The COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced access to career exploration opportunities for many youth, limiting their ability to make informed decisions about their education and future careers. The cancellation or reduction of internships, training programs, and hands-on learning experiences left many young people—particularly those from underserved communities—feeling disengaged, uncertain, and less motivated about their long-term goals.

For some youth, sport became the perceived sole pathway to success, often without the academic guidance or alternative career planning needed to sustain future opportunities.

These challenges disproportionately impacted Black youth. According to Statistics Canada (2020), Black males and females aged 13 to 17 in 2006 were less likely than their peers in the general population to hold a post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree by 2016. Additionally, young Black males were nearly twice as likely as other young males to be not in employment, education, or training (NEET) during that same period.

These disparities highlight a critical need for targeted, structured programming. By providing education-focused mentorship, career exploration, and academic support initiatives, organizations can help re-engage youth, expand awareness of post-secondary pathways, and create equitable access to opportunity beyond athletics alone.