How a World Cup Sparked a Movement — and What’s Next

Burnaby, May 12, 2026 – The SCORES Network began in 1994 as a simple response to a clear need: creating safe, supportive spaces where young people—especially girls—could play, learn, and grow through sport and creative expression.

Canadian Julie Kennedy, a teacher in Washington DC at the time, was inspired to do something remarkable. She created an afterschool program for underrepresented children that integrated soccer, poetry, and service. It was established as DC SCORES, a 1994 FIFA World Cup Legacy Program. Over thirty years later, we are a network of thirteen affiliates across North America, including Canada SCORES, operating in the Greater Toronto Area and Metro Vancouver.

Today, as a result of her brave determination to make a change in the lives of youth, her legacy lives on through Canada SCORES as we support nearly 500 elementary and middle school students across our core and extension programming, helping young people build confidence, teamwork, and voice through consistent, high-quality after-school opportunities.

Students like Fatima and Niko reflect this impact. Fatima shares: 
“My coaches and teammates have always encouraged me, and Canada SCORES feels like a place where I belong and can be myself.”

Alongside peers like Niko, she is developing skills and self-assurance that extend well beyond the classroom and field.

As we approach World Football Giving Day on May 26th we are reminded of football’s global role in advancing inclusion, opportunity, and the empowerment of women and girls—values that continue to guide Canada SCORES today.

At the end of the week, we will be sharing more with you about Fatima and Niko and how you can help them, and other kids like them discover their passion for soccer and confidence in themselves.