Play. Inspire. Unite.
Held across five weekends in March and April at the Zanchin Automotive Soccer Centre in Vaughan, the 2025 Provincial Screening Competitions (PSCs) served as the key identification platform for the U14, U15, U16, and U17 Provincial Xcel Teams.
Returning for a second consecutive year, First Touch Football Canada (FTF Canada) partnered with Ontario Soccer to enhance the U16 and U17 competitions. Known for their commitment to college recruitment, talent identification and exposure, FTF Canada brought enhanced scouting and promotional value to the event, helping ensure more athletes were seen by decision-makers from the next level of the game. With FTF Canada's support, the showcase drew interest from across North America, including scouts and coaches from NCAA Division I and II programs, Ontario University Athletics (OUA), Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA), as well as representatives from the National Development Centre (NDC), Toronto FC Academy, and more.
These showcases represent a critical stepping stone in Ontario’s Talented Player Pathway. With the support of FTF Canada and our growing network of scouts, we are continuing to open more doors for athletes to advance their soccer journey - whether that’s in Canadian and U.S. post-secondary leagues or professional environments. It’s a testament to the hard work of our clubs, coaches, and families, as well as the ambition and commitment of these young athletes.
Approximately 640 athletes were invited to the 2025 PSCs, with an average of 80 athletes per age group and gender. The program attracted players from across Ontario - including cities as far-reaching as Thunder Bay, Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie, Windsor, London, Ottawa, Barrie, and Kingston - reflecting the province-wide reach of the talent pool.
The U16 and U17 PSCs were structured as two-day showcases, enabling coaches and scouts to evaluate athletes more thoroughly, while giving players more time to shine.
These age groups also benefited from pre-event virtual seminars led by guest coaches from both the OUA and NCAA. Designed to support athletes on their journey to collegiate play, the sessions covered NCAA and OUA academic eligibility, the recruiting process, and tips for navigating post-secondary opportunities in Canada and the U.S.
It was a pleasure to partner with Ontario Soccer for the second consecutive year to support the [PSCs]. Through our media and marketing coverage, we’ve worked to elevate the visibility of this important event - particularly to college coaches across North America. We were also proud to organize the pre-event webinar focused on the recruiting process, helping athletes and families navigate their next steps. At FTF Canada, we’re committed to supporting Ontario’s top talent which this event holds, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with Ontario Soccer in the years ahead.
This year also marked an exciting milestone in the U14 Girls PSC. For the first time, the event featured an all-female coaching staff, reinforcing Ontario Soccer’s commitment to growing the game for women not just on the field, but on the sidelines and in leadership roles.
The U14 female staff members were instrumental in managing the competition, supporting the identification process, and mentoring young female athletes in a high-performance setting.
Selected athletes will be named to the Provincial Xcel Teams on the following dates
Players and clubs will be notified in advance under embargo.
As the Provincial Xcel Program continues to evolve, Ontario Soccer remains committed to reducing barriers, increasing visibility, and delivering high-quality talent development experiences that support players on their journey to the next level.
Ontario Soccer would like to thank FTF Canada for their continued support and partnership in delivering a meaningful and high-impact experience for these athletes.
See some of their coverage from the U16 and U17 showcases below: