Vaughan teams present a combined cheque from the 2023 OPDL Gary Miller Charity Shield to Sick Kids.
As Ontario Soccer gears up for the thrilling 10th season of the Ontario Player Development League (OPDL), we're reflecting on a few heartwarming acts of kindness that transpired throughout the off-season. In the months following the 2023 OPDL Gary Miller Charity Shield, the winning teams had a chance to present their donations directly to the charities of their choosing.
The 2023 OPDL Gary Miller Charity Shield, held in Vaughan on October 21 and 22 last year, showcased six competitive matches in the U14, U15, and U17 Boys' and Girls’ divisions. This edition of the OPDL Gary Miller Charity Shield marked a significant milestone for the 9-year-old competition as it was hosted for the first time on the outdoor field at the Zanchin Automotive Soccer Centre. This change was made to help accommodate the ever-increasing number of teams, staff, and spectators that attend the annual event.
As expected, attendance at the 2023 OPDL Gary Miller Charity Shield reached an all-time high, helping the event raise a whopping $13,300 for various Ontario charities.
2023 OPDL GARY MILLER CHARITY SHIELD: CHARITY SELECTIONS
Markham City (U15 Girls Champions) donated to Sick Kids
Vaughan (U14 Boys Champions) donated to Sick Kids
Vaughan (U17 Boys Champions) donated to Sick Kids
Aurora (U15 Boys Champions) donated to Sick Kids
North Toronto SC (U14 Girls Champions) donated to Kids Help Phone
Hamilton United Elite (U17 Girls Champions) donated to Ronald McDonald House
Markham City FC presents their cheque from the 2023 OPDL Gary Miller Charity Shield to Sick Kids.
Hamilton United presents their cheque from the 2023 OPDL Gary Miller Charity Shield to Ronald McDonald House.
Aurora FC presents their cheque from the 2023 OPDL Gary Miller Charity Shield to Sick Kids.
Established in 2015, the OPDL Gary Miller Charity Shield has become a cornerstone event in Ontario Soccer's yearly calendar, symbolizing the organization's commitment to community impact. Over the years, the tournament has raised a substantial sum of around $64,000 which has been distributed among charities near and dear to the hearts of our Membership.
Corporate social responsibility lies at the core of Ontario Soccer's mission. Through strategic partnerships, community outreach programs, and initiatives like the OPDL Gary Miller Charity Shield, Ontario Soccer strives to create positive change in our communities through meaningful action and engagement.
Thanks to everyone who helped make the 2023 OPDL Gary Miller Charity Shield such a success! That includes all teams, staff, Match Officials, families, and fans who took part in the event. We look forward to building on the success of last year as the OPDL enters a milestone season in 2024. You can expect the momentum of #OPDL10 to build all season long, coming to an end with the 2024 OPDL Gary Miller Charity Shield as the grand finale. We hope to see you there!