TORONTO, ON | SEPTEMBER 19, 2026 – While anchored by Indigenous Sport & Wellness Ontario’s (ISWO) five-year Spirit of the Pitch legacy initiative and Ontario Soccer’s current Strategic Plan Indigenous Futsal/Soccer initiative, the overarching goal of this landmark collaboration is the enduring, generational development of a sustainable soccer pathway for Indigenous youth and communities across the province. Marked by shared values, mutual respect, and a deep love for the beautiful game, Ontario Soccer has formally welcomed ISWO as an official Associate Member – an extraordinary honour that bridges grassroots community joy with provincial high-performance excellence. "This partnership reflects our shared commitment to growing the game in a way that is inclusive, respectful, and representative of the diverse communities we serve. By continuing to broaden and diversify our membership, we strengthen soccer across Ontario and create more meaningful opportunities for Indigenous youth, families, and communities to feel welcomed, supported, and connected through the sport." said Alan O'Brien, Chair, Board of Directors, Ontario Soccer. Guided by the spirit of Team 88 and directly advancing Call to Action #88, #89 and #90 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada – which calls for sustained athlete development, national initiatives, and systemic collaboration in Indigenous sport – this alliance unites both organizations under a common banner. Together, ISWO and Ontario Soccer are committed to creating welcoming environments where children can fall in love with play, communities are empowered, and systemic barriers are dismantled. "Being welcomed into Ontario Soccer as an Associate Member is both an incredible honour and a historic turning point," said Frank Horn, President of Indigenous Sport & Wellness Ontario. "At its core, this partnership is driven by a shared heart for the game and for the children, youth and c