Ottawa Tourism’s new video series celebrates athletes of different abilities and backgrounds, showing that inclusion is the future of sport.
Canada’s capital is redefining what it means to be a leader in inclusive sport. Through Ottawa Tourism’s new “Every Body Plays in Ottawa” video series, the city highlights women athletes, para champions, Special Olympians and 2SLGBTQIA+ athletes.
“‘Every Body Plays in Ottawa’ is a call to action and a celebration of inclusivity in sport. We want every person in Ottawa to feel welcome and empowered to compete, regardless of age, ability, or background,” says Stephanie Seguin, Vice President, Sales, Business & Major Events, Ottawa Tourism. “Recreation at any level isn’t exclusive. It’s about creating spaces where everyone belongs.”
Why Representation Matters
Representation in sport isn’t just about who’s on the field; it’s about whose stories are being told. “Every Body Plays in Ottawa” amplifies voices often left out of traditional sport coverage. Changing the narrative requires showcasing diverse perspectives and celebrating all forms of athletic excellence, underscoring that representation is essential to building a community where every body can play and belong.
“Sport is evolving. Now more than ever, equity and inclusion define successful sport hosting,” Seguin notes. “Ottawa’s approach shows that embracing these communities isn’t just the right thing—it’s the future of competitive sport.”
A Community-First Approach
By sharing the stories of athletes who have overcome challenges and found support in their city, the video series celebrates the partnerships that make Ottawa a hub for inclusive sport. Beyond the videos, Ottawa Tourism backs its commitment through initiatives like the Tourism Accessibility Fund, which awarded $100,000 in funding in 2025 to help local businesses make improvements to infrastructure that help reduce barriers.
“By leading with accessibility and representation, Ottawa is working to create welcoming environments for athletes and fans, strengthening experiences for future events, leaving a lasting legacy for local communities, and striving for a city where every body can play,” Seguin says.
Diverse Voices, Shared Passion
The “Every Body Plays in Ottawa” series was developed to authentically reflect Ottawa’s inclusive and accessible sports culture.
“This series was built collaboratively from concept to execution. Ottawa Tourism worked hand-in-hand with leagues, clubs and community leaders to identify the athletes and stories featured in the series. Their input shaped the campaign, so it truly reflects Ottawa’s vibrant and evolving inclusive sports community,” Seguin explains.
Women in Sport
Photo: Ottawa Tourism
Photo: Ottawa Tourism
The launch of the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s Ottawa Charge ignited a movement, with sold-out games, Bank Street temporarily renamed “Charge Avenue” during the Walter Cup playoffs, and fans filling TD Place to capacity. On June 24, 2025, the team hosted the PWHL Draft, drawing huge crowds for a community celebration.
But the excitement doesn’t stop at the rink. The debut of Ottawa Rapid FC in the Northern Super League brought professional women’s soccer to the city, drawing record crowds and inspiring a new generation of athletes.
Meanwhile, international women’s rugby continues to thrive, as Ottawa welcomed Team Canada and Team USA to TD Place for the Pacific Four Series, setting attendance records and solidifying the city’s reputation as a destination where women’s sports shine.
Zoe’s story: Zoe Boyd shares her journey as an original Ottawa Charge defenceman in the PWHL: “Ottawa is such a diverse, inclusive city. [During] the home opener with the Ottawa Charge, I looked up, the crowd was roaring and there wasn’t a seat to be had. That moment told me that we’re ready.”
Special Olympics
Photo: Ottawa Tourism
Photo: Ottawa Tourism
Ottawa’s commitment to athletes of all abilities is evident both in its hosting record and in its community programs. The city has welcomed marquee events such as the 2022 and 2023 YONEX Canadian Para Badminton International, the 2024 and 2025 Canadian Boccia Championships and the 2025 Special Olympics Ontario School Championships, each showcasing world-class talent and Ottawa’s accessible venues.
Kimana’s story: Kimana Mar, a Special Olympics rhythmic gymnast and three-time world champion, describes how she’s empowered to thrive: “I’m surrounded by the most amazing and supportive coaches. As a person with Down syndrome, it is extremely important to show everyone what I’m capable of.”
Para Sport
Photo: Ottawa Tourism
Photo: Ottawa Tourism
Accessibility is being woven into every aspect of sport in Ottawa. During the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship, organizers partnered with Ottawa-based Whimble to provide on-site personal care attendant services at TD Place and the Canadian Tire Centre—a national first that underscored the city’s commitment in inclusive hosting.
Brianna’s story: Brianna Hennessy, a Paralympic athlete in wheelchair rugby and Paralympic medallist in para canoe and para kayak, reflects on the power of resilience and community support: “The sports community in Ottawa has shaped who I am today, and that’s exactly what I had to pull from after my accident. Those tools that I learned growing up helped me get a piece of my heart back.”
2SLGBTQIA+ Sport and Community
Photo: Ottawa Tourism
Photo: Ottawa Tourism
The Ottawa Wolves RFC, the city’s inclusive rugby club, exemplifies how sport can build belonging and pride. In 2022, Ottawa hosted the Bingham Cup, the world’s largest amateur rugby tournament and a global celebration of 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive sport. Over 1,700 athletes from around the world came together, cementing Ottawa’s status as a welcoming, queer-friendly destination.
Ottawa Tourism’s Rainbow Registered accreditation further affirms that commitment, recognizing the city’s efforts to create safer spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ visitors and athletes alike.
Josh’s story: Josh Gutoskie, Vice-President, Ottawa Wolves Rugby Football Club, shares his thoughts on the Ottawa sports scene: “There’s a lot of acceptance within the sporting community in Ottawa, it’s very freeing to just be yourself while playing sport.”
A PROVEN TRACK RECORD
With premier venues like TD Place, Canadian Tire Centre and Abilities Centre Ottawa, as well as university and college sports fields and arenas—plus more than 11,000 hotel rooms, many accessible—Ottawa is equipped to welcome every athlete and fan.
Recently hosted and upcoming events
- Canadian Ringette Championships (2025 and 2026)
- Women’s Volleyball Nations League (2025)
- Canada vs USA – Senior Women’s Test Match – Women’s Rugby (2025)
- Canadian Boccia Championships (2024 and 2025)
- Wheelchair Rugby National Championships (May 2026)
- World Junior Girls Golf Championship (September 2026)
- IWBF Wheelchair World Championships (September 2026)
MAKE YOUR MOVE
Ottawa is a hub for accessible and inclusive sport. Our commitment to inclusivity makes it a standout destination for event organizers seeking meaningful impact. Contact the Major Events & Sport team first for fresh ideas, expert support and trusted local connections.
Devin Jenkins
Manager, Major Events and Sport
djenkins@ottawatourism.ca
Joey Swarbrick
Manager, Major Events and Sport
jswarbrick@ottawatourism.ca