This fall, the men’s Cavaliers teams had the privilege of welcoming Qadr Spooner—social worker and former CFL offensive lineman for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Edmonton Elks—as the lead facilitator for our annual workshops on the prevention of sexual and gender-based violence.
Over the course of two weeks, beginning on September 29th, student-athletes participated in a series of workshops designed to raise awareness and encourage critical dialogue around these important issues.
As part of a Ministry-mandated initiative, all post-secondary institutions are required to provide additional education and training to student-athletes on the prevention of sexual violence.
This year’s sessions were thoughtfully led by Qadr Spooner and Champlain Saint-Lambert Social Worker, Bouny Te, with the support and coordination of our Recreational Technician, Azizza Goyette.
The workshops focused on the key themes of consent, bystander intervention, responsibility, and power dynamics, using the high-profile Hockey Canada Summer 2025 case and trial as a framework for discussion.
The athletes engaged in meaningful and critical conversations, exploring the nuances of the case while considering the broader implications of consent and intervention and their own responsibility both as individual citizens and athletes.
The student-athletes were able to listen and discuss their thoughts around these issues while also hearing firsthand from a former pro athlete about the demands, expectations and reality of life as a professional athlete.
The initiative was a great success, and we look forward to welcoming Qadr back for future sessions as we continue to promote a culture of respect, accountability, and awareness within our athletic community.
