Is the Verified Club Program available only to Clubs?

No. We recognize that racquetball is delivered in diverse ways across Canada. All clubs, facilities, associations, community groups, and organized raquetball groups in Canada are eligible to become Racquetball Canada Verified. Everyone is encouraged to join.

Why has Racquetball Canada Developed the Verified Club Program?

Racquetball Canada’s vision is to “Fully Utilize Canada’s courts with racquetball players”. Our four-year Strategic Plan, effective from 2024, includes a new pillar focused on building capacity across the country. The verification program supports this vision by creating a unified system and setting standards for delivering safe, welcoming programs. This structure helps us build new programs, improve existing ones, and boost participation in the sport.

What are the benefits of joining the Verified Club Program?

More and more, participants across Canada seek well-organized, safe, and accountable sport environments. Becoming verified with Racquetball Canada:

• Affirms your commitment to upholding standards of quality and excellence in racquetball including a fun and secure environment for participants;
• Boosts your organization’s credibility among players and enthusiasts, and with those who are looking for a new sport experience;
• Provides the organization with access to a wealth of materials including coaching materials, marketing support and specialized training programs;
• Increases your organization’s visibility by being recognized on Racquetball Canada’s website and through the promotion of the Verified Program;
• Provides an opportunity to connect with other verified clubs, coaches, players and organizations in ways that can enrich your organization’s activities.
• Provides access to grants, specialized training sessions and recognition for your club’s dedication and achievements.

My association is small and run only by volunteers. Can we still apply?

Absolutely. Small groups are encouraged apply for verification. The requirements are designed to focus on the quality of programming rather than the size of the organization. All organizations will benefit from the resources and recognition provided Racquetball Canada.

What is the timeline for applying?

Racquetball Canada has two intake deadlines and two confirmation dates for verified status each season.

July 15:  Application window closes (Intake 1)

August 15: Official confirmation of Verified Clubs (Intake 1)

December 1: Application window closes (Intake 2)

January 15: Official confirmation of Verified Clubs (Intake 2)

Is there an expiry date for verification?

Yes, organizations must apply annually. Verification is valid for one year from the date a club becomes officially recognized as verified (August 15 or January 15 of any calendar year).

How does the application process work?

Racquetball Canada has created an online site for organizations applying to the Verified Club Program. This site provides access to all necessary resources about how the sport operates in Canada, as well as the documents needed for completion and upload. Applicants can revisit the site to edit and add information until the application window closes. If any information requires clarification after the window closes, a member of the Racquetball Canada staff will contact you.

If your organization did not receive status as verified, you will be provided with specific information that will help with future applications. We encourage everyone to reapply.

Do organizations need to meet all criteria at the time of application?

Yes, but we understand that some criteria may take time to achieve. That is why we have developed a program that is flexible, with three entry levels and two intakes per year. We are committed to assisting you in meeting the best practices required for each level.

Who reviews the applications?

Racquetball Canada staff reviews all applications to ensure organizations meet the minimum standards for providing an inclusive, safe, and developmentally appropriate racquetball experience. A letter of endorsement from the Provincial Association is crucial for the application. Additionally, Provincial Associations may have their criteria for recognizing clubs or organizations, such as club membership.

How did Racquetball Canada determine the requirements for each level of the Verified Club Program?

Racquetball Canada, in consultation with the Provincial Associations, identified key elements that organizations should strive to achieve. These elements were balanced with the current status of the sport across Canada to determine the requirements of the verification program.

The program’s three levels offer flexibility, accommodating organizations at different stages of capacity building. The criteria range from minimum standards for an effective organization (3-star) to the standards of a well-developed organization (5-star), which we hope all organizations will strive to achieve.