Ontario Soccer continues to work in consultation with Canada Soccer and the Government of Ontario, as we prepare for Return to Play 2021. Ontario Soccer will keep the membership updated with the most recent developments surrounding the public health crisis as it relates to our sport.

The Government of Ontario announced on Sept. 1, 2021 its decision to require proof of full vaccination (two doses plus 14-day waiting period) for access to select indoor facilities, beginning on Sept. 22, 2021.  

Today, the Government of Ontario has clarified further details of its Proof of Vaccine requirements and further exemptions. They have also released the official regulations.

Ontario Soccer has reviewed the new regulations with the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries to confirm interpretation for sport.

“Organized team sports in indoor facilities” are one area that has been identified by the Government of Ontario to require proof of full vaccination for access to indoor facilities. 

Anyone over the age of 18 (players, coaches, match officials, volunteers, spectators, etc.) are required by the Government of Ontario to show proof of full vaccination before entering indoor facilities for organized team sports.

However, today, the Government of Ontario announced two exemptions to this requirement.

Indoor facilities are exempt from requiring proof of full vaccination for people:

• Who are under 12 years of age;
• Who are under 18 years of age, and who are entering the indoor premises of a facility used for sports and recreational fitness activities solely for the purpose of actively participating in an organized sport.

Please note that “organized team sports in outdoor facilities” have NOT been identified by the Government of Ontario to require proof of full vaccination.

Ontario Soccer will update the Return to Play Guide as soon as possible.

How do I stay connected to Ontario Soccer?

For further information please refer to the latest bulletins on the COVID-19 Updates page, which has all the latest information from Ontario Soccer, as well as resources for your members. Please consider placing a dedicated link to the COVID-19 Updates on the homepage on your website.

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If you have any questions, please contact Patty Forbes, Director, Administration.