“35 years ago, the iconic sports/fantasy movie Field of Dreams captured the hearts of North American cinema-goers by grossing over $84.4 million at the box office. The movie left us with the unforgettable quote, ‘If you build it, he will come,’ as an Iowa farmer built a baseball diamond in his cornfield. Fast forward to today, Canadian Olympian Mark Pearson is creating his own Field of Dreams, but with a focus on field hockey instead of baseball.
Pearson, a three-time Canadian men’s field hockey Olympian, has organized a two-day introductory clinic for youth aged 10-14 at the historic field hockey turf near Ottawa. This initiative is part of his mission to share his love for the sport and inspire a new generation of athletes. Thanks to the OLY Canada Legacy Grant, Pearson received funding to bring in equipment and clothing for up to 45 newcomers to the sport, with a goal of removing barriers and creating a safe environment to learn about field hockey.
A Field of Dreams in the Gatineau Valley
Located in the Gatineau Valley near Ottawa, the mini field hockey turf at St. Michael’s High School in Low, PQ., is reminiscent of Pearson’s version of the Field of Dreams. The turf field, known as Brennan Field, has historical significance as it was where Canada’s national field hockey team qualified for the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney by winning the gold medal at the 1999 Pan-Am Games in Winnipeg.
Introducing Youth to Field Hockey
Pearson’s two-day clinic aims to introduce the basics of field hockey to young athletes who may be trying the sport for the first time. The clinic includes on-field sessions as well as classroom discussions about Pearson’s journey in field hockey, the values of sport, and the Olympic movement. It’s an opportunity for kids to experience the sport and potentially discover a newfound passion for field hockey.
Supporting Local Sport Initiatives
Pearson is not alone in his efforts to support grassroots sport initiatives. Other Canadian Olympians with National Capital Region connections, such as Ariane Bonhomme, Kelleigh Ryan, Laura Leclair, and Jill Moffat, have received grants for their programs that aim to boost representation in sport, support Indigenous communities, empower female athletes, and provide resources for athletes with family planning needs.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the impact of initiatives like Pearson’s introductory field hockey clinic and the programs led by other Olympians, it’s clear that sports have the power to unite communities, inspire youth, and create positive change. By supporting local sport initiatives, we can help nurture the next generation of athletes and create a brighter future for sports in our community. Let’s continue to build our own Fields of Dreams, where all athletes have the opportunity to thrive and succeed.”
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