National Gymnastics Safety Steering Committee

Our Committee

The National Gymnastics Safety Steering Committee was established to guide and oversee the development of a comprehensive national safety and safeguarding strategy for the sport of gymnastics in Canada. This strategy aims to ensure the safety and wellbeing of gymnasts, enabling the creation of a safe environment for all sport participants from grassroots to high performance.

Terms of ReferenceMessage from GymCan's CEO
Photo of a male gymnast from the back, wearing a red shirt and shorts with the number 102 on the back.

Safer and Stronger • Safer and Stronger • Safer and Stronger

Committee Members

Caitlyn Calder

Caitlyn Calder is Gymnastics Canada’s newly hired Safe Sport Project Manager; she holds a degree in Child and Youth Care and has extensive experience working with youth in various settings including child protection and not for profits.

Alexandra Castonguay

Alexandra Castonguay is the Director of Gymnastics Quebec’s communication and operations team; she has extensive knowledge in all facets of gymnastics.

Judi Fairholm

Judi Fairholm is an expert in safeguarding, blending strategic leadership with extensive operational experience to champion the protection of vulnerable populations worldwide.

Mark Mulatz

Mark Mulatz has had a distinguished career spanning over five decades in corporate and commercial law and brings over 40 years of experience providing counsel to sport organizations.

Alexandra Orlando

Alexandra Orlando is an Olympian in Rhythmic Gymnastics and brings invaluable insight from her elite sports experience.

Michelle Pothier

Michelle Pothier has owned and managed gymnastics clubs in multiple provinces; she is deeply committed to fostering safe, inclusive environments.

Kyle Shewfelt

Kyle Shewfelt is a three-time Olympian and the owner of Kyle Shewfelt Gymnastics, a recreational club dedicated to creating a fun and safe environment for all.

Strengthening Safety and Safeguarding Across Gymnastics in Canada

In May 2024, Gymnastics Canada established the National Safety Steering Committee to strengthen safety and safeguarding measures across the organization. Meeting regularly, the committee addresses safety gaps highlighted by our community, the McLaren Report, and experts in the field. The group brings together a diverse range of voices, including athletes, coaches, judges, provincial federation representatives, legal professionals, and safeguarding specialists, all contributing valuable perspectives.

Our immediate focus is on developing and launching Phase 1 of a comprehensive strategy to make GymCan Safer and Stronger. This initiative is designed to create a secure and supportive environment for all athletes, coaches, and participants.

Stay tuned as we unveil GymCan’s Safer & Stronger Safety Strategy in the months ahead!