Calgary-based cricket coach Hamza Tariq is bringing his international experience to the next generation of players after being named captain of Canada’s national cricket team. Tariq also coaches with The City of Calgary’s Sport Hub program, where he helps introduce young people to cricket and encourages them to continue playing. “The impact of quality coaching is immense, and I think it’s non-negotiable,” Tariq said. He joined the program years ago, coaching cricket as part of its pilot project at Crossing Park School in Martindale. During that time, he saw how students became increasingly interested in the sport and began asking how they could continue playing after the program ended. That experience motivated him to help connect more young people with sports organizations and opportunities to continue developing their skills. Sport Hub connects Calgary children and teens with different sports and recreation activities led by qualified coaches from local sports organizations. The city brings the program into schools and communities, providing equipment and offering free or low-cost lessons to help make sports more accessible. “A child’s first experience with a sport can shape whether they want to keep playing,” said Brett Whittingham, recreation programs leader. “That’s why the coaches delivering Sport Hub programs matter. We want kids learning from people who know the sport and can make that first experience a positive one.” Tariq says he has seen the difference a positive coaching experience can make, particularly among children who may initially be hesitant to participate. For him, success isn’t necessarily about how skilled a young player becomes, but whether they enjoy the experience and want to keep playing. He hopes his work with Sport Hub will help more Calgary youth discover a passion for sports and find opportunities to pursue it.
