Part 4: Path to the Inaugural World Championships and Olympic Games
Becoming the first and only recognized national body for the sport of cornhole in Canada is indeed a significant achievement and positions Cornhole Canada as a key player in the global cornhole community. While the path to the Olympics is complex and involves various factors, having a recognized national body is a crucial step. Here’s how this recognition will contribute to the journey toward the World Championships and, eventually, the Olympics:
- Global Representation: Recognition as the official national body establishes Cornhole Canada as the representative authority for the sport in the country. This recognition shall lead to acknowledgment and collaboration with international cornhole organizations, which is essential for participating in global events. At this point there are very few registered international cornhole organizations.
- Established Credibility: Being the first and only recognized national body lends credibility to Cornhole Canada. This credibility will be recognized by international governing bodies and organizers.
- Standardization and Compliance: International sports events, especially those leading to the Olympics, require standardization in rules, regulations, and governance. By being the recognized authority, Cornhole Canada contributes to the standardization of the sport, and fulfills all its requirements for participation in global competitions. With our sport being relatively new, most countries do not have required standardization in rules, regulations, and governance. We will lead the way.
- Networking Opportunities: Recognition as the official governing body opens doors to networking opportunities with international organizations involved in cornhole. This networking can facilitate communication and collaboration when it comes to establishing global standards, including the organization of world championships.
- Experience and Expertise: Cornhole Canada, as the pioneering national body, is gaining accumulate experience and expertise in organizing successful national championships. This experience positions the organization well to take on larger-scale events, such as world championships, ensuring a smooth and well-executed competition.
- Representation of Canadian Talent: Cornhole Canada can work on developing a strong pipeline of talented athletes through grassroots programs and organized competitions. This is crucial for sustained success in international competitions, including the Olympics. With exclusive recognition, Cornhole Canada is responsible for identifying and showcasing the top cornhole talent in Canada. This becomes a valuable asset when world championships are being organized.
- Support from Government and Partners: Recognition as the official national body shall attract support from the Canadian government and potential sponsors. This support can be crucial in the bid to participate in or host world championships, as it demonstrates a collective effort to promote and develop the sport.
- Precedent for International Involvement: Being the first recognized national body sets a precedent for Canada’s involvement in international cornhole competitions. This precedent can work in favor of Cornhole Canada when discussions about participation in world championships take place.
While the path to the Olympics involves multiple stages, including recognition by international sports bodies, adherence to Olympic values, and widespread global participation, having a recognized national body is a foundational step in the right direction. It provides a solid platform for Cornhole Canada to actively participate in the global cornhole community and work towards the goal of inclusion in prestigious events like the Olympics. In conclusion, being the first and only recognized national body for cornhole in Canada establishes Cornhole Canada as a key player in the global cornhole community. This recognition not only enhances the credibility of the organization but also positions it favorably for potential involvement in the first-ever world championships when they are established.