University of Alberta - Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation

Happy National Health and Fitness Day (June 6)!

The goal behind today is simple: challenge Canadians to get moving and work toward becoming one of the healthiest nations on Earth. But keeping communities active takes more than just encouragement. It requires real, evidence-based strategy. That’s where the Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation comes in.

KSR’s research directly shapes how we approach fitness and wellness, including developing the world’s first guidelines for postpartum exercise, making public recreation spaces more inclusive and demonstrating how structured physical activity improves cancer recovery outcomes.

Take a look at the 2025 KSR Research Impact Report to see how we're creating healthier futures at uab.ca/ksr

An incredible achievement for Bachelor of Kinesiology student Ryder Rattee and another proud moment for the Green and Gold. 💚💛

Building a foundation for a lifetime of health. We are proud to share the news of a $93.5-million gift to the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute — the largest gift ever received by the University of Alberta.

This funding supports vital research that impacts the lives of children and women. We are pleased to be part of this world-class research environment, working together to ensure every woman and child in Alberta can thrive.

uab.ca/thrive

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Congratulations to KSR student-athletes Abby Guezen and Ryder Rattee, who have been named the 2026 Canada West Athletes of the Year — the conference’s top honour.

Abby, a third-year KSR student and outside hitter from Sherwood Park, helped lead the Pandas to both Canada West and U SPORTS championship titles. She was also named national Women’s Volleyball Player of the Year, U SPORTS Championship MVP and the University of Alberta’s Female Athlete of the Year.

Ryder, a second-year KSR student and track and field athlete from Spruce Grove, delivered a record-setting season for the Golden Bears, winning three gold medals at the U SPORTS Championships and earning U SPORTS Athlete of the Meet honours. He was also named the University of Alberta’s Male Athlete of the Year.

Abby and Ryder will now move forward as the Canada West nominees for the Lois and Doug Mitchell U SPORTS Athletes of the Year Awards, which will be announced May 20.

Congratulations, Abby and Ryder! 🐼🐻💚💛



https://canada-west.prezly.com/albertas-abby-guezen-and-ryder-rattee-named-canada-west-athletes-of-the-year

The Steadward Centre Spring Into Action Campaign ends tomorrow.

There is still time to help remove financial barriers and create more opportunities for people experiencing disability to be active, belong and pursue their goals.

Your gift helps make inclusive recreation possible:
$50 ensures facility access for four months
$100 reduces program fees for a year
$500 supports a 6-week program
$1,000 trains a volunteer
$2,500+ trains a staff member

Help us finish strong and create access, belonging and opportunity through The Steadward Centre.

Donate today: https://ualberta.alumniq.com/crowdfunding/Crowdfunding/tsc

Let’s hit the greens! ⛳

The Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation Alumni Association invites KSR alumni, students, faculty, staff and guests to the annual KSRAA Golf Tournament on Thursday, June 18 at The Quarry.

This fun-first, 9-hole scramble is a great opportunity to reconnect with the KSR community, build your network and enjoy an evening of golf, dinner and friendly competition.

All skill levels are welcome. Spaces are limited.

Learn more and register: https://www.ualberta.ca/en/events/kinesiology-sport-recreation/ksraa-annual-golf-tournament-2026.html

We are in the final week of our Spring into Action campaign in support of The Steadward Centre.

Your gift helps remove financial barriers and supports inclusive recreation and fitness opportunities for people experiencing disability.

Here is what your support can do:
$50 provides facility access for four months
$100 helps reduce program fees for one year
$500 supports a six-week program
$1,000 helps train a volunteer
$2,500+ helps train a staff member

Give now while the campaign is underway and help make a meaningful difference. https://ualberta.alumniq.com/crowdfunding/Crowdfunding/tsc

Meet Caleb.

Caleb has grown up with The Steadward Centre. As a teen looking to get more active, he joined Teen Fitness Fun, where he worked out each week and connected with others. From there, he discovered para-swimming — and a love of competition.

Today, Caleb trains through The Steadward Centre’s Athlete-in-Training program, swims with the Keyano Para Swim team four times a week and with Special Olympics once a week. He has also become a role model for younger athletes, leading by example through his commitment, consistency and determination.

A graduate of the U of A's On Campus program, Caleb has also worked with children in the Green & Gold Summer Camps, continuing to inspire others to get active and find what they love.

Thanks to donor support, The Steadward Centre has given Caleb a place to fit in, a place to belong and a place to thrive.

From April 15–30, we’re raising $50,000 to help create that same sense of belonging for others.

$50 to ensure facility access for four months.
$100 to reduce program fees for a year.

Give what you can. Every gift makes a difference: https://ualberta.alumniq.com/crowdfunding/Crowdfunding/tsc

Starting their first period early can be challenging for any girl, but for competitive dancers, the pressures of costumes, performance and visibility can make it even harder.

New KSR research led by assistant professor Margo Adam and graduate researcher Alysha Ambrosio highlights the need for more tailored support for young dancers who start menstruating early.

The findings highlight the importance of honest conversations, better guidance and making sure girls know they are not alone.

Read more: https://www.ualberta.ca/en/news/spotlights/2026/04-apr/young-dancers-struggle-with-early-periods.html