Canada Soccer partners with Soccability Canada on the Accessible Soccer Project 

Together with Soccability Canada, Canada Soccer is proud to announce the launch of the Accessible Soccer Project, an initiative designed to reduce barriers for individuals with disabilities to participate in soccer. This project supports local soccer organizations by equipping them with the tools and knowledge to deliver accessible soccer programs in their communities.

Program Objective: ​
​The Club Accessible Soccer Program aims to create opportunities for people with disabilities to engage in soccer in various roles such as players, coaches, match officials, or administrators. Through meaningful discussions, planning, and delivery, the program seeks to enhance Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) within the sport.

Through collaboration, the initiative will increase the capacity and knowledge of soccer leaders to deliver accessible programming tailored to the needs of their community members.

“We are thrilled to partner with Soccability Canada on the Accessible Soccer Project. By providing local organizations with the necessary resources and support, we are working towards making soccer programs accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities. Together, we will foster a culture of inclusivity and opportunity for all participants,” said Sara McConaghy, Canada Soccer’s Director, Community and Fund Development.

Only ten organizations will be selected for this intake. While financial funding is not provided, selected organizations will benefit from the expertise and resources of Soccability Canada to develop or enhance their Accessible Soccer Programs.

Application and Selection Process: ​
​Applications Open: Wednesday, June 12, 2024 ​
​Applications Close: Friday, July 12, 2024 ​
​Applicants Selected: Wednesday, July 31, 2024

​Key Program Deliverables:

• Organisation-hosted Programs: Selected organizations will plan and deliver a new or enhanced accessible soccer program over at least eight weeks.
• Training Module: A 1-day training course, combining classroom and on-field learning, will be facilitated by Soccability Canada instructors.
• Program Survey: Organizations will provide survey responses at the start and completion of the program.
• Session Guide: A pan-disability session guide booklet will be provided, with versions available in English, French, and a Canadian Indigenous interpretation.
• Program Equipment: Each club will receive specialized soccer equipment, including audible balls, assorted balls, flat markers, pinnies, and a ball pump.

Important Timelines: ​
​Agreement & Deliverables Confirmation: August 2024 (virtual) ​
​Training Workshop: September to October 2024 (1-day workshop) ​
​Program Launch & Equipment Delivery: November 2024 to March 2025

“Soccability Canada is eager to support soccer organizations across the country in a meaningful way that will nurture the growth of accessible programs in our communities. Chosen organizations will become a focal point for delivery in their region. Soccer truly is for all, and we applaud Canada Soccer on their continued action in the fields of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility,” ​said Matt Greenwood Soccability Canada.

Canada Soccer and Soccability Canada share a commitment to IDEA principles, ensuring everyone is welcomed and valued within the soccer community. Soccability Canada is dedicated to creating pathways for individuals with disabilities to engage with soccer and achieve their potential in the sport. The Accessible Soccer Project is possible thanks to funding from Sport Canada.

About Soccability Canada
​Soccability Canada is driven by six key values: Discovery, Innovation, Impact, Teamwork, Inclusion, and Fun. Our vision is to ensure that every person with a disability has the opportunity to play soccer in their community. For more information, visit www.soccability.ca.

Accessible Soccer Project Contact: ​
​For inquiries about the Accessible Soccer Project, please contact community@canadasoccer.com ​