Team Ontario

Empowering Indigenous Youth Through Sport and Culture

Team Ontario is home to some of the most promising young Indigenous athletes across the province. Selected for their outstanding performance and potential, these athletes represent Ontario on national and international stages at events like the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships (NAHC) and the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG).

Selected athletes receive support and training, with ISWO covering most participation costs. Fundraising is crucial, especially for those from remote communities.

What is Team Ontario

Athletes are chosen to compete in the NAHC and 14 NAIG sports, including athletics, archery, canoe/kayak, soccer, softball, volleyball, and more. Team Ontario is made up of Indigenous youth selected through:

In-person tryouts across Ontario

Online expressions of interest

Partner events and referrals from provincial and national sport organizations

Diverse Support

Celebrating Indigenous athletes and their achievements across 14 disciplines

  • 3-D Archery
  • Athletics
  • Badminton
  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Beach Volleyball
  • Box Lacrosse
  • Canoe/Kayak
  • Golf
  • Rifle Shooting
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Swimming
  • Volleyball
  • Wrestling
Team Ontario

Beyond Sport: Skills for Life

A journey of personal growth and cultural celebration. Athletes not only compete at high levels but also engage in leadership development, cultural pride, and community building. This experience fosters a sense of belonging and resilience, empowering them to become role models in their communities.

Leadership Development

Team Ontario empowers young athletes through leadership training, mentorship, and team roles—building confidence, decision-making, and communication skills for life on and off the field.

Cultural Pride and Belonging

Athletes celebrate Indigenous identity through Team Ontario by engaging in cultural activities, deepening their connection to heritage and fostering pride in their community roots.

Resiliency and Community Connection

Through shared challenges, Team Ontario builds strength and unity. Athletes grow resilient, supported by a community that rises together through every triumph and test.

Access to Training
and Support

Team Ontario connects athletes with tryouts, expert feedback, and mentorship, offering the tools and guidance needed to succeed in competitive sports and beyond.

“I never thought I’d make it out of my small community—now I’ve played on a national stage.”

Team Ontario Participant
NAIG 2023

Join Team Ontario Today!

Discover how you can support Indigenous youth in sports and cultural events across Ontario.

Help Spread the Word

Want to help grow the reach of Team Ontario? Here's how:
Community Sharing Toolkit
Flyers for local schools and community centres
Social media graphics for sharing
Email templates to send to coaches, educators, and youth groups
Download Team Ontario Kit
Partner with ISWO
Are you part of a provincial sport organization, school, or Indigenous group?
Promote your athletes

Makes a Difference

ISWO covers the majority of participation costs—but travel, gear, and event costs still add up. Your support fuels their journey. To learn more consider:

Direct Support

Join ISWO's long list of amazing community partners to help our mission.

Become a Partner
Event Impact

Organize events or fundraising opportunities to support athletes in reaching the next level.

Create an Event