“As a province, we are committed to providing a dynamic and inclusive sport and recreation environment that encourages and enables all Islanders to experience and benefit from involvement in sport and recreation,” said Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs, Honourable Elmer MacFadyen. “Declaring a special day to celebrate sport and physical education is an important step in acknowledging the value of sport and quality physical education programs.”

Sport and physical education are key components in our education system. Strong physical education programs encourage involvement, positive social opportunities, respect and fair play promoting a lifelong appreciation for sport and recreation.

“We recognize the important role that schools can play in helping children develop knowledge, skills and attitudes to live healthy lives,” said Education Minister Mildred Dover. “During the past few years, the province has invested more than $10 million in physical education facilities in Island schools. We have worked collaboratively to introduce healthy public policy such as our new school nutrition policies. In addition, we have continued to offer quality physical education programs which help children to achieve success and enjoyment in a variety of physical activities.”

The Canadian Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (CAHPERD) is encouraging provinces across Canada to declare October 7 as Sport and Physical Education Day in celebration of the 2005 International Year of Sport and Physical Education.

Schools across the province are encouraged to celebrate physical education on October 7 and throughout the year. A variety of activity ideas are available by visiting www.yearofsportandpe.ca.