We are obviously less sensitive to what we don't see. However, we know that there are reactions following international championships or Olympic Games. Just think of the 1976 Olympic Games: tens and tens of Nadia Comanecis were born. In 2005, we had the aquatic championships: registration soared. If we cover a speed skating competition, what do you see in the clubs? An increase in registration for that discipline.
If we don't see or we don't cover a sport, we definitely lose significant impact. Seeing it frequently has an effect on practice and participation. Youths see it and identify with models. We regularly hear youths say they discovered a sport by seeing so and so play it. It is becoming extremely important to see athletes regularly. We can't rely on sponsorships to present these kinds of images. This responsibility belongs to a corporation like Radio-Canada.