Abstract: Sport is lauded for its potential to foster positive mental health outcomes for young people, from developing self-esteem and a sense of purpose to cultivating social connections and resilience. These benefits are arguably most crucial for those who are marginalized, minoritized, and/or oppressed, as they often face disproportionate exposure to adversity, trauma, and systemic barriers that significantly impact their well-being. For these populations, sport can (and should) be a space for belonging and for healing. And yet, all too often, youth sport environments exacerbate the very mental health challenges they claim to alleviate. For example, young people who are marginalized, minoritized, and/or oppressed often experience discrimination, microaggressions, stereotype threat, and inadequate culturally competent support. This, when combined with other issues in youth sport (e.g., overtraining, heightened pressure, perfectionism, hypermasculinity), transform sport from a potential haven into a source of stress, anxiety, and trauma. All too often, sport fails — and actively harms — the very populations who stand to gain the most.

A fundamental shift is imperative. This keynote presentation will examine the changes that must occur for sport to promote mental well-being. This includes dismantling discriminatory practices, integrating trauma-informed approaches, prioritizing holistic well-being over performance, and cultivating truly inclusive and equitable environments where every young person feels safe, valued, and supported. This will transform sport into a powerful tool for mental health for those who need it most.