Black-and-white image of a coach holding a soccer ball, speaking to kids as they sit on the ground in a semicircle, listening to him. There are houses in the background, behind the field.

ONLINE EXHIBIT: The world’s game in Ontario: Soccer, community and belonging

Where the game grows

Soccer in Ontario continues to grow at every level. From youth leagues and school teams to adult recreation clubs and new and improved facilities — more people in Ontario are playing soccer today than ever.

Youth clubs and tournaments

Youth clubs have built the foundation of the sport in Ontario. Local teams like Wexford Soccer Club in Scarborough give players a chance to develop new skills and build relationships. Events at the youth level, such as the Robbie International Soccer Tournament, bring in teams from across the globe, raising the competition level of youth soccer.

Black-and-white photo of two women soccer players. One seems to be flicking the ball around her opponent, as the defender uses her strength to keep her to the outside.

Black-and-white photo of a competitive aerial duel between two young soccer players.

The game in schools

Soccer is part of physical education programs in high school in Ontario. Playing on a school team takes students beyond the fundamentals, teaching them discipline, leadership and responsibility. These students are playing in a Toronto District School Board game, with Michael Power – St. Joseph High School facing off against Neil McNeil High School. For many young athletes, school competitions are an important training ground for playing at a more competitive level.

Neil McNeil vs. Power, Toronto, 1972 Black-and-white photo of two high school boys playing soccer and running down the field, with one player trying to gain control of the ball.

Provincial and national competition

Some of the more competitive players represent their clubs at the provincial level or represent their province at the national level. Youth athletes in the Ontario Games compete for regional pride, like these players from Guelph and Scarborough at the 1990 Ontario Games tournament. Players representing their province can participate in the Canada Games. In 1989, Ontario won the gold medal in men’s soccer, and the women’s team took the bronze. These large-scale tournaments make it possible for young soccer talent to shine on a big stage.

Black-and-white photo of a soccer player kicking a ball towards the goal as a player on the other team gives it her all and chases the opposing player down.

Black-and-white photo of a soccer player dribbling the ball near the by-line, attempting to get past a defender on the opposing team.

Graduating from high school

For players who choose to develop their game within the school system, the next step is at the University level. Institutions like York University or the University of Toronto give students the chance to compete while getting an education.

Black-and-white photo of a player on the University of Toronto team. He shields his body from two opposing players and tries to receive a pass. The tense emotions on their faces show the intensity of the game.

Black-and-white photo of a soccer player performing a header against a player from the opposing team. Both opponents appear to give their full efforts.

The love of the game

Soccer in Ontario doesn’t end at the youth or university levels. There are many ways to keep enjoying the game. Recreational leagues help men and women to stay connected to soccer. Through playing, they can stay active, build friendships and have fun. Rec leagues also let adults play, even if they’re new to the sport.

Black-and-white photo of a ball flying across the goal from a corner kick. There is a mix of bodies in the 6-yard box as players try to get a touch on the ball. A multi-story institutional-looking building can be seen in the background.

Building the future

Modern facilities create spaces for the growth of soccer in Ontario — like the Ontario Soccer Centre. The Ontario Soccer Centre first opened in 1997 and is now home to the Ontario Cup, the most prestigious youth soccer trophy. Located in Woodbridge, it’s the base for the Ontario Soccer Association (OSA). The facility has a dome-like cover in winter, so it’s possible to play year-round. Organizations like the Ontario Soccer Centre are evidence of investment in developing the next generation of players who might go on to represent their local club, high school or even country.

Colour photo of the Ontario Soccer Centre, seen from across a large soccer field where a scrimmage is taking place.

Back to: Chapter 4

Building the game through community

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