About VanIsle Mind and Motion
Discover how Van Isle Mind & Motion is helping young athletes grow in North Cowichan, British Columbia. Our programs focus on supporting kids as they develop confidence, build athletic skills, and learn to enjoy being active both on and off the field.
About Us
Van Isle Mind & Motion was created through a shared passion for helping young athletes grow through sport, movement, and positive mentorship. Mark Harris and Kyle Peruniak bring a unique connection and coaching dynamic to the program, built on years of experience and a strong foundation of trust. Kyle was one of Mark’s high school basketball coaches, as well as a teacher, and played an important role in shaping Mark’s development as both an athlete and a person. That relationship has come full circle, and together they now share the goal of helping the next generation of athletes build confidence, develop skills, and enjoy being active.
With backgrounds in coaching, teaching, strength and conditioning, and athletic development, Mark and Kyle bring a well-rounded approach to every session. Their program is focused on creating a positive, supportive, and engaging environment where young athletes can improve physically, grow mentally, and build a strong foundation for future success in sport and in life.
Kyle Peruniak
Meet Your Coach
With more than a decade of experience teaching, coaching, and leading outdoor programs, I’m passionate about helping young people grow through sport and adventure. I’ve taught Physical and Health Education for grades 7–12, developed Outdoor Education programs, and coached a wide range of youth sports including basketball, mountain biking, wrestling, and cricket.
My background as an Athletic Director and youth sports coach has given me a strong foundation in leadership, mentorship, and program coordination. I’ve also had the privilege of working with inclusive organizations such as the Steve Nash/YMCA Youth Basketball League and Vancouver Adaptive Snow Sports, supporting diverse learners and youth with disabilities.
My teaching and coaching experiences extend internationally as well, with time spent working in India and Nepal. These opportunities strengthened my adaptability, cultural awareness, and commitment to creating positive, supportive environments where all young athletes can thrive.
Safety and skill development are at the heart of my programs. I bring extensive technical training—including certifications in first aid, wilderness response, canoeing, kayaking, avalanche safety, and mountain biking—to ensure every camp experience is both engaging and safe.
With academic studies in kinesiology, education, and environmental learning, I’m dedicated to helping youth build confidence, develop lifelong skills, and discover the joy of movement and the outdoors.
Mark Harris
Meet your coach
Mark Harris is a personal trainer specializing in strength and conditioning, with a passion for helping young athletes build confidence, improve performance, and develop a strong foundation for long-term success. Growing up, Mark played basketball and soccer before going on to play junior football, giving him firsthand experience in the commitment, discipline, and work ethic that sport demands.
Along with his background in team sports, Mark has also completed two half marathons, giving him a well-rounded understanding of both strength and endurance training. He has competed in powerlifting at the national level, placing in the top 10 nationally and top 4 at both the regional and provincial levels.
Mark is currently studying for his Business Diploma at Vancouver Island University (VIU), where he is continuing to develop the knowledge and skills needed to build and grow programs that support young athletes in the community.
As both an athlete and coach, Mark brings real-world experience, energy, and encouragement to every session. He is passionate about creating a positive and supportive environment where young athletes can improve their movement skills, build confidence, and develop healthy habits that carry into both sport and everyday life.
Ready to elevate your child's athletic potential?
Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can help your young athlete achieve their goals.