True Sport

Escrime Mont-Royal (EMR) was first introduced to True Sport through the Coaching Association of Canada and 2015 RBC Sports Day in Canada. The True Sport Principles resonated with the Montreal-based fencing club; they became a member shortly thereafter and proudly posted the principles in their facilities.

In September 2016, the club overhauled their rules to require that EMR members abide by the True Sport Principles while in the “salle d’armes,” at tournaments and when they represent the club. In addition, EMR requires all coaches, staff and board members to declare as True Sport members. True Sport is also built into their coach selection process and a True Sport declaration is required before a new coach can teach at the club.

EMR Chairperson, active coach, athlete, referee, tournament secretary and armorer, Peter McLaughlin’s advice to anyone looking to start their True Sport journey is to, “Begin it now! Start with the True Sport Principles, sign the declaration and spread the word. Let people around you know that you believe that sport should be open, welcoming and safe for all involved.”

“True Sport offers a guidepost for developing well-rounded individuals, inside and outside of sport. As a national program, True Sport allows us to commit to open and independent principles the whole country can support. Everyone involved in our club, including prospective participants and various partners, can be reassured by our club’s part in a nationwide effort to improve sport for all.”