Ottawa, Ontario \u0096 The Canadian Soccer Association today released its full demographics report outlining complete player registration information for 2002. The report includes breakdowns on historical growth and analysis of provincial registration numbers.
\u200b\u0093We are delighted that the growth in our sport is at such significant levels,\u0094 said CSA President Andy Sharpe. \u00932002 was a significant year in our history, as Canadians coast to coast continue to play the sport of soccer in ever increasing numbers.\u0094
\u200bTotal player registration for 2002 increased by 4.2% over the previous year to 789,289 soccer participants. Female registration rose by 13% in 2002 as 37,726 more women enrolled in organized soccer. Both the junior and senior levels achieved growth as registration for players under the age of 18 grew by 3.1%, and senior registration increased by 7.7%.
\u200bHistorically, the years following the World Cup have seen an increase in player registrations as witnessed following the ’94 and ’98 FIFA World Cups. The CSA anticipates a growth in registration in 2003 due to the exposure of the FIFA U-19 Women’s World Championship in Edmonton as well as the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan held last summer.