Canadian Olympic School Program inspires learning through Canada's Olympic heroes

Toronto, ON, January 23, 2012

TORONTO – With the London 2012 Olympic Games coming up fast, the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) will use stories from this year’s Olympians and Olympic hopefuls to inspire children and teach them about leadership, respect and healthy active living through the 2012 edition of the Canadian Olympic School Program.

“Canadian Olympians and Olympic hopefuls are our best ambassadors for the values of leadership, respect and health living,” said Martha Deacon, Chair of the COC’s Education Committee. “The Canadian Olympic School Program uses these values to educate, inspire and encourage Canadian students.”

“The messages promoted by the Canadian Olympic School Program are important, no matter your age or where you live,” said boxer Mary Spencer, 2011 Pan American Games gold medallist and Closing Ceremonies flag bearer. “They’re universal. I’m proud to be a part of spreading these values.”

The 2012 edition of the Canadian Olympic School Program was launched at Williamson Road Junior Public School in Toronto where 2012 Olympic hopefuls Mary Spencer (Boxing) Martin Reader (Beach Volleyball) and Tobias Oriwol (Swimming) led students through part of the Canadian Olympic School Program curriculum.

The Canadian Olympic School Program has engaged students in the Olympic Movement since 1987, inspiring students to achieve their personal best through Olympian stories, activities, movement skills, podcasts, case studies and project packs. The program, developed for teachers by teachers, is designed to promote Olympic values and the importance of pursuing personal excellence in all facets of life.