DIRECTIVES ON ACCESSIBILITY AND INCLUSION IN SOCCER AND FUTSAL
Futsal Club Toronto (FCT) is committed to ensuring that soccer and futsal are accessible and inclusive for all participants, regardless of background, ability, or socioeconomic status. In alignment with the Canada Soccer Guide to Accessibility and Inclusion, FCT actively develops and implements programming to target underrepresented groups, providing equitable opportunities for participation and development in both futsal and soccer.
Commitment to Accessibility and Inclusion
FCT recognizes the importance of removing barriers to participation and fostering a welcoming environment for all players. The club is dedicated to:
Creating Inclusive Programming: Ensuring that futsal and soccer programs are accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds, including newcomers to Canada, individuals with disabilities, and players from underserved communities.
Providing Financial Assistance: Offering scholarships, subsidies, and equipment support to families facing financial barriers to participation.
Encouraging Cultural Diversity: Actively engaging with local community organizations to promote futsal and soccer among cultural and ethnic groups who may have limited access to organized sports.
Promoting Gender Equity: Ensuring that girls and women have equal opportunities to participate, with dedicated programs and resources to encourage long-term involvement.
Programs Targeting Underrepresented Groups
FCT has developed several initiatives aimed at increasing participation among underrepresented groups, including:
Newcomer and Refugee Outreach Program: Partnering with local organizations to introduce futsal and soccer to immigrant and refugee families, providing free or low-cost access to training and league play.
Adaptive Futsal and Soccer Programs: Creating specialized training sessions and game formats for players with physical and intellectual disabilities to ensure inclusive participation.
Girls’ Development Academy: A dedicated program designed to increase female participation in futsal and soccer by providing targeted training, mentorship, and leadership opportunities.
Indigenous Community Engagement: Collaborating with Indigenous organizations to support youth participation in futsal and soccer through culturally inclusive programming and community outreach.
Training and Education for Coaches and Staff
To reinforce its commitment to inclusion, FCT provides ongoing training for coaches, staff, and volunteers, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to foster an inclusive and supportive environment. This includes:
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Workshops
Training on Coaching Athletes with Disabilities
Cultural Competency Training
Alignment with Canada Soccer’s Guidelines
FCT’s accessibility and inclusion initiatives are directly aligned with the principles outlined in Canada Soccer’s Guide to Accessibility and Inclusion, including:
Universal Access: Removing barriers to participation through facility accessibility and financial aid programs.
Safe and Welcoming Spaces: Implementing policies that promote respect, inclusion, and zero tolerance for discrimination.
Pathways for All: Ensuring that all players, regardless of ability or background, have opportunities to progress within the sport at recreational and competitive levels.
Futsal Club Toronto is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and accessible soccer and futsal environment that reflects the diversity of our community. Through targeted programming, financial support, and education initiatives, FCT ensures that all individuals—regardless of gender, ability, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status—have the opportunity to participate, develop, and thrive in the sport. By aligning with Canada Soccer’s accessibility and inclusion standards, FCT continues to break down barriers and create a more equitable and diverse sporting landscape.