4-time Olympic medallist Adam van Koeverden to oversee sport in PM Carney’s new cabinet

Adam van Koeverden, a Canadian kayak legend and three-time Member of Parliament, has been appointed as the Secretary of State for Sport in Prime Minister Mark Carney’s new cabinet. The 43-year-old from Toronto, who grew up in Oakville, Ont., was sworn in at Rideau Hall in Ottawa alongside 28 ministers and nine other secretaries of state.

Van Koeverden first entered the House of Commons in 2019 and secured his third term in the Burlington North-Milton West riding with a significant margin of 5,983 votes. His impressive track record as a four-time medallist at the Summer Olympics, including gold and bronze in Athens 2004, silver in Beijing 2008 and London 2012, has earned him recognition as a Canadian sports icon.

As a two-time flag-bearer for Canada at the Olympics, van Koeverden’s influence extends beyond the waters of the kayak course. His appointment as Secretary of State for Sport has been welcomed by the Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee, who believe his experience and passion for sport will bring a valuable perspective to Parliament.

With a focus on strengthening Canada’s sport system and advocating for the needs of Canadian athletes, van Koeverden’s role is crucial as the country gears up for major international sporting events like the Milan-Cortina Olympics and Paralympic Winter Games, as well as the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

The COC and CPC emphasized the unifying power of sports in Canada, transcending barriers of geography, language, and politics. They highlighted the role of sport in uniting Canadians and showcasing national pride on the global stage, pointing to the millions of viewers who tuned in to support Team Canada at past Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Van Koeverden’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Canadian sports, with Toronto and Vancouver set to host key matches during the FIFA World Cup. The government’s focus on leveraging the power of sports to drive positive change aligns with van Koeverden’s own commitment to promoting athleticism and excellence.

While the role of Secretary of State for Sport has undergone changes in past cabinets, the revival of this position under Carney’s leadership signals a renewed emphasis on the importance of sports in Canadian society. Van Koeverden and his fellow secretaries of state will play a junior role in the cabinet, but their contribution to advancing sports initiatives and supporting Canadian athletes is expected to be significant.

As van Koeverden steps into his new role, his legacy as a decorated Olympian and advocate for sports excellence will continue to inspire Canadians across the country. With a focus on unity, pride, and excellence, he is poised to make a lasting impact on the Canadian sports landscape.