Canadian Olympic Committee celebrates International Women’s Day through contribution to Canadian Women & Sport
IOC recognizes Dr. Guylaine Demers and Melody Davidson as leaders in sport
TORONTO (March 8, 2020) – In recognition of International Women’s Day, the Canadian Olympic Committee is pleased to announce a $10,000 contribution to the Canadian Women & Sport organization.
Formally known as the Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity (CAAWS), Canadian Women & Sport is dedicated to creating an equitable and inclusive Canadian sport and physical activity system that empowers girls and women. Its mission is to challenge the status quo and build better sport through gender equity.
This contribution will be used to accelerate their “Gender Equity Playbook” work which involves a gender equity e-module, a gender equity audit, and action planning services.
“Canadian Women & Sport is committed to building a better Canadian sport system – from the field of play to the boardroom. We are so grateful for this donation which will be put to good use for our programs aiming to advance gender equity,” said Allison Sandmeyer-Graves, CEO, Canadian Women & Sport. “We value our relationship with the Canadian Olympic Committee in building even stronger communities together.”
On Friday, March 6, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) recognized Canadian Dr. Guylaine Demers with the 2020 IOC Women and Sport Award for the Americas. Dr. Demers is being recognized for her remarkable contributions to the development, encouragement and reinforcement of women’s and girls’ participation in sport.
In addition, earlier this year, coach Melody Davidson was recognized as an Honourable Mention recipient of the IOC Coaches Lifetime Achievement Award. Davidson is being recognized for her outstanding achievements and contributions as a coach who has developed and encouraged her players in line with the Olympic values while supporting their sporting dreams.
The Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) strongly believes in advancing gender equality to power sport and was proud to have nominated two Canadian women in leadership roles.
“Congratulations to Guylaine and Melody, two exceptional individuals who have empowered women through their work in sport,” said COC President Tricia Smith. “So deserving to be recognized by the international sport community.”
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MEDIA CONTACTS:
Josh Su, Specialist, Public Relations
Canadian Olympic Committee
C: 647-464-4060
E: jsu@olympic.ca
Photi Sotiropoulos, Director, Communications and Media Relations
Canadian Olympic Committee
C: 416-476-9174
E: psotiropoulos@olympic.ca