Cochrane has officially opened Alberta’s first accessible multi-sport Jumpstart Court made possible through a partnership between Jumpstart Charities and the Town of Cochrane.
The new play space is designed to eliminate physical and social barriers to sport, ensuring children of all abilities can enjoy inclusive, shared spaces. It offers barrier-free access, enhanced visibility, and accommodates both accessible and traditional sports such as basketball, sitting volleyball, pickleball, and wheelchair tennis.
Located behind the SLS Centre, the multi-sport court is now open for free drop-in use Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays and statutory holidays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Robert Hatch, owner of Cochrane’s Canadian Tire store and a founding director of Jumpstart when it launched 20 years ago, said the charity has long focused on breaking down barriers to allow youth to participate in sport.
“It really did start with a single kid,” said Hatch. “We talked about all the big numbers and helping millions of families, which is wonderful, but in the end, it really does begin with one child. When you get a child involved and see their smiling face, good things happen from there.”
Stuart McReynolds, associate vice-president of programs and advocacy with Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, emceed the opening and said more than four million youth have been supported over the past two decades.
“Today we get to experience the impact of sport and play by coming together to unveil the Jumpstart Multi-Sport Court in Cochrane,” said McReynolds. “This new space represents an opportunity for kids of all abilities to get active through the sports and recreation they love.”
Cochrane Mayor Jeff Genung praised Jumpstart for its continued impact on the community.
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He said the court isn’t solely about sport—it’s about access, inclusion and community connection.
“Thanks to Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, we now have a free drop-in space available to all residents where kids of all abilities can come together to play, compete and grow,” said Genung. “This Jumpstart project is the first of its kind in Alberta, right here in Cochrane, with only five other inclusive multi-sport courts across Canada.
“In Cochrane, we talk a lot about building for the future. Investment in this court is part of that future—a space that is truly for everyone and designed to remove both physical and social barriers. This space was made possible because of our community and our community’s heart.”
The opening celebration included a Jumpstart Games event to mark the charity’s 20th anniversary and to recognize Cochrane’s fundraising efforts during Jumpstart Month in June 2024. Kids from local summer programs took part in a day of play that focused on physical activity, teamwork and connection.
