Mary-Sophie Harvey launches Starting Line swimming program for Montreal North youth

Mary-Sophie Harvey, who represented Canada at the Tokyo and Paris Olympics, spent a weekend earlier this month in Montreal North helping youth from underrepresented communities discover competitive swimming—a sport she has pursued her whole life.

The program, called Starting Line, is in its first year and operates in groups of roughly 4 to 10 youth per session. Participants try different strokes and drills, then get assessed. The program also provides introductory swimming lessons, aquatic skills assessments, and parent information sessions.

Harvey, a native of Laval, said giving back to communities with fewer opportunities was personal. "I come from a small town, and I didn't have the most opportunities growing up so I think it's very special to give those kids a chance to potentially achieve their dreams," she said.

Catherine Turcotte, assistant coach of the Montreal North swim team, said the team was grateful to have been chosen for the program. "It helps give the opportunity to new Canadians to try out a new sport and develop new skills and community-wise they're involved with the community and hopefully they get to learn a new sport and a new passion and get involved for many years to come," Turcotte said.

Starting Line provides financial support for 10 youth to offset the costs associated with competitive swimming—a significant barrier for many families. "It's honestly like life changing for some families and it gives them the opportunity to be in a community where you play sports, you get to meet new faces, you make new friends so it's very exciting," Harvey said.

Turcotte noted the program has already drawn substantial community interest. The coaches are currently evaluating participants to identify the strongest candidates to continue in the program for the coming season.