About VanIsle Mind and Motion
Discover how VanIsle Mind and Motion is shaping the future of young athletes in Chemainus, British Columbia. Our passion is to foster holistic development, empowering children to excel 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 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
Kyle Peruniak brings a wide range of experience in education, coaching, outdoor leadership, and athlete development to Van Isle Mind & Motion. He holds a Bachelor of Education with a Minor in Environmental Education and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, combining a strong academic background with years of practical experience working with youth in both school and sport settings. Kyle has taught a variety of subjects, including Physical and Health Education, Social Studies, Earth Science, and Outdoor Education, and has served as an Athletic Director, Senior Boys Basketball Coach, and program coordinator. His background in teaching and mentoring young people has helped him build a thoughtful, encouraging, and well-rounded approach to athlete development.
Beyond the classroom, Kyle has extensive experience in leadership, coaching, and safety-based instruction. He has coached basketball at multiple levels, worked with youth in adaptive sports, led outdoor education programs, and holds a long list of certifications in first aid, wilderness response, canoeing, mountain biking, and coaching. His work experience ranges from education and athletics to high-level wildfire rappel training and rescue instruction, showing his ability to lead, adapt, and perform in challenging environments. Kyle’s combination of teaching experience, kinesiology knowledge, coaching background, and leadership skills makes him a valuable mentor for young athletes looking to build confidence, improve performance, and grow in a positive and supportive environment.
Mark Harris
Mark Harris is a personal trainer specializing in strength and conditioning, with a passion for helping athletes build confidence, improve performance, and create a strong foundation for long-term success. Growing up, Mark played basketball and soccer and later played junior football, giving him firsthand experience in the commitment, discipline, and work ethic that the sport demands. In addition to his team sport background, he has also completed two half marathons, giving him a well-rounded understanding of both strength and endurance training.
Mark has also competed in powerlifting at a national level, placing in the top 10 nationally and top 4 at both the regional and provincial level. His experience as both an athlete and coach allows him to bring real-world knowledge, encouragement, and energy into every session. Mark is passionate about creating a positive and supportive environment where young athletes can grow physically and mentally, improve movement skills, and build healthy habits that carry into both sport and everyday life.
"VanIsle Mind and Motion provided the perfect 'next step' for my child's athletic journey. The focus on both physical and mental growth has been incredible."
Sarah K.
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.