What Is Bell Starting Line?
Bell Starting Line is a program created by Bell and Team Canada to help newcomer youth across Canada discover sport in a way that is fun, welcoming, and made just for them – no experience needed.
Sport is more than just play; it helps kids build confidence, make friends, and feel like they belong. For many families new to Canada, getting involved in sport isn’t always easy. It’s hard to know where to start and barriers like cost, transportation, and time can get in the way.
That is where Bell Starting Line comes in.
Through free, beginner-friendly events, kids can try sports in a supportive environment alongside Team Canada Olympians and local coaches.It’s all about trying something new, feeling included, and having a good time!
It doesn’t stop there; Bell Starting Line connects families to local sports organizations and covers the costs of a free series of sport lessons so kids can keep playing, growing and thriving.
For parents, it’s a trusted, supportive program to help a child get active, discover a new passion, and feel at home in their community.
For youth, it’s a chance to try sport, play, and make friends
Bell Starting Line is growing every year – bringing more sports to communities across Canada. Because every kid deserves a place at the starting line.
Ready to jump in? Here is what’s coming up:
Date: Saturday, August 15th, 2026
Location: Richmond Olympic Oval, Richmond, B.C.
Sports: Golf & Basketball
Details: TBD
Registration: TBD
Featuring: Canadian Olympians, Golf Canada and Canada Basketball.
2026 National Sport Organization Collaborators
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who can join? New Canadian kids ages 8–14 are welcome—whether it’s their first time or they’ve played before. Everyone belongs!
- Is it free? Yes! It’s 100% free for all families.
- Do we need experience? Nope! This is all about trying something new, learning, and having fun. Beginners are especially welcome.
- What should we bring? Just come ready to play! Wear comfy clothes, running shoes, and bring a water bottle.
- How do we sign up? TBD
Past Events
Track & Field – Toronto, October 4, 2025
In collaboration with Athletics Canada, the NSO for track and field, Bell Starting Line hosted a try-athletics event at the Toronto Track and Field Centre. Team Canada Olympians Andre De Grasse, Jacqueline Madogo, and Jazz Shukla were on hand to engage newcomer youth in track and field games and drills. Bell Starting Line provided subsidized access for targeted newcomers to the track and field clubs who participated in the Toronto event.
Speed Skating – Montreal, December 13, 2025
In collaboration with Speed Skating Canada, the NSO for both long track and short track speed skating, Bell Starting Line hosted a try-speed skating event at the Arena Maurice Richard. Montreal-area speed skating clubs, as well as Team Canada Olympians Charles Hamelin, William Dandjinou, Alyson Charles and Kaylna Roberge, were on ice to provide a first exposure to skating in a fun, inclusive environment.
Curling – Calgary, February 14, 2026
In collaboration with Curling Canada, Bell Starting Line hosted a learn to curl event during Team Canada FanFest in Calgary, AB at the MacPhail Centre. Team Canada Olympians John Morris and Cheryl Bernard were on ice to provide a first exposure to curling to newcomers. The program was followed by a 6 week Learn to Curl program for those participants who registered as a next step.
Track & Field – Ottawa, June 20, 2026
The Bell Starting Line Track & Field event in Ottawa was a high-energy, beginner-friendly experience designed to introduce newcomer youth to athletics in a welcoming environment. Hosted at the Terry Fox Athletic Facility on Saturday, June 20, 2026, the event brought together participants from newcomer organizations to take part in a fun Mini Pentathlon, offering a hands-on introduction to multiple track and field disciplines. Following the event, participants were provided with opportunities to continue their sport journey through subsidized summer camps with the Ottawa Lions, helping to support ongoing participation and development.
Testimonials
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