The ministry encourages involvement in sport, recreation and physical activity for the health, social, and economic benefit of Ontarians and the communities in which they live. Through its support of the sport and recreation sectors at the provincial and local level, the ministry helps meet the government's priorities in health, education, job creation and economic growth and promotion of volunteerism.

The ministry contributes to a strong provincial sport system and the development of athletic achievement in Ontario. It fosters the involvement of children and youth in sport and recreation, recognizing their contribution to healthy child development and positive youth development.

Sport provides role models for the pursuit of personal excellence, exemplifies the value of teamwork and builds community pride. Competitive amateur sport also stimulates broadly based participation in physical activity, leading to better health, higher productivity and a stronger social fabric.

• Provincial Sport Organizations
• Expectations for Fairness in Sport
• International Amateur Sport Hosting Policy
   — Guidelines
• Ontario Sports Awards
• Long Term Athlete Development
• Quest for Gold

Recreation is vital to the health and well-being of individuals, and strengthens communities by encouraging volunteer involvement and providing constructive activities for youth. The $4 billion that Ontarians spend annually on recreation, sport and fitness has a powerful impact on job creation and the economy.

• Communities in Action Fund (CIAF)
• Ontario Trails
    • Ontario Trails Strategy
• Provincial Recreation Organizations
• Youth at Risk

Studies show that people who are physically active live longer and healthier lives. They have significantly less risk of developing heart disease and other chronic health problems - leading to a better quality of life and lower health care costs.

• ACTIVE2010
• Pause to Play
• Community Physical Activity Planning
• Canada's Physical Activity Guide to Healthy Active Living

Leadership by coaches and volunteers is the key to both safe participation in recreation, sport and physical activity, and the achievement of athletic excellence. Effective coaching creates positive experiences that encourage children and youth to continue their participation and improve their skills and performance.

• Coaching in Ontario
• Sport Safety Programs
• Making it Safer