Introduction to the IDEA Action Plan

Canada Soccer’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility Action Plan reflects our commitment to ensuring soccer in Canada is truly a game for all. Building on our values of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility, this plan outlines a clear framework to embed these principles into every level of our organization — from policy and governance to programs and community engagement.

Inclusion means creating environments where everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of background or identity.
Diversity celebrates the richness of perspectives, cultures, and experiences that strengthen our sport.
Equity ensures fair opportunities for all by identifying and removing barriers to participation and leadership.
Accessibility ensures the game remains open and available to everyone, irrespective of ability.

Together, these principles are more than aspirations — they are the foundation of how we operate and engage with our soccer community.

Through this Action Plan, Canada Soccer commits to transparency, accountability, and collective impact. We will continue to listen, learn, and act — integrating diverse lived experiences into our decision-making, embedding an equity lens into our policies and processes, and developing the resources and partnerships needed to build a more inclusive soccer ecosystem.

This work is about more than sport; it’s about shaping a legacy of belonging. By embedding equity into the heart of soccer, we are not just changing the game — we are helping to build a stronger, more connected Canada.

ELEARNING MODULES FOR CANADA SOCCER MEMBERSHIP 

Canada Soccer is excited to announce the launch of four new eLearning modules designed to support our membership in fostering inclusivity, cultural awareness, and accessibility within soccer communities across Canada. These modules are part of our commitment to creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all participants. 

CULTURAL AWARENESS  

Developed in Partnership with Sport for Life  

An introductory module designed to help sport leaders understand the concept of culture and its impact on interactions within diverse communities. Participants will gain practical tools and insights to model cultural awareness effectively in their leadership roles. 

2SLGBTQ+ INCLUSION  

Developed in Partnership with You Can Play  

This module focuses on creating an inclusive environment for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in soccer. It provides practical strategies to promote acceptance, reduce barriers, and ensure that everyone can participate in the sport without fear of discrimination or exclusion.

ENGAGING NEW TO CANADA Participants

Developed in Partnership with Sport for Life  

This module addresses the barriers newcomers to Canada may face when participating in soccer. It offers actionable solutions and best practices to create welcoming spaces and improve access to the sport for newcomers. 

Adapted Soccer

Developed in Partnership with Soccability Canada  

This workshop equips soccer leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to develop successful disability soccer programs. Participants will learn how to make soccer more accessible and inclusive for individuals with disabilities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the game. 

PARTNERSHIP

 

You Can Play

You Can Play is an organisation dedicated to ensuring equality, respect, and safety for all athletes, coaches, and fans, regardless of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

Pride Match AnnouncementPartnership Announcement  | Pride Guide Community Resource

Sport for Life

Sport For Life is a knowledge-based social enterprise that encourages governments, institutions, schools, and sports organizations to improve their programs and services to benefit everyone—not just the high achievers. We are working with Sport For Life to develop two soccer-specific training modules: Introduction to Belonging in Soccer and Engaging Those Who Are New to Canada.

Soccability Canada

Soccability Canada’s objective is to grow accessible soccer programs by providing guidance and resources to soccer organizations. In collaboration with Soccability Canada, Canada Soccer is offering training and program development to ensure that community organizations can provide fun and accessible programming for everyone. As part of this partnership, we are working with 10 (ten) organizations across the country to develop and implement sustainable adapted soccer programs.

About the Accessible Soccer Project | Accessible Soccer Project Announcement

Resources

Guide to Accessibility and Inclusion
Canada Soccer’s Pride Guide