A year can sometimes quickly go by! Especially when the context of the life changes as it means that one has to adapt and face to uncertainty. It generates an increase of the workload and stress as well as physical and mental disruptions. As the society, AIESEP had to deal with the constraints to pursuit its missions: (1) to empower a global community of professionals in the areas of sport pedagogy and physical education through the dissemination of high quality, relevant research; (2) to nurture scholarly talent through leadership development and building an innovative and inclusive community; (3) to lead collective action to promote effective physical and health education, physical activity and sport participation across the lifespan. Thanks to the organizers of the 2021 AIESEP International Conference in Banff (CAN), that event turned to the first online conference AIESEP proposed in its history. Despite different time zones, scholars from all over the world attended to the activities and were able to share their knowledge and expertise. Such international connection was also kept with the #AIESEP Connect webinars that gathered participants from all continents and by the participation of the AIESEP Board members to several international networks. Moreover, the AIESEP blogs and other social media proposed regular information open to the whole community. One has also to underline the effectiveness of the two AIESEP special interest group (TGfU and Early Years) who produced particularly interesting publications. Finally, 2021 was also the year of important changes on the AIESEP constitution that was finalized through members’ consultation. The new statutes will be validated in 2022.
2022 will be a special year, as it will correspond to the 60th anniversary of the association, funded in 1962 in Lisbon, Portugal. During the whole year, several activities will be implemented to celebrate that event. Be ready to join us in these celebrations with a particular appointment, in June, with the 2022 AIESEP World Congress organized in Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a hybrid version will allow all scholars to join that key rendezvous during which the election of the new Board will be organized, online. Submit your abstract by 21 January 2022.
As underlined above, 2022 will be full of opportunities to enjoy AIESEP activities! On behalf of the Board of Directors, it is my pleasure to wish you a year fully loaded with Health, Happiness, and Serenity.
Prof. hon. Marc Cloes
President of AIESEP
