Sport has a powerful way of bringing people together. Whether on the world stage or in local communities, it creates moments of connection, pride, and belonging. But for some families, the cost of participating in sport can make those opportunities feel out of reach.
For Stella, a Winnipeg parent of three, enrolling her children in organized sport once felt out of reach.
“When you’re focused on keeping a roof over their heads, food on the table, and proper clothes for every season, it simply isn’t possible.”
With support from KidSport Manitoba, which helps cover registration costs so kids can play, Stella’s children were able to join soccer and gymnastics. Since then, she has seen a remarkable change in them.
For her daughters, gymnastics opened the door to their first extracurricular activity.
“In gymnastics, they have made new friends and built their own little community. They get so excited to come home and show us the stretches they’ve learned, proudly teaching us like little coaches.”
The benefits reached the whole family.
“The kids have gained confidence, made new friends, stayed active, and had a lot of fun doing something they love. Since starting in the developmental soccer program, my son has truly come out of his shell. The friendships he’s formed with his teammates have been incredible to watch. They’ve built a bond that feels unbreakable.”
Soccer has become a passion for Stella’s son, bringing energy into their home.
“Game days are a huge deal in our house. He gets ready so early and counts down the minutes until he can see his teammates, warm up, and play together. After the game, we always talk about how well the team played and how proud we are of the effort and teamwork everyone put into it.”
For Stella, the experience has shown how sport offers far more than physical activity.
“Sport brings people together from all different backgrounds and gives them a shared purpose and sense of belonging. Through sport, kids and families connect, friendships are formed, and support systems naturally grow. For children especially, sport teaches teamwork, respect, discipline, and perseverance. Those lessons don’t stay on the field. They carry into school, friendships, and adulthood.”
For Stella’s family, the chance to play has brought confidence, connection, and a community they are proud to be part of.
Soccer and gymnastics were among the sports that received the most KidSport support, with the program funding 407 kids in soccer and 220 in gymnastics. Across all sports, KidSport helped 1,868 Manitoban children take part. That’s hundreds of kids just like Stella’s little ones who may not have had the opportunity to experience the joy of sport without KidSport’s help.
