference. Through exercises, role-playing, reflection, and explanations, Scott Simons gave young athletes a range of simple and quick tools to increase their potential and reduce their anxiety.
They left feeling relaxed and now understand the importance of mindful breathing. Mr. Simons also emphasized that competitiveness does not have to be stressful. Competition should be about "achieving a goal together, not destroying your opponent." The important thing is to grow and learn about ourselves.
This first workshop will be followed by another... Young athletes, sports clubs, and associations in eastern Montreal, get ready—the program has begun! Don't hesitate to join us and seize new opportunities!
Maude LACASSE coordinates the program with the help of Vincent DUMAS, regional sports development manager at the Montreal Sports Council. She is available for future collaborations and would be delighted to assist you!
