Articles from:March 2025

• Returning astronauts face accelerated bone, muscle deterioration, says Brock expert

  Monday, March 17, 2025 | By Brock University

  EXPERT ADVISORY  – March 17, 2025 – R0035

  With US astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams set to return to Earth this week, Brock University Associate Professor of Kinesiology Val Fajardo says their first steps back on the planet might be a bit rough.

  “Regarding long-duration spaceflight, we know that there will be decrements to musculoskeletal health, including bone and muscle deterioration due to microgravity exposure,” he says.

  Fajardo is a nationally recognized expert on muscles. As Canada Research Chair in Tissue Remodelling and Plasticity throughout the Lifespan, he studies physiological processes that fuel muscle development or decline, including the impacts of exercise and good nutrition on muscle strength.

  He and his team have also received samples and/or funding from NASA and the Canadian Space Agency to study ways to prevent astronauts from experiencing bone fragility, cognitive decline, and muscle loss and weakness, which occur when spending time in space.

  Their research has mainly focused on studying tissue samples from mice that spent time on the International Space Station (ISS), which is where NASA astronauts Wilmore and Williams are stationed.

  Fajardo says rodents and humans lose muscle and bone density and strength at a much faster rate in space than they do on Earth because of reduced gravity, which quickly leads to deterioration or atrophy.

  The NASA astronauts in question — who were only intended to be aboard the ISS for eight days — have been in space for more than nine months.

  Fajardo and his teams’ research provides some valuable insight as to what Wilmore and Williams can expect when they disembark the craft.

  “The declines in muscle health and function contribute to a reduction in overall aerobic fitness, which some estimate could be equivalent to decades worth of aging here on Earth,” says Fajardo.

  “This is why exercise is essential in space; however, research has shown that this alone is not sufficient,” he says. “We need to develop adjuvant therapies if we wish to engage in long-duration spaceflight missions like those to the moon and Mars.”

  Associate Professor of Kinesiology Val Fajardo is available for media interviews on this topic.

  For more information or for assistance arranging interviews:

  *Sarah Ackles, Communications Specialist, Brock University [email protected] or 289-241-5483

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  Categories: Media releases

• Brock’s Master of Sport Management a game-changer for industry

  Thursday, March 13, 2025 | By Brock University

  MEDIA RELEASE – March 13, 2025 – R0034

  With its graduates leading the way at major sport organizations across the country and beyond, Brock University is further stepping up its game in the field of sport management.

  The University is launching a Master of Sport Management (MSM) program that builds on the success of its undergraduate offerings as well as the research and academic strengths of the Sport Management department.

  Set to welcome its first cohort this September, the 12-month graduate program will equip the next generation of sport leaders with the practical skills and professional knowledge needed to thrive in the industry.

  Featuring courses from both the Faculty of Applied Health Sciences (FAHS) and the Goodman School of Business (GSB), the program blends sport management and business strategy, with a specific focus on developing data-driven decision-making, sports analytics and strategic development.

  “The Master of Sport Management program is designed to give students the tools they need to lead in the data-driven world of sport,” says Peter Tiidus, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Health Sciences. “By combining sport-specific expertise with business management principles, we’re setting our graduates up for success in an increasingly competitive industry.”

  Designed to meet the growing demand for professionals who can navigate the rapidly evolving sports sector, the MSM focuses on developing a balance of business and sports management competencies.

  A key feature of the program is its practical approach, which will give students hands-on experience in sport management settings. Students will work with industry partners across Canada, ensuring they’re prepared with the skills needed to succeed right out of the gate.

  “The addition of a practicum is what really sets this program apart,” says Nicholas Burton, MSM Graduate Program Director and Associate Professor in the Department of Sport Management. “Students will have the opportunity to collaborate with leading sport organizations, where they can put theory into practice and gain valuable industry experience. It’s a win-win for both the students and the organizations they work with.”

  This graduate program also reflects Brock’s interdisciplinary approach, offering students access to courses from both Applied Health Sciences and the Goodman School of Business. By merging the fields of sport management and business, students will gain a competitive edge that will set them apart in the industry, Burton says.

  As the sector continues to evolve, the MSM is positioned to be a key player in shaping the future of sport management education.

  “The MSM program is our next step in Brock’s long history of sport education,” Tiidus says. “It will equip students with the knowledge and competencies they need to be at the top of their game, whether analyzing data to make crucial decisions, leading teams or driving innovation in sport.”

  Applications for the Master of Sport Management are now open, with a first-round application deadline of April 30. For more information, visit the MSM program website.

  For more information or for assistance arranging interviews:

  *Sarah Ackles, Communications Specialist, Brock University [email protected] or 289-241-5483

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  Categories: Media releases