Abstract
Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment LaunchPad (MLSE LP) is an ambitious ‘living lab’ for Sport for Development that provides a wide range of accessible sport programming and developmental opportunities aimed to improve youth outcomes. MLSE LP created seven core values which members are encouraged to embrace. Along with the core values, the Sport for Development programs are informed by evidence-supported frameworks such as the MLSE LP Theory of Change model (Warner et al., 2019) to optimize the positive outcomes of participation. The purpose of this research was to understand how participants’ experiences at MLSE LP following the COVID-19 pandemic aligned with the organization’s Theory of Change and Core Values. Six focus group interviews were completed with 38 MLSE LP youth members (Mage = 12.03 years, SD = 1.61). Abductive thematic analysis (Thompson, 2022) was conducted. Themes identified within the MLSE LP Theory of Change model included increased sport interest, enhanced social capital, and increased life skills. Themes associated with MLSE LP Core Values highlighted by youth included ‘our differences make the difference’ (in which diversity is celebrated) and ‘youth first always’ (prioritizing a safe and comfortable environment). In addition, members emphasized feelings of familial bonds with peers and coaches (‘we are family’) and the positive and affirming environment MLSE LP creates (‘big up yourself and those around you’). Evidence from the findings will help to support the translation and implementation of evidence-supported frameworks within youth sport programs.
