In the shadow of rising screen time and dwindling physical activity, North Bay’s beloved Battalion hockey club and the YMCA have joined forces to tackle youth health head-on. The collaboration couldn’t come at a better time – Statistics Canada reports that only 39% of Canadian youth meet recommended physical activity guidelines, a number that has steadily declined since the pandemic.
“We see the impact every day,” says Battalion captain Dalyn Wakely during the program announcement at Memorial Gardens. “Kids need positive outlets and role models. This partnership lets us connect with them beyond just hockey games.”
The initiative, which launches next month, will bring Battalion players into local schools and community centers, while creating subsidized YMCA memberships for families facing financial barriers. What makes this program unique is its holistic approach – addressing physical activity, mental wellness, and nutrition under one umbrella.
Nicole Beattie, North Bay YMCA’s regional manager, explains the urgency behind the partnership. “Post-pandemic, we’re seeing concerning trends. Young people are spending an average of 7.5 hours daily on screens, while physical activity participation has dropped by nearly 30% compared to pre-pandemic levels.”
Provincial health data supports these concerns. A recent Ontario Public Health report indicates Northern Ontario youth face higher rates of physical inactivity compared to the provincial average, with 63% falling short of recommended guidelines. These statistics helped secure partial provincial funding through Ontario’s Community Building Fund.
Local pediatrician Dr. Carolyn Morgan welcomes the initiative. “I’m seeing more young patients with preventable health issues – increased anxiety, sleep disruptions, and weight concerns. Programs like this that connect physical activity with positive social experiences can make a tremendous difference.”
Battalion defenseman Tnias Mathurin, who grew up in North Bay, brings a personal perspective. “I wasn’t always confident as a kid. The community center programs gave me structure and mentors. That’s what we want to provide – not just hockey skills, but life skills.”
The program structure includes weekly after-school sessions, monthly weekend workshops, and special events at Battalion home games. School board officials have already committed to integrating the program into physical education curricula across the district.
North Bay Mayor Peter Chirico praised the collaboration during Tuesday’s council meeting. “This partnership demonstrates the power of community organizations coming together. It’s exactly the kind of initiative that strengthens our youth development strategy.”
Financial accessibility remains a key focus. The program allocates 40% of its budget toward removing barriers for participation. “No child will be turned away for financial reasons,” Beattie emphasizes. “We’ve structured this so families can access programming regardless of their situation.”
The Battalion players’ involvement extends beyond appearances. Several have committed to specialized training in youth mental health first aid, recognizing that physical and emotional wellness are interconnected.
“Young people open up differently when they’re engaged in activity,” explains Wakely. “Some of my most important conversations with coaches happened during practice or in the locker room. That’s the environment we’re trying to create.”
Local businesses have also stepped up. Northern Credit Union committed $25,000 toward equipment, while North Bay Hydro’s community fund will subsidize transportation for rural participants.
Program specifics include age-appropriate activities ranging from structured sports to outdoor exploration and nutritional workshops. Sessions will rotate through different neighborhoods to ensure accessibility for families across the region.
What stands out about this initiative is its community-driven approach. Unlike top-down health programs, this one evolved from consultations with local youth, parents and health practitioners. A youth advisory panel will provide ongoing feedback and guide program adjustments.
For Battalion coach Ryan Oulahen, the initiative reflects hockey’s deeper purpose in smaller communities. “People see the games, but our responsibility extends far beyond the ice. This team belongs to North Bay, and we take that role seriously.”
The program’s soft launch begins next month with registration opening September 15th. Organizers expect to reach approximately 800 youth in its first year, with expansion plans already in development for surrounding communities.
As we finished our conversation at Memorial Gardens, a group of elementary students on a field trip peered curiously at the Battalion players setting up equipment demonstrations. Their excited whispers and wide eyes captured exactly what this initiative hopes to nurture – that spark of connection between community role models and the next generation.
For North Bay’s youth, the path to better health just got a little clearer, with familiar faces leading the way.
