This article explores why high-quality, consistent, and useful sport and physical activity participation data matter for educators, schools, and communities. Although Canada has valuable national surveys and respected organizations that monitor participation, important gaps remain in understanding who participates, who does not, and where barriers to participation exist, particularly within school settings. Drawing on examples from Canada and abroad, the article examines how more coordinated and accessible participation data can support a range of actions that allow more children and youth to be active. It also highlights emerging initiatives that aim to provide decision-makers with more timely, integrated, and actionable sport and physical activity participation information.