Youth 12 and up require vaccination proof to play organized sport

OTTAWA – Starting Dec. 20, provincial regulations will require youth, ages 12 to 17, to show proof of vaccination and valid identification to access city indoor recreation and cultural facilities for all activities, including organized sports.

“Youth participating in organized sports were previously exempt from showing proof of vaccination,” city staff released in a statement today (Dec. 17). “As of Monday (Dec. 20), the only people not required to show proof of vaccination are those age 11 and under and those who have a documented medical exemption. For youth who turn 12 in 2022, there is a grace period of 12 weeks from their birthday when they do not need to show proof of vaccination.”

Starting Jan. 4, provincial regulations will also require all residents, age 12 years and older, to use Ontario’s enhanced vaccine certificate with QR code to show proof of vaccination. The certificate can be shown on either their hand-held device or printout, to access city recreation and cultural facilities. Those with a medical exemption will also need to use the QR code certificate as of Jan. 10.

People from outside Ontario must follow the Province of Ontario’s instructions on providing their proof of vaccination. Valid identification must show a participant’s name and date of birth and have been issued by an institution or public body. Photo identification is not required, and the identification does not need to be government-issued.