Posted: May 9, 2007

Athletics: Earl Church named Head-Coach of Para-Athletics

OTTAWA – Athletics Canada is pleased to announce that Dr. Earl Church from Welland, ON has been named Athletics Canada Head-Coach of Para-Athletics. The naming of Dr. Church to the position sees Jean Laroche transition to a high performance coaching position based in Sherbrooke, QC. “Athletics Canada is delighted to be able to count on an individual of Earl’s caliber to head our Paralympic program as we head towards the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing. Earl will face many challenges given the increasing competitive landscape on the international Para-athletics scene, but he brings wisdom and experience, qualities that will help Athletics Canada reach its stated objectives.” Martin Goulet, Chief High Performance Officer. Dr. Earl Church is a Chartered Professional Coach as recognized by the Coaching Association of Canada and holds a level 4 NCCP. He earned his Doctorate in Physical Education at Springfield College in the United States. He serves on the board of the Coaching Association of Ontario, and is a member of the Canadian Olympic Academy and the International Olympic Academy. Earl was Head Coach at the 1996 Paralympic Games in Atlanta and the 2000 Paralympics in Sydney, as well as at the 1994, 1998 and 2002 IPC World Championships. His accomplishments include the Ron Foster Award for his contributions to Canadian athletes with a disability and the Queens Golden Jubilee Medal for his significant contributions to Canada. Earl Church, newly appointed Para-athletics Head Coach; "I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute as Para-athletics Head Coach. I am aware of the challenges, particularly relating to the timing of the Paralympic Games scheduled for September 2008." Dr. Church officially begins his duties on June 1st 2007. Athletics Canada is the national sport governing body for the sport of track and field including cross-country running and road running.