C A N A D AÂ Â G A M E S
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| David Westwood is an associate professor of kinesiology in the School of Health and Human Performance. (Nick Pearce Photo) |
David Westwood is the go-guy for squash. As Sport Leader for the Canada Games, his job includes overseeing volunteers, keeping the events on schedule and acting as liaison between Squash Nova Scotia and Squash Canada.
“We’re the linchpin of the tournament,” he says. “It’s interesting to see the connections between the local, provincial and national organizations in athletic development. It’s exciting.”
Dr. Westwood’s interest in the sport began with his wife Camilla Holmvall, a Saint Mary’s University psychology professor and avid player of squash. Through their volunteer work with Squash Nova Scotia, Westwood became the president of the Dal Squash Club in July 2010.
The sport fits in well into Westwood’s work. His research in the Dalhousie Action Lab looks at how people improve upon hand-eye coordination. Dr. Westwood, a kinesiology professor, views the Canada Games as a welcome change for Halifax. “It’s good to host an event that promotes healthy living,” he says. “We have new facilities around the city, which can benefit the community.”
For young squash athletes, the Canada Games is the pinnacle event. Squash is not an Olympic sport or well known. The Games represents a chance for national talent to be showcased. “Athletes work for most of their lives to get to this point,” says Dr. Westwood. “It’s great to be a part of something to help others succeed.”
Dr. Westwood hopes his involvement in the Games will be a stepping stone working in sport administration. “Volunteering can be a burden but the positive work you do always has an impact,” he says. “I’m getting to experience something special.”
Dr. Westwood is documenting his Canada Games experience using "Cover it Live," a blogging/chat program.ĚýCheck it out .
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