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Beyond the scoreboard: how sports are helping young Canadians navigate mental health

A young Canadian athlete shares how sport has improved their mental health, and an expert also weighs in on the matter

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Vasil Papadopoulosi is Toronto-based university student who has used competitive soccer as a tool to manage stress and anxiety throughout his life.

He spoke to the Toronto Observer about his emotional well-being is tied to his performance on the field and how playing soccer — whether in games or simply shooting alone in his backyard — offers him a sense of relief and clarity.

Sports psychologist, Nicholas Santino, explains how sports expose individuals to stress in a safe, structured way that can help build resilience for Canadian youth.

Watch: How sports are helping young Canadians navigate mental health


This video is part of the Toronto Observer’s Our Canada feature package. Check out more stories and videos.

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