Tyler Belanger’s passion for sport and his commitment to youth development have made a lasting impact on our community.
As the founder and owner of Rebel Gym, Belanger dedicates himself to empowering athletes of all ages and abilities, creating a foundation for resilience, strength and mental toughness.
Since opening Rebel Gym in 2019, Belanger has worked with a wide range of athletes from young children just beginning their athletic journeys to professional teams and college athletes.
His programs, which include ninja and obstacle training for kids as young as two and strength training for youth starting at age nine, have become pillars of athletic development in Sault Ste. Marie.
“I created Rebel Ninja to help our community - and especially our youth - to see obstacles as challenges to overcome, rather than things they can’t do,” Belanger shared. His focus on building both physical and mental resilience is at the core of everything he does.
Belanger was both humbled and energized when he learned he had won the Community Builders Award in the Sports and Recreation category.
“We never do things to win awards but this will allow me to meet new people and create new networks that could grow the same passion and help us move in the direction we want,” he reflected. "It’s a reminder that even when you feel alone in your mission others recognize the impact you’re making."
Beyond the gym, Tyler lends his expertise to Sault College as a strength and conditioning coach and is working with the Algoma Thunderbirds for the upcoming seasons.
His contributions have already made an impact helping athletes develop power, strength and resilience to achieve extraordinary results including guiding a college hockey team from an injury-filled season to a Division 2 National Championship with no non-contact injuries.
Belanger’s work extends beyond his immediate community.
He has collaborated with professional teams including athletes from the American Ninja Warrior, professional basketball, curling, football teams and even NCAA Division 1 athletes.
Through these connections, he continues to build on his mission of providing comprehensive long-term athletic development for all.
“We have some plans to grow our programming and increase opportunities for athletic development in our community,” Belanger said regarding the future of Rebel Gym.
He believes that everyone, no matter their age or ability, should have access to the resources they need to become stronger both mentally and physically.
His commitment to building resilience and confidence in youth athletes is not only shaping the future of sports in Sault Ste. Marie, but also creating a positive lasting impact that will benefit the entire community for years to come.
The Sports and Recreation Award is presented to an individual or group who has contributed to the strength of a sport in the community, by way of inspiring people, establishing a program, mentoring a team or individual to extraordinary accomplishments or setting an example for others to carry.
Congratulations, Tyler!
This award is proudly sponsored by United Steelworkers 2251.