Major Research Project (MRP):
A Systems Analysis of Maltreatment, Power,
and Inequity in Canadian Sports

The capstone research project for the Master of Design. In it, I explore the persistence of maltreatment in the Canadian sport system and the role of power. Using foresight and systems methods, this research builds on the existing conversation to provide a systemic perspective on how to build a more equitable sports system.

Context: Completed between July 2021 and May 2022.

Deliverables: Systemic and stakeholder analysis, exploration of an ideal future, strategy development, report design, research and analysis.

Abstract

Reports of abuse in sports continue to emerge in the news alongside increasing calls from athletes for systemic change. Recent research and news stories highlight the continued and widespread prevalence of maltreatment across the sports system. The problem has been explored over the past several decades by athletes, researchers, and coaches among others with many recommendations for improvements being made. Despite positive strides, the problem persists. 

Building on the existing body of work, the following research explores the persistence of maltreatment and inequity in Canadian sports. Asking the question how might we reconsider power to build a safer, more equitable sports system, I examine the structures and influences that contribute to the problem. I examine public cases of abuse and first-hand perspectives to identify the relationships and primary sources of power shaping stakeholder behaviours. These insights are used to uncover opportunities to rethink the current power distribution and identify influential leverage points for change. It concludes by exploring an ideal future and providing strategic recommendations to move towards it.