Children through the Odawa Native Friendship Centre were provided with 15 weeks of free, high-level soccer training in 2024 thanks to Atlético Ottawa and SAF Performance.

Through Atleti Equal Access, and supported by key community partners such as Gabriel’s Pizza, St. Anthony’s Soccer Club and SAF Performance, a free winter soccer clinic was made available to clients of the Odawa Native Friendship Centre (ONFC).

The success of the free-to-play program blossomed into an eight-week outdoor clinic that was run throughout the summer. High-level training was provided by SAF Performance and transportation was made available to those who needed it.

Each participant received a unique training top with ONFC’s logo worn proudly and prominently on the front. As part of the year-long collaboration, ONFC were a crucial partner in September’s “For Odawa Match” held on Truth and Reconciliation Day weekend

The program is currently on hold as meetings take place with stakeholders to make improvements and return in the summer of 2025.

Atleti Equal Access aims to work with all Ottawa communities, addressing key issues they face and fundamentally breaking down the barriers to accessing soccer at all levels.

You can support initiatives like this one by becoming an Atlético Ottawa Season Seat Member at the lowest price possible, today. Soccerlude is your last chance to join the Atleti Family at the “early bird” pricing. Click below to find out more.