High school students from across the GTA visited the Goldring Centre for High Performance Sport for a doors-open Asian Heritage Month event hosted by KPE. “A Celebration of Sport and Physical Activity” featured sports demonstrations, workshops and remarks from decorated Asian Canadian leaders in the field of kinesiology.
Professor Gretchen Kerr, dean of KPE, welcomed the excited crowd to the Kimel Family Field House at the day’s onset.
“Movement,” she reminded the students, “is a human right, and essential to the health of all individuals and communities. One of the ways in which we advance this human right is by working to lift the barriers that currently exist in the field of physical education. These barriers come in many forms, and often mean impediments with regard to access, to inclusivity, to equity and to belonging.”
Professor Kerr then introduced the Honourable Dr. Vivienne Poy, former U of T chancellor, alumna and the first person of Asian ancestry to sit in the upper house of Canada’s Parliament. Speaking remotely via video, Dr. Poy emphasized just how important the KPE Faculty truly is.
“Physical exercise is not only good for our bodies, but for our minds,” she said, urging students to eat a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise.
It has been 24 years since Dr. Poy’s motion declaring May as Asian Heritage Month in Canada was passed. Every May since 2002, Asian Canadians are encouraged to express pride in their heritage and share their diverse cultures with everyone in Canada.
“We all helped to build this country,” said Dr. Poy, “and diversity makes us strong.”
The day continued with a keynote speech from Dr. Daniel Do, a former Varsity Blues men’s volleyball player. Now a doctor of optometry, Dr. Do has previously worked as a consultant for Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment and has more than 20 years’ clinical experience.
Dr. Do spoke about his family’s immigration to Canada from Vietnam. “We came in search of a better life,” he said, “and this is a common theme for many Asian Canadian families.”
“Growing up, I internalized the belief that going to school and getting good grades was all that I needed to succeed. I saw mental and physical health as distraction. I found out that, in order to succeed in life, you have to change that mindset,” Dr. Do said.
Students then watched a demonstration from Valdis Ling and Hymn Chan of the Varsity Blues fencing team, led by assistant coach and armorer Kiah Bransch.
Next, Associate Professor Joyce Chen took the stage to deliver a short lecture exploring music and movement. Her presentation examined the relationships between sound and motion, helping students to discover relationships between neurological processes and lived experience.
Students then heard from Toronto Catholic District School Board superintendent Roy Fernandes. “At your age, the sky’s the limit,” he reminded the audience. “Today, listen and learn and see what you can take from sport and movement; because no matter what culture you’re from, those pathways and those benefits will always be available to you.”
Then, during an open-house session of demonstrations, students had the opportunity to move throughout the Field House and explore a wide range of stations showcasing physical activity and studies in movement. From virtual reality and a prototype dragon boat erg machine to martial arts demonstrations and fitness seminars, the achievements and innovations of Asian Canadians in the field of kinesiology was on full display. A traditional Chinese lion dance was a highlight, and students had the opportunity to investigate the costume up close.
Finally, after lunch, Dianna “Dee” Ros, head coach of the Varsity Blues women’s basketball team sat down for a conversation with event MC Sharon Ng-Morga, director, brand strategy and marketing. Coach Dee called the sport experience and pursuit of passions “life-changing,” giving young people the ability to find out who they truly are.
“Being able to replicate the types of experiences that meant so much to me growing up is so rewarding,” said Coach Dee. “I’m hoping to create an environment that can build a strong foundation for self-confidence, for mental fortitude, for a great work ethic.”
KPE Director of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Terry Gardiner closed the event, thanking the huge roster of speakers, students, staff, alumni and partners who contributed to the day’s success. He also thanked the students themselves for attending
“Wherever you land,” Gardiner told the crowd, “we know that you have a bright journey ahead of you, and it’s up to you to decide how and where to apply yourselves.” He challenged the students to envision how their lives would allow them to give back to their own communities. “These values are part of how we all pay it forward.”