TORONTO, Nov. 21, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), today announced the Government of Canada's 2012-2013 contribution to Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS). The announcement was made at the CIS All Canadian Awards Banquet in advance of the Vanier Cup Championship, to be held in Toronto on November 23, 2012.

"The Harper Government's support will help Canadian Interuniversity Sport maintain its commitment to more than 700 coaches and 11,000 student-athletes from 54 universities that compete in university sports across Canada every year," said Minister of State Gosal. "University sports have a rich history in Canada, and we are proud to help ensure that legacy continues for years to come."

"We are delighted and very appreciative of the Government of Canada's recently announced funding for Canadian Interuniversity Sport," said Leo MacPherson, President of Canadian Interuniversity Sport and Director of Athletics, St. Francis Xavier University. "This essential support is critical as we move forward with plans to become a force within the Canadian sport scene and inspire a nation of future leaders."

Canadian Interuniversity Sport is the national governing body of university sport in Canada. CIS also provides high-performance international opportunities for Canadian student-athletes at Winter and Summer Universiades, as well as numerous world university championships.

The Government of Canada is the single largest contributor to sport in Canada and supports participation and excellence from the playground to the podium. The Government of Canada, through the Sport Support Program, is providing approximately $804,000 for 2012-2013 to Canadian Interuniversity Sport. This funding will enable CIS to effectively deliver its national championships for the year, as well as cover travel costs for student-athletes, coaches, event management personnel, and officials participating in national championships. 

SOURCE Canadian Heritage