McMaster Athletics & Recreation is proud to announce the launch of its 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, a department-wide roadmap designed to enhance lives through recreation, sport and belonging across campus and the broader community.

“At its core, this plan is about the people we serve and the experiences that help them thrive,” said Keenan Jeppesen, Director of Athletics & Recreation. “Whether someone is finding community through recreation, pursuing excellence in varsity sport, or simply looking for a welcoming place to gather and feel well, Athletics & Recreation plays a central role in shaping their sense of belonging. This strategic plan is our commitment to doing that work with intention, inclusivity, pride, and to being transparent with our community about the progress we make.”

Vision, mission and values
As a department, our vision is to enhance lives through recreation, sport and belonging. This is supported by our mission to create transformative experiences through sport & recreation that support growth, wellbeing and connection across our campus and community. Our work is guided by values that keep us people-centred and inclusive, and promote excellence, integrity, and pride.

“This strategic plan reflects the momentum and ambition of a department that continues to evolve alongside the needs of students and the campus,” said Sean Van Koughnett, Associate Vice-President, Students, at McMaster University.

“Athletics & Recreation is a powerful connector of people and a driver of holistic well-being on our campus. This forward-focused strategy will build on what’s working, identify opportunities for continued growth, and ensure its programs and spaces continue to strengthen the student experience and community impact for years to come.”

Five strategic pillars
The 2025–2030 Strategic Plan is organized around five pillars:
• Well-being for All – Promote holistic wellness and active living for the communities we serve
• Leader in Varsity Athletics – Champion comprehensive development to achieve competitive success
• Connected Communities – Build, strengthen and celebrate relationships within and beyond campus
• Exceptional Spaces – Maintain high-quality facilities that enhance user experience and accessibility
• Operational Excellence – Strengthen sustainability, culture, and continuous improvement

What comes next
As units across Athletics & Recreation move into implementation, detailed unit-level goals and KPIs are being developed and refined.

To keep the community informed, Athletics & Recreation will provide bi-annual strategic plan updates each year in May and December, sharing progress, highlights, and key outcomes as implementation advances.

The 2025–2030 Strategic Plan is available on active.mcmaster.ca/strategic-planning.

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Built by the McMaster Outdoor Club, the launch has already been used by Mac students and local community organizations.

By Caelan Beard | October 9, 2025

Paddling in Paradise is more accessible to McMaster and Hamilton than ever before – thanks to a new canoe launch built by the McMaster Outdoor Club.  

Located on the lower campus, near the McMaster helipad, the launch point gives canoe access to Ancaster Creek and Cootes Paradise.  

“McMaster is so lucky to be on Cootes. That’s such an amazing natural ecosystem,” said Erika Javornik, club president and fourth-year civil engineering student.  

The student-run McMaster Outdoor Club, which is housed under Athletics and Recreation, offers a variety of weekly trips, social events and environmental initiatives to get people of all experience levels outdoors. They offer a membership program, but anyone can sign up for individual events. The club estimates they serve over 1,000 students per school year. 

The idea for the canoe launch came from discussing the creek that runs through McMaster’s own campus, and opportunities to build something that wouldn’t be used by just the club, but the broader McMaster and Hamilton community, as well.  

Construction of the launch started last fall, with students clearing out several invasive plant species blocking the path to the water. The main part of the building phase took place in April, with 29 student volunteers from the club working whenever they had study breaks during exam season.  

“It was very muddy when we built it,” Javornik said. “We had eight-hour work days and people stayed through the whole thing.”   

But it was a really fun project, Javornik said. “I think a lot of people enjoyed the building of it… and being part of something that will hopefully continue for years and years, and benefit so many people.”  

The launch is designed to accommodate seasonal changes in water levels. The last few steps are meshed in gravel, and the railing stops a few feet before the water, so that they can still put canoes in when water levels change at different times of the year.  

In addition to the launch, the club also built a nearby canoe compound to house its 11 canoes, many paddles and lifejackets.  

The bulk of the project’s funding came from the club’s 10-year-reserve, as well as a $25,000 donation from the Patrick J McNally Charitable Foundation. They also received funding from the Office of the President through the Nature at McMaster project.  

Get on the water

Use of the launch started this summer, with Nature at Mac, McMaster summer camps and many community organizations using it for close-to-home afternoon paddles in Cootes Paradise.  

The wider campus has also been making use of the launch and their fleet of canoes – with various student groups, faculty groups, sports teams, and even a biology class booked for canoe sessions.  

“It’s rewarding seeing someone who’s never done anything like this before do it for the first time and just absolutely fall in love,” said Noah Stegman, club advisor and third-year PhD student in the School of Earth, Environment and Society. “Which is pretty common.” 

For the club, it also offers exciting new streams of income. “It just opens up so many amazing opportunities for us to get more people outside, and put it back into ways that we can reach more people and do more fun stuff.”  

That includes running afternoon canoe trips twice a week this fall — all McMaster students are welcome to sign up.  

The launch is a great access point, and beginner friendly. The first section sends paddlers down the small creek, surrounded by trees. Boats are protected from the wind, and it lets people get practice paddling before they reach the open water of Cootes: 320 hectares of marshland and a Nationally Important Bird Area where you can spot thriving populations of Trumpeter swans, great blue herons, double-crested cormorants and more.  

“It’s paradise,” said Javornik. 

They’ve seen everyone from absolute beginners to advanced paddlers. “Canoeing is a heritage activity for Canada,” said Stegman, but “most Canadians have never been canoeing and we’re seeking to change that.” 

Getting out on the water gives people a chance to take a break from a busy school day, make friends, and get closer to nature. Javornik hopes it also helps to foster a desire to take care of and appreciate the environment.  

“We’re looking to bring people out to experience Cootes,” said Stegman. “It’s a world biosphere, nationally important for lots of different species. We’re trying to show people what we’ve got in Hamilton.”  

by Jay Barlett

HAMILTON, Ont. — McMaster University’s Pulse Fitness Centre and The Hub (Student Activity Building) have received international acclaim, earning a 2025 NIRSA Outstanding Facilities Award and a coveted spot in Athletic Business magazine’s Architectural Showcase.

The Pulse is one of the largest fitness centres at a Canadian university, offering more than 60,000 square feet of active space. It features cutting-edge cardio and strength equipment, two fitness studios, a cycling studio, a 30-foot climbing wall and bouldering section, a womens’s-only gym and studio, and extensive accessibility features, including universal equipment and programs designed for users of all abilities. The facility is staffed by certified personal trainers and offers a robust schedule of drop-in group fitness classes to support the health and wellbeing of the McMaster community.

The NIRSA award, presented annually by NIRSA: Leaders in Collegiate Recreation, recognizes excellence in recreation facility design across North America. Judging criteria include campus impact, architectural aesthetics, sustainability, innovative materials and technology, and integration into programming and staffing.

“This recognition is an incredible honour and a proud moment for our entire team,” said Lee‑Anne Wilson, Manager, Fitness & Wellbeing, who has been integral to the project – from planning to procurement to now operating the state-of-the-art facility. “It reflects the vision and hard work of so many team members who helped bring these spaces to life.”

Designed by MJMA Architecture & Design, the $31‑million expansion  added The Hub and reimagined The Pulse Fitness Centre to add nearly 20,000 square feet of new active space. Upgrades include cutting edge fitness equipment, flexible studios and enhanced social zones designed to foster connection and wellbeing on campus.

“This project has truly transformed the student recreation experience at McMaster,” said Trish Chant‑Sehl, Associate Director, Recreation & Healthy Living. “Our goal was to create spaces that feel inclusive, inspiring and supportive of both physical and mental health. The result is a space where all students feel welcome, supported, inspired, and empowered to thrive.”

“To see the Pulse and The Hub recognized on this scale is incredibly rewarding and reflects the impact these facilities are already having on campus life, and is a testament to the unwavering commitment by our staff to always have our students’ needs at the heart of every decision.”

The recognition reinforces McMaster’s commitment to advancing student health and wellbeing and supporting holistic wellness across campus.

“What fills us with the most joy is seeing how much our students love the space,” added Wilson. “It’s not just a place to work out, but a vibrant hub where people connect, build friendships, and support each other’s well-being. It’s truly become one of the most energizing places on campus.”

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For more information about The Pulse Fitness Centre or programming, visit https://active.mcmaster.ca/recreation/pulse-fitness-centre/

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McMaster University will observe Canada Day on Tuesday, July 1, with all Athletics & Recreation facilities closed and all programming cancelled.

Additionally, the university has declared Monday, June 30 a university holiday. While most Athletics & Recreation spaces will also be closed, select facilities will remain open to support key programming.

June 30 – OPEN:

• McMaster Camps (First Day of Summer Camp)
• David Braley Sport Medicine & Rehabilitation Centre (by appointment only)
• External Facility Rentals

June 30 – CLOSED:

• David Braley Athletic Centre
• The Pulse Fitness Centre
• Climbing Gym
• IWC Pool
• Gyms and Studios
• Outdoor Fields
• All drop-in sports, group fitness, cycling, and instructional classes

July 1 – ALL ATHLETICS & RECREATION FACILITIES CLOSED

All facilities and programs will resume regular operations on Wednesday, July 2.

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, Ont. – Women’s volleyball assistant coach Tim Louks was honoured on Wednesday evening at the 2025 OUA Honours Awards Show, receiving the prestigious John McManus Award. This award recognizes a recently retired OUA coach who has exemplified the highest ideals of sportsmanship and service throughout their university coaching career.

Tim Louks‘ association with McMaster University spans nearly five decades. He began as a standout student-athlete in 1978, earning MVP honours twice before transitioning into coaching and beginning to shape the future of McMaster volleyball. Louks initially led the men’s volleyball team before stepping into his iconic role as Head Coach of the women’s program in 1989.

Over 37 seasons, he built McMaster Women’s Volleyball into a nationally respected program and became a symbol of dedication and excellence in Canadian university sport. Louks guided McMaster to its first-ever OUA Quigley Cup Championship in 2007–08, adding titles again in 2013–14,  2016–17,  and as an Assistant Coach during the 2023-24 season. He also played an instrumental role in the success of the 2012 and 2024 U SPORTS National Championships hosted by McMaster. Known for his tireless work ethic, strategic mind, and deep commitment to the growth of student-athletes, Louks has left a lasting impact on both McMaster and the wider volleyball community.

Even in retirement from full-time coaching and administrative roles, Louks remains committed to supporting the team as an assistant coach, ensuring his influence endures for years to come.Thank you for the legacy, Coach. Enjoy retirement!

Enhanced user experience and accessibility at the forefront of the redesign

May 1, 2025 – McMaster University’s Department of Athletics & Recreation has launched a brand-new website, active.mcmaster.ca, designed to deliver a more seamless, accessible, and user-focused experience for students, staff, faculty, and the broader community.

Replacing the previous rec.mcmaster.ca domain, the new site reflects a modernized look that aligns with McMaster’s ‘Brighter World’ visual brand identity and reaffirms the department’s commitment to inclusive excellence. With improved navigation, enhanced mobile responsiveness, and updated content architecture, active.mcmaster.ca makes it easier than ever to find information about the diverse programs and services within the Department of Athletics & Recreation such as the Pulse Fitness Centre, aquatics, memberships, facility rentals, intramural sports, outdoor recreation, and more.

“This redesign wasn’t just about updating our look,” said Trish Chant-Sehl, Associate Director, Recreation & Healthy Living, “It was about creating a digital space that is accessible to all, intuitive to navigate, and reflective of our commitment to community wellbeing and inclusive excellence.”

The site now serves as the departmental hub for Athletics & Recreation, while still recognizing the specialized needs of other audiences. marauders.ca remains the go-to destination for varsity athletics content, including team rosters, game schedules, scores, and news. Meanwhile, sportmed.mcmaster.ca has been launched as the new dedicated website for the David Braley Sport Medicine & Rehabilitation Centre.

Whether users are looking to learn more about facilities or programming, join an intramural league, explore outdoor recreation offerings, or learn about equity-driven initiatives within the department, active.mcmaster.ca brings it all together in one accessible and streamlined experience.

The new site is now live and available for all users at active.mcmaster.ca.

Looking for early drop-off or pick-up? Extended care is available for all of our day-camps!

All camps extended care will be located in Smith Gym in both the AM and PM.

AM: 7:30am to 8:30am
PM: 4:30pm to 5:30pm

Weekly Extended Care Fees

• AM (7:30am-8:30am) Fee: $20 per 5 day week / $16 per 4 day week
• PM (4:30pm-5:30pm) Fee: $20 per 5 day week / $16 per 4 day week

How to Register for Extended Care

Extended Care is included as an option during online registration:

• First select your camp session
• Then select the Extended Care week(s) required
• NEW in 2025, be sure to select AM and/or PM depending on your needs!

Need to register after the fact? Contact us to make changes prior to camp:

• Email: reconline@mcmaster.ca
• Phone: 905-525-9140 x24464

Frequently Asked Extended Care Questions

• Can I register for a partial week?
  • Campers need not attend every day, however there are no partial week refunds.
• How does my camper get to and from their camp and extended care? 
  • Camp staff will escort campers between their camp’s home base and Extended Care each morning and afternoon.
• What programming is there at Extended Care? 
  • General supervision is provided, and campers are offered a choice of the ‘quiet zone’ or ‘play zone’ depending on their mood at the end of the day. There are no structured activities during extended care.
• Is there 1:1 Support during Extended Care?
  • There is no 1:1 Support offered during extended care. There are staff onsite that provide general group supervision.
• Do I need to register for both AM and PM Extended Care if I need both? 
  • NEW in 2025, you will need to select AM and PM Extended Care if you require both. 

Available now for all ages and skill levels, featuring world-class technology used by PGA pros.

McMaster’s Department of Athletics & Recreation has officially opened a Full Swing Golf Simulator inside the David Braley Athletic Centre (DBAC), bringing professional-grade technology and multi-sport fun to campus for students, staff, and the general public.

This isn’t your average sim — Full Swing is trusted by some of the biggest names in golf, including Tiger Woods, Jon Rahm, and Jordan Spieth. It’s also the licensed simulator of the PGA Tour and the official simulator partner of TGL, the tech-infused simulator golf league launched by Woods and Rory McIlroy.

Golfers can tee off on a curated library of over 50 championship courses, including TPC Sawgrass, Pebble Beach, St Andrews, Torrey Pines, and more — all rendered in stunning 4K detail for unmatched accuracy and feedback. Whether you’re working on your swing or playing a full round with friends, the experience is immersive, responsive, and beginner-friendly.

But golf is just the beginning. The simulator also includes arcade-style multisport games — perfect for casual users, families, and group play. Sports include:

• Soccer
• Football
• Basketball
• Baseball
• Lacrosse
• Rugby
• Zombie Dodgeball
  …and dozens more fun, interactive games for all ages.

Rental Details
The simulator is open to all skill levels and ages, and available to the general public.

• McMaster Athletics & Recreation Members: $25/hour
• Non-Members/Public: $45/hour

Balls and tees are provided. Bring your own clubs or rent a set from the Joan Buddle Service Desk ($5) inside DBAC.

How to Book
Reserve your time online at active.mcmaster.ca/golf-simulator or call (905) 525-9140 ext. 24612 for more information.

Whether you’re training like a pro or just looking for a fun indoor activity, the Full Swing Golf Simulator is ready to welcome you — rain, shine, or snow.

HAMILTON, ON — Julia Miller has been named the recipient of the 2024/25 LIVunLtd Fitness and Well-being Scholarship.

Valued at $3,000, the award recognizes an undergraduate student who demonstrates leadership in wellness and healthy living while making a meaningful impact on the McMaster community.

A fourth-year Honours Bachelor of Arts student in Classics, Miller leaves behind a legacy of compassion, inclusion, and leadership within McMaster’s Department of Athletics & Recreation. From day one, she has been a driving force in shaping a more welcoming, supportive, and empowering recreation environment for students, staff, and visitors alike.

Her journey began at The Pulse Fitness Centre, where she served as both Support Staff and a social media content creator. Her leadership only expanded from there. Through her work with Outdoor Recreation, McMaster Camps, and the Sport Medicine & Rehabilitation Clinic, Miller’s reach touched nearly every corner of the Recreation portfolio, including as President of the McMaster Student Recreation Council.

The LIVunLtd Fitness and Well-being Scholarship is made possible through the support of LIVunLtd Fitness Equipment, a premier provider of state-of-the-art commercial fitness solutions. A valued partner in McMaster’s commitment to student health and wellness, LIVunLtd continues to invest in the next generation of leaders who are passionate about building inclusive, active communities.

Among Miller’s proudest memories is a moment coaching at the climbing gym, when she noticed a young boy with a cast left out of the action. “I grabbed a beach ball and started a game,” she said. “Soon, he was smiling, laughing, surrounded by new friends. That moment reminded me that leadership is often about noticing the small things and responding with heart.”

“Julia Miller exemplifies what the LIVunLtd Scholarship is all about,” said Trish Chant-Sehl, Associate Director of Recreation and Healthy Living. “She has spent her time at McMaster working tirelessly to engage students and community in healthy, active living while being a powerful advocate for accessibility and inclusion. Congratulations, Julia, on this well-deserved accomplishment!”

As she prepares to graduate, Miller hopes to be remembered not just for what she accomplished, but how she made people feel. “My greatest achievement is knowing I helped bring a smile to someone’s day. Every day.”

Regular hours and programming will resume on Saturday, April 19 and Monday, April 21.