DWARF ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION OF CANADA INC.

The Dwarf Athletic Association of Canada (DAAC) provides programs promoting health well-being and is designed to improve functioning and adjustment plus build self-esteem for people with dwarfism. Like other groups of disabled people many of the barriers and obstacles faced by individuals with dwarfism are put in place by society even before any of the potential medical complications of dwarfism are considered. DAAC's programming removes barriers and obstacles so people with dwarfism can participate in an equitable Inclusive and accessible environment. This includes children youth adults and seniors with dwarfism. DAAC’s charitable activities include maintaining health fitness or mobility and relieving isolation all in an environment accessible to individuals of short stature and their families. Our in-person event programming is always modified to account for changes in age physical ability and skill level to always be as inclusive as possible for the participants. Coaching and support are provided by screened volunteers and supervised by individuals certified under the Respect-In-Sport Leadership program. DAAC Team Canada uniforms are often worn by participants who have competed in previous World Dwarf Games providing positive role models and mentors for our at-risk community. This helped keep the team spirit high as we prepare for the 9th World Dwarf Games in 2027. In addition to our training and practice sessions preparing for the World Dwarf Games our Zoomer Boomer Healthy Ageing for Seniors program continued as well. It is often difficult for many average-height Individuals to understand the challenges a person with dwarfism faces. DAAC provides a safe space through recreation and sports for individuals with dwarfism and their families with the goal of providing social rehabilitation to those who may from time to time feel isolated and marginalized by living in an average-sized world.

In 2024 we were able to provide in-person activities when spring approached we facilitated and hosted eight multi-sport practices across the province of Ontario including basketball soccer badminton swimming track & field and archery. In addition to the life-skills portion of the summer sports series the sports practices and training sessions served as a tremendous framework and network for our upcoming endeavours in the summer of 2027 as we prepared for the World Dwarf Games (WDG). The experiences gained from these practices provided valuable insights enhanced skill development and fostered camaraderie among participants. This foundation undoubtedly proved invaluable as we competed in the WDG. We showcased the talent and spirit of Team Canada with pride. We are proud to be a part of this global community that shares a common mission and passion for promoting inclusivity and improving the quality of life through sports. For the first time we held a DAAC Sports Retreat Weekend in which we had families from across Canada join us for a weekend full with multi-sport practices including basketball soccer badminton and more. This helped build on our preparation for the next World Dwarf Games (WDG) well welcoming newcomers that will be a part of future growth.