The COC ( Canadian Olympic Committee) has a new message Glory From Anywhere. I recently received a press release about this new campaign. Here is the message.
“The COC believes that glory is found in the hearts of those you inspire to change the world,” said Jacquie Ryan, COC’s Chief Brand and Commercial Officer. “We believe motivating generations of Canadians to create positive change is the most important thing we can do, and we began telling that story with our ‘Be Olympic’ brand platform that was launched in 2018. ‘Glory From Anywhere’ demonstrates that the potential for glory exists in all Canadians.
Jacquie Ryan
“This core message has taken on even greater significance in light of the pandemic. From the bravery and sacrifice of our frontline workers to the determination of Canadians just trying to get by, we are witnessing the power of resilience every day. Our hope is that Canadians will see themselves reflected in this campaign, and realize that glory isn’t restricted by age, history, experience, geography, sexual orientation or a birth certificate. The potential for glory is in all of us.”
Jacquie Ryan
One of the featured athletes is diver Jennifer Abel, Olympic bronze medalist, who has competed in four Olympics.
I started diving when I was five because of my brother, but as soon as I completed my first dive, I knew this was my sport,” recalled Abel. “I have learned over the years that the real goal in sport and in life is to become a better version of yourself. This is what I abide by every day. To me, that is what glory is and what I am embracing as I head to Tokyo to add to my personal best.”
Jennifer Abel.
Another featured athlete is basketball player Kia Nurse.
“Growing up as part of a family of athletes, I’ve learned that glory isn’t just what you do on the court, in the rink or on the field,” said Nurse. “It’s the way you carry yourself after a tough loss or a big win. I’m thrilled to be part of a campaign that both celebrates athletes who lean into these values and recognizes the inspiring Canadians who energize us in our pursuit of glory.”
Kia Nurse
Here is a list of the athletes featured in the Glory From Anywhere campaign.
- Jennifer Abel (Diving)
- Félix Auger-Aliassime (Tennis)
- Ellie Black (Artistic Gymnastics)
- Andre De Grasse (Athletics)
- Annie Guglia (Skateboard)
- Melissa Humana-Paredes and Sarah Pavan (Beach Volleyball)
- Kia Nurse (Basketball)
- Skylar Park (Taekwondo)
- Damian Warner (Athletics)
There are also three people who are not athletes but inspire others to Glory.
Shawn Morris (London, Ont.) decided to become a firefighter after watching the first responders during 9/11. He has spent his career putting his life on the line to save someone else’s. Guided by his desire to help others, Morris proves that glory isn’t only achieved on the podium but is happening all around us every day.
After surviving sexual assault as a teen, Miranda Kamal (Toronto, Ont.) began boxing to help her through the healing process. Years later, Kamal turned her grief into something incredibly powerful – a volunteer-run boxing gym designed to empower the powerless. By providing free classes for at-risk youth, Kamal proves that glory doesn’t always come in the form of a medal.
Lee Martin (Sarnia, Ont.) is an elementary school educator who goes above and beyond to teach his students the power of being a global citizen. His passion for change enables him to lead by example, whether it’s working with disadvantaged youth and communities in and around Thunder Bay or driving water and care packages from his class to Flint, Michigan. In 2018, he was recognized by Justin Trudeau and awarded the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in STEM. Today, Martin demonstrates as well as any Olympian that glory is born in the hearts of those you inspire to change the world.
Here is an excellent video showing us how Glory can come From Anywhere. It is only one minute. Take a minute and be inspired!
I train with Belinda Trussell who has ridden, in Dressage for Canada, in two Olympics. I know how much work goes into getting onto the Team and into the competition arena. I know how dedicated she is and how lucky I am to be able to train with her. Belinda also embodies the spirit of Glory From Anywhere.
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