Canada Soccer announced an investment of $1,267,860 in programs aimed at providing more Canadians with opportunities to discover the transformative power of sport. Canada Soccer’s new programming was made possible thanks to the support of the Government of Canada Community sport for all initiative with the support of the Ministry of Sport and Physical Activity.​

“We are focused on delivering concrete programs that support future generations of players through the transformative power of soccer across Canada,” said Charmaine Crooks, president of Canada Soccer. “We would like to thank the federal government for helping us build on programs that support our young people, coaches, referees and emerging leaders so they can be positively influenced and grow in the sport they love.

In part, today’s announcement will support the development of two new initiatives: Canada Soccer in Schools and Inclusion and Learning on Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) from Canada Soccer.

Already launched earlier this year, Canada Soccer grants for Free Kicks – Try It Events (application deadline February 14) will help reduce barriers for all new participants in Canada while promoting inclusion in club-hosted events.

Canada Soccer in Schools

Canada Soccer will provide schools with enhanced tools and education to provide an exceptional school soccer experience for all. The project aims to reach a wider audience through the public school system, providing everyone with the opportunity to participate in football. Canada Soccer will work with community clubs in Saskatchewan and Ontario on the first phase of this project. Soccer in Schools grants will be available from March 1, 2024. ​

Learning about Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA)

Canada Soccer has developed a comprehensive training initiative to foster an inclusive and equitable environment within the Canadian soccer landscape. This project aims to create a positive and respectful football community that embraces diversity by addressing implicit bias, removing barriers and encouraging cultural understanding. Training topics include cultural awareness, LGBTQ+ inclusion, newcomers to Canada, anti-racism and adaptive football.

As part of the IDEA synchronous and asynchronous training opportunities, Canada Soccer hosted a conference on LGBTQ+ inclusion and newcomers to Canada in December 2023, open to participants from across the country. In March 2024, the second IDEA Day will take place, focusing on women and girls.​

Upcoming IDEA training days will include asynchronous training and four online learning modules that will provide community club leaders with resources and tools to implement IDEA programs.​

“Our organization creates an accessible, diverse and inclusive football community. “With this funding, Canada Soccer is enabling individuals from all backgrounds to participate, excel and lead – removing barriers and enhancing leadership development to increase their participation in the game,” added Sarah McConaghyDirector of Community Development and Funding at Canada Soccer.