First Goals: Giving Every Kid a Chance to Play Soccer

Soccer is more than just a sport; it is also a tool for building confidence, fostering friendships, and opening doors. For many young athletes in British Columbia, the Whitecaps FC First Goals program has become a game-changer, offering free soccer training to youth who may not otherwise have the chance to play.

Last year, First Goals held over 150 sessions and welcomed more than 20,000 participants across the province. For many kids, it was their first experience playing organised sports. The program also provided the kids with essential training equipment, including jerseys, balls, and cones, to over 25 local organisations, removing the financial barrier that often prevents kids from playing.

A Chance to Belong

For 10-year-old Kingston Breen, joining First Goals was a fun experience. He described soccer as a fun game where he liked the fundamentals and the ability to run around and get all his energy out.

Investing in the Future

The First Goals program has helped many kids develop important life skills like confidence, resilience, and teamwork, which they can use in everyday life. Those who show strong potential and passion for the sport may also get the chance to join the Whitecaps FC Academy or other development programs, giving them a pathway to grow as both athletes and individuals.

Get Involved

Whitecaps FC is committed to growing the First Goals program and reaching even more communities in 2024. Sessions will begin on June 1^st  at the Whitecaps Community Centre. Registration is now open. All sessions are free, and participants will receive a training kit to get started.

Parents and community members are also encouraged to support the program by volunteering or donating. Your support can help ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has the chance to experience the joy of soccer.

To learn more or sign up, visit www.whitecapsfc.com. 

Press Release
Vancouver Whitecaps FC Expands its First Goals Program to Reach More Communities in BC

Vancouver, BC, March 16^th, Vancouver Whitecaps FC is excited to announce that they will be expanding its First Goals program, which offers free soccer training to underprivileged youth. The First Goals program brings quality soccer programming to children and youth who face barriers to participation in organized sports. The program sends certified coaches to community centers, youth groups, and after-school programs to deliver high-quality, grassroots soccer instruction at no cost to the participants. In 2023, First Goals held over 150 sessions and supported more than 20,000 young athletes across British Columbia.

“Soccer can be a powerful tool for growth and connection,” said Axel Schuster, Whitecaps FC CEO. “Our goal with First Goals is to give more kids the chance to experience the game while building confidence and forming lasting friendships.”

The new program will include:

• Free training sessions led by certified Whitecaps coaches.
• Equipment kits (jerseys, soccer balls, and training gear) provided by over 25 organizations. inluding current sponsors BMO and Telus.
• A welcoming environment where youth can develop both athletic and personal skills.

“To have the Whitecaps help introduce soccer at a grassroots level in our community to youth who don’t normally get the chance to play is amazing for us. We know that kids will take a lot away from this experience and be excited about soccer going forward” Ali Legge, BGC Central Vancouver Island.

First Goals sessions will begin on June 1^st at the Whitecaps Community Centre. Registration is now open on the Whitecaps FC website.

About Whitecaps FC:
Founded in 1974, Whitecaps FC is one of Canada’s most successful soccer clubs. The team is committed to making soccer accessible to all through its community outreach programs.

For more details, visit www.whitecapsfc.com or contact:

Yinka Rowland
yinka.rowland1@gmail.com

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