The group dives into the significance of EDIA. Nicole shares her experiences with the Wanderers and Hockey Nova Scotia diversity committees, emphasizing the need for intentional representation and safe spaces. Morgan underscores the value of networking and creating inclusive environments where individuals can feel supported, while Kurtis reflects on the importance of community in shaping positive change.

In a deeply personal segment, Kurtis offers nuanced advice for individuals with disabilities exploring adaptive sports, whether born with a disability or acquiring one later in life. He also thoughtfully explores language—why some embrace or avoid the term “disability”—and how self-identification plays a vital role in empowerment and advocacy.

The group discusses stigmas and stereotypes they’ve faced both as athletes and coaches, ranging from assumptions about competence to challenges with accessible infrastructure. They also explore intersectionality—how overlapping identities (such as gender, race, or socioeconomic status) affect experiences in sport.

A key framework discussed is the three-question model: “Can I get there? Can I play? Can I stay?”—a holistic approach to designing accessible sport & recreation environments. This involves considering transportation, physical accessibility (like washrooms), financial costs, opportunities for participation beyond competition, staff readiness, and the broader sense of community and support.

Zach shares his perspective as an ally and how able-bodied individuals can better support and advocate for those with disabilities. He emphasizes that allyship means listening, learning, asking questions, and being unafraid to make mistakes in the process of trying to do better.

Kurtis also shares how he got involved in adaptive golf, highlighting the importance of mentorship, awareness, and having access to the right equipment.

Looking ahead to 2025, the guests discuss what coaches can do to foster inclusive and welcoming environments. Their advice includes not making assumptions, being curious and open-minded, and actively engaging with individuals who have lived experiences. They stress that creating inclusive sport spaces is a continuous journey—one that benefits from compassion, humility, and a willingness to grow.

The episode concludes with a reflective and moving question: What advice would you give to your younger self?

• Nicole reminds us that “everything happens for a reason.”
• Zach encourages taking risks: “Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—you don’t know unless you try!”
• Kurtis offers hope: “You may see your disability as a negative thing, but don’t let that stop you—it could be life-changing.”

Morgan suggests leaving sport on a high note: “Walk away while you’re happy. Appreciate and hold on to the good memories and lessons.”

In this episode of the Coach’s IDEA Podcast, host Marvin Okello welcomes Lewis Page and Kennedi Kiarash, the head coach and assistant coach of the Halifax Tides, respectively.

The conversation dives into several important topics about coaching and women’s sports, touching on their personal coaching journeys, mentors, and favorite moments as athletes. The coaches share their thoughts on how the landscape for female coaches and athletes has evolved in Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Canada, particularly in light of recent discussions about the importance of supporting female athletes financially to ensure they can focus on their sport without needing additional income sources. The Tides, they discuss, provide their players with fair salaries, which has become a notable point of conversation in women’s sports.

Further, they discuss the importance of EDIA (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) both personally and within the broader coaching community. Kennedi provides insight into how coaches in 2025 can better support an inclusive and diverse environment for their athletes, especially women.

The coaches also reflect on the impact of Canadian soccer stars like Kara Lang and Christine Sinclair, noting the increasing prominence of Canadian female athletes like Jordan Huitema and Kadeisha Buchanan in international leagues, and how this will shape the future of women's soccer.

Lastly, they share memorable sports moments as fans and offer advice for coaches working with female athletes, rounding out a dynamic and inspiring conversation about the evolution of women in sports, coaching, and the importance of mentorship and support.

In this episode of the Coach's Idea Podcast, join host Marvin Okello as he engages in a profound conversation with Tasia McKenna and Vaughn Arthur. With insights into their personal coaching journeys, they discuss the significance of representation in sports coaching and the powerful impact of diverse mentorship.

Discover how Tasia and Vaughn navigated challenges and found joy in their respective coaching roles, while emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive and welcoming environments for athletes. This episode highlights the evolving landscape of coaching and the critical need for community, communication, and understanding in fostering a more equitable sports environment.