CANADA SOCCER LAUNCHES NATIONAL TELUS SHE CAN COACH PROGRAM

Canada Soccer, in collaboration with Soccer Nova Scotia and Alberta Soccer, is thrilled to announce the list of clubs chosen to participate in the initial phase of the TELUS She CAN Coach Program.

The TELUS She CAN Coach program is an initiative that focuses on coach recruitment, development, and training exclusively for women. Its main objective is to address the unique challenges faced by women in soccer participation across Canada. By supporting new and entry-level women coaches, this program aims to increase the registration of women and girls in soccer while bridging the gender gap in participation nationwide.

“We’re excited to have received a diverse range of applications from clubs looking to create intentional programming aimed at increasing the number of women and girls in sport,” said Sara McConaghy, Canada Soccer’s – Manager, Development Programming. “It’s clear that there is a significant interest in prioritizing growth in this space, regardless of an organization’s geography or size.”

Canada Soccer has joined forces with Soccer Nova Scotia and Alberta Soccer for the first phase of the TELUS She CAN Coach. Clubs from NS and AB were eligible to participate in the application process. The selected clubs from both provinces have demonstrated their commitment to the program by showcasing their ability to participate, possessing a leader who prioritizes the inclusion of women and girls, appointing a dedicated staff member to oversee program operations, and holding a Canada Soccer Club License.

Canada Soccer has selected the following [12] Clubs from Alberta and [eight] Clubs from Nova Scotia for the first phase of TELUS She CAN Coach:

Nova Scotia: 

Ignite Soccer
Halifax City Soccer Club
Soccer Cape Breton (Cape Breton FC)
Storm Soccer Club
United DFC
Fundy Youth Soccer Club
Suburban FC
Halifax Dunbrack Soccer Club

Alberta:

Eastside Memorial FC
Medicine Hat Soccer Association
Calgary Foothills FC
BTB Soccer Club
Calgary Rangers Soccer Club
Mill Woods Soccer Association (Selects FC)
McKenzie United Soccer Club
Calgary Blizzard Soccer Club
Calgary Rockies FC
Spruce Grove Soccer
New Frontier Soccer Club
Calgary Villains FC

“The future of soccer in Canada is brighter with the support and empowerment of our female leaders both on and off the field,” said Alison Meaney, General Manager, McKenzie United Soccer Club. “As long-standing allies and advocates for girls and women in soccer, McKenzie United SC is thrilled to be selected to participate in the inaugural TELUS, She CAN Coach program.”

“In the next phase, we will begin the recruitment process for new coaches, and we are confident that it will bring an exceptional group of women into coaching,” added McConaghy.

The program timeline and status are as follows:

June – July, 2023: Club Application Window (Closed)

August, 2023: Club Selection (Closed)

September, 2023: Club Onboarding

October – December, 2023: Coach Recruitment

January, 2024: Program Launch

January – May, 2024: Coach Certification & Coach Huddles

June – August, 2024: Practical Coach Experience

September, 2024: Close Evaluation

Canada Soccer, Soccer Nova Scotia and Alberta Soccer extend their gratitude to all the clubs that submitted applications for the TELUS She CAN Coach program. Additional information regarding the next phases of TELUS She CAN Coach will be released in the near future.

About Soccer Nova Scotia:

Soccer Nova Scotia is the provincial governing body for soccer in Nova Scotia, dedicated to fostering the development and growth of the sport in the province. It provides support and resources to clubs, coaches, referees, and players, ensuring a positive and inclusive soccer experience for all.