On Friday June 12, as part of the Toronto 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Play Day for schools in Ontario, ArcelorMittal Dofasco, the City of Hamilton and the Hamilton Athletic Trust announced long-term funding for a new soccer development program in Ward 3.

18579742739_3038bde0b6_zThe announcement was made at the CIBC Hamilton Pan Am Soccer Stadium (Tim Horton’s Field) where the youth program, open to children ages 5 through 13 will learn basic soccer skills at a world class soccer venue – and the host of the Toronto 2015 soccer tournament July 11-26. Approximately 500 children will have access to the program at zero cost.

“This was a program we felt strongly about. We understand the power of sport – its ability to inspire, build community, build confidence and build leaders. And we know that the Games has brought even more potential to grow sport in our community – through the inspiration of watching world class athletes and the physical infrastructure of the Games” Sean Donnelly, President and CEO of ArcelorMittal Dofasco continued, “this is a neighbourhood that has not had its own soccer program. And with the Games it is the right time for that to change”.

Saad Rafi, CEO of the Toronto 2015 Organizing Committee who was at the announcement and spoke about the legacy of the Games pointed to the partnership as a key aspect of what these Games are bringing to the region “sports is all about leadership, initiative and giving your best effort. So, it is fitting that this program is the direct result of ArcelorMittal Dofasco’s leadership in the community. They went to the City and took the initiative to get this valuable program going. Because when it comes to supporting the communities where they operate, ArcelorMittal Dofasco makes an exceptional effort. You are a truly outstanding supporter of the Games. And this program is such a worthy legacy of your Games partnership.”

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