Canada Soccer Launches Indigenous Working Group
Canada Soccer is proud to announce the launch of a new Indigenous Working Group to support truth, reconciliation, and greater inclusion of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples in soccer across Canada. The Working Group will bring together Indigenous players, coaches, referees, administrators, and community leaders to identify systemic barriers, propose solutions, and guide Canada Soccer in building a more inclusive future.
Grounded in collaboration, respect, and reconciliation, the group’s work will align with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action related to sport.
“The creation of this Indigenous Working Group is a powerful step forward for Canada Soccer. By walking together with Indigenous communities in true partnership, we can break down barriers, honour the Calls to Action, and reimagine soccer as a space of belonging, healing, and opportunity for all. We call on leaders in sport to lead with courage and commitment — to embed reconciliation into every decision to ensure that the future of soccer reflects the diversity and strength of Indigenous voices.”
- Brad Baker, Member of the Board of Directors at Canada Soccer and Member of Squamish Nation
The Working Group Will:
- Conduct a gap analysis to identify barriers and opportunities for Indigenous participation and leadership.
- Provide prioritized recommendations for programs, policies, and initiatives.
- Develop a final proposal with clear and actionable steps for Canada Soccer to implement.
Provincial and Territorial Sport Organizations are encouraged to share this opportunity within their networks and help identify potential representatives who reflect the diversity and strength of Indigenous soccer communities in their regions.
Expression of Interest
Canada Soccer is inviting Indigenous individuals and organizations, as well as provincial, territorial, and regional sport bodies working in partnership with Indigenous communities, to express their interest in joining or supporting this important work. Individuals and groups can express interest by November 27, 2025, by filling out this form.
The Working Group will ensure broad representation across First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, and will complete its work by the end of 2026.
The header image in this release was designed by Indigenous Artist, Jamin Zuroski (tlaliskasu) with the following description:
It highlights the visual outline of one of the Canadian Residential Schools and how soccer became a positive outlet for many students, so much so, that it was a true escape, where they felt renewed power, purpose, and passion. They made deeper connections with their peers and felt in flight after every game, joyous and free. Canada Soccer continues to pave the pathway for folks to have an emotional and physical outlet, and to build meaningful community connections. For that, we say thank you.
Paulo Senra