Joyce K, Los Angeles

It’s not uncommon to hear coaches telling young athletes to “toughen up” and “push through”. After all, it’s the coach’s role to train athletes both physically and mentally, pushing them to become stronger and better at their sport. But when does this just become an excuse for abuse of these athletes?

Good sporting environments should ensure safety and cultivate respect, which ultimately help the athletes thrive. Not only does this build confidence in their abilities, it creates a love for the sport, and a willingness to continue playing. But emotional and physical distress caused by adults can ruin athletes’ passions entirely.

A 2022 survey published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that almost 19% percent of athletes surveyed from the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) reported to have experienced some form of abusive supervision. Results also revealed that coaches who showed attention to the needs of their athletes and respect for their opinions had lower odds of being reported for abusive supervision.

Clearly, coaches who are caught up in winning and prioritize avoiding losses over their athletes’ wellbeing seem to be more likely to be reported. And yet, it is not easy to stand up against or even recognize this abusive behavior. Why is that?

Because yelling at athletes, humiliating them in front of their peers, or working them until overexhaustion is often framed as coaches doing their job. It can be hard to recognize that the adults who train you, help you, and coach you are the very people who are causing you mental distress, when that is the case. However, this is not a form of care, but rather a form of gaslighting.

While in the short term, these aggressive methods may seem effective at fixing athletes’ behavior and avoiding mistakes, it is also important to consider the long term effects. Long term, emotional abuse can ruin athletes’ confidence and cause burnout and other negative effects on mental health. It can completely rid the athlete of their passion and genuine enjoyment of the sport, preventing them from playing long-term.

This is not to say that coaches should not do their job. Coaches can effectively train athletes without causing emotional trauma. By creating genuine relationships built on trust and respect between the coaches and athletes and promoting open communication, coaches can ensure that athletes are safe, both physically and mentally. Regulating physical training for the goal of improving skills rather than punishment, and sharing critiques while not yelling and causing humiliation are all viable ways to maintain a sporting environment athletes will want to continue coming back to.

By advocating for individuals who have experienced abuse while playing sports, and raising awareness of the signs of coach abuse, the sporting community can come together to prevent further continuation of abusive behavior. Athletes should be reminded that such behavior is reportable, and should be encouraged to do so or talk to a trusted adult if they ever feel uncomfortable because of a coach’s actions.

It is essential to recognize that the meaning of sports is not rooted in simply winning. Sports should promote physical and mental health, and help to build character and a sense of belonging to a community. Sports that are free from abuse build lasting relationships, boost self-esteem, and foster teamwork and discipline. There is so much more to the athletic world than a shining trophy.

Joyce is a Los Angeles-based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the Los Angeles participants here

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For more information and guidance, see:

• Resources from the US Center for Safe Sport

These resources are for anyone who is “working to change sport culture and create environments free from abuse”. They cover five areas: i. recognizing, ii. preventing, and iii. responding to abuse and misconduct, iv. supporting survivors, and v. using effective policies.

And resources specific to coaching:

• “Is it appropriate coaching, or abuse?”, US Center for Safe Sport

• “Compassionate Coach”, an educational training course developed by The Athlete Survivors’ Assist

• “Coaching Boys into Men”, an evidence-based violence prevention program provided by Futures Without Violence

Words: Nicole P, Toronto

As Canada prepares to welcome the world for the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026, the focus goes far beyond stadium capacity and goals. Teams from across the African continent are set to compete in the tournament. The first round teams playing in my home city of Toronto include Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire and Senegal.

Canada has an anti-racism strategy for 2024-2028 called “Changing Systems, Transforming Lives”. By viewing the tournament through the lens of this strategy, the federal government and host cities like Toronto and Vancouver can ensure that the tournament is marked by celebration and love of soccer, rather than the racial hostility that has scarred international soccer in recent years.

The lesson of Vinícius Júnior

There is a push for anti-racism measures in sports given the common racial abuse of athletes on the international stage.

Brazilian soccer player Vinícius Júnior is a prominent example. Subjected to monkey chants and racist slurs in Europe, his experience shows how systemic failures can leave Black athletes in a state of psychological fear.

The attacks on his skin colour not only negatively affect his own mental health but send out a message to any young athlete who may look like him. A message that screams you are not welcome into the world of sport because of your skin.

Vinícius’s struggle has also highlighted the fact that professional leagues’ processes to combat racism can still leave the situation “all down to the victim” in the moment of the game. Players are left vulnerable and isolated on the field.

Action at the federal level

In the Changing Systems: Transforming Lives anti-racism strategy, the Canadian government acknowledges that anti-Black racism is rooted in a 400-year history of enslavement and colonialism. It recognizes that anti-Black racism is not just a series of one-off incidents but is deeply rooted in institutions, often invisible to the public.

World Cup organizers can refer to this strategy to gain important insights on measures to strengthen protection for athletes and visitors. For example:

• International engagement: Canada is using international engagement and social media outreach to spread the word about its racial equity goals, while also working with multilateral partners to fight anti-Black racism.

• Sport integrity: Canadian Heritage is working on expanding sport program accessibility to create healthy, safe, and welcoming sport experiences and environments, which could be a great influence for World Cup organizers.

• Accountability programs: The strategy includes the development of an annual anti-racism report card to track the performance of federal departments in meeting equity goals.

Local impact and legacy in Toronto

As a World Cup host, the City of Toronto has developed five legacy themes, each with an advisory body that is making recommendations.

The themes include “Human Rights, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Anti-Racism” and “Sport, Physical Activity, Health & Wellness”, with the latter placing a strong focus on reducing barriers to participation for children and youth, Indigenous and Black communities, women, and other equity-deserving groups.

The youth dimension

The stakes of anti-racism safeguards are high for Canada’s younger population. Racialized populations in Canada are overwhelmingly younger than non-racialized populations. And research published in 2025 found that over 40% of black students in Canada’s schools have experienced a racist incident.

The experience of racism is not just a social issue; it also impacts health. The Government has highlighted a link between limited access to safe environments and exposure to discrimination, with lower life satisfaction and poor mental health. To counter this, the federal strategy is guided by a “Trauma and Violence-Informed” approach that prioritizes safety, empathy, and compassion.

The role of global watchdogs

International watchdogs like Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and the Sport and Rights Alliance have emphasized that words and policies must be matched by concrete action in the context of the World Cup. They have called for FIFA to have strong anti-discrimination messaging and to provide enforceable protections against racial profiling.

FIFA itself has an anti-discrimination monitoring program and has said it plans to project anti-racism messaging at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Each host city is required to develop a “human rights action plan” with measures to tackle discrimination and trafficking as well as other issues.

The importance of a safe space

The ultimate goal of all these safeguards is to ensure that a young fan from Toronto or a visiting player from an African nation can participate without fearing for their dignity.

If host cities focus on centering the principle of “Nothing About Us Without Us”, which values input from those involved, the government can ensure that those most affected by racism are the ones guiding the protective measures.

Nicole is a Toronto-based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the Toronto participants here

Yasmine O, New York City

Since entering college in New York City as a high school athlete and befriending college athletes, one thing has struck my mind. The differences between being a college athlete and a high school one are huge. Getting into college is a huge accomplishment, and many see their sport as a creative outlet. It would only make sense for them to continue their journey at a college level. But what is often under-discussed is the gender bias, funding issues, and location of the college that factor into college athletes’ experience.

I spoke with Brianna, a tennis player at a college in New York City. I asked Brianna what she would consider the biggest difference from being a high school athlete to a college athlete who has to balance work, school, and sport commitments.

“I would say the biggest difference is how replaceable we athletes can be,” Brianna says. “In high school our teams are built on support and protection. Our consequences are lighter and more forgiving. Coaches guide us instead of expecting independence. Our roles are adjusted to fit us. Meanwhile in college it is built around performance and accountability. We athletes compete with our teammates and not just our opponents. Our roles are earned and not adjusted to fit us. There is no safety net, we are treated like adults and are evaluated daily. We stop being protected and start being trusted.”

She explains to me that college sports start to feel like some sort of an obligation to do well, as you are due to the school. She goes on to tell me that the location of the school can make it harder for training, having to commute from school to the training facility, which due to one subway delay can turn from a 30 minute commute to a 2 hour one.

To get some more insight on her day-to-day life balancing her commitments, I then asked Brianna what a typical day during the season looks like for her. “I would say it looks like very hard work with practise to get better and better. Improving our skills and mindsets as individuals, and as a team to strive to achieve our very best,” she says, allowing us to understand that it’s not just about what they do, but how they do it that changes the course of their four years.

I followed up by asking her what support she wishes was extended to college athletes at the competitive level. “I would say more mental health resources. There should be more support beyond just performance in general. It gets difficult trying to balance injuries, academics, and it all weighing on our scholarships. This heightens the pressure to perform well. This can all take a toll on athletes, and the topic of mental health is not always openly talked about, but rather taboo. I would hope for some more comfortable, shame-free conversations around asking for help on our mental health,” Brianna explained.

Now understanding the student perspective of being a college athlete, I wanted to get the perspective of a coach, hearing from the side that normally gets told they are too tough or demanding. I asked a coach what they think about the idea of being too tough on students who play at the competitive level, considering they have a lot on their plate.

“Being tough is exactly what they need. I know that it seems rough, or too demanding, but that is what they need to succeed in a field like this where other schools have more funding, more space to work,” said the coach, who chose to be interviewed off the record. “Because we are a school in the city, it’s harder for our students to compete with other athletes who come from Upstate or other states. I push them hard so they will know how it feels to be at the top. However, I always let them know that I’m here for each and every one of them.”

After interviewing Brianna and the coach, it gave me a deeper insight as to what needs to be done. More support, more respect, and more advocating needs to be done for our college athletes. And this needs to start now.

Yasmine is a New York City based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the New York New Jersey participants here

Words: Micah A, Toronto

As excitement builds for the 2026 World Cup, football is celebrated worldwide as a force that can unite nations and transform lives. The tournament will showcase talent from every continent, including Africa, which consistently produces some of the world’s most gifted players. Yet behind this global spectacle lies a hidden reality. For many young African boys, football does not begin with opportunity. It begins with exploitation.

In countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Cameroon, and Ivory Coast, football is widely viewed as one of the few realistic paths out of poverty. Unscrupulous agents and unregulated academies exploit this belief, promising trials, contracts, or scholarships abroad. Families often pay fees equal to months of income for these opportunities. Too often, they are scams. Many young players arrive in foreign countries only to discover there is no trial, no team, and no support system waiting for them.

An estimated 15,000 young players are trafficked each year, the majority of whom come from West Africa. Without documentation, housing, or financial resources, some are abandoned in unfamiliar cities. Reports have documented cases of minors being homeless, forced into labor, or experiencing long-term psychological trauma. These outcomes violate fundamental child rights, including access to education, safety, and protection from exploitation.

This issue reflects broader structural inequality within global sport. European football institutions largely control recruitment systems, wages, and development pathways, while African players and families have limited power in these decisions. Talent flows outward, but investment rarely flows back. This imbalance reinforces historical global inequalities and the perception that success is only possible through migration.

Organizations such as Foot Solidaire are working to confront this crisis. Founded by former Cameroonian footballer Jean-Claude Mbvoumin, the group provides legal assistance, helps trafficked players return home safely, and educates families about the risks of unlicensed agents. Work by Foot Solidaire and others such as Mission 89 has helped many victims, but the scale of exploitation requires stronger laws, stricter enforcement, and greater accountability from international football authorities.

Economic hardship, weak regulation, and global demand for talent all contribute to the problem. When systems fail to protect vulnerable youth, traffickers face few consequences while children face life-altering risks. Addressing this injustice requires coordinated global action. Governing bodies must regulate agents, governments must monitor academies, and communities must be informed about safe recruitment pathways. While FIFA, the international body that governs football, has strict rules on recruiting players across borders and registering agents, most aspiring players do not know about the rules and the deception persists.

Football should be a gateway to opportunity, not exploitation. Protecting young athletes means reshaping the sport into a system that values human dignity over profit. Talent should open doors, not place children in danger. Until the global football industry better confronts this reality, the dreams of countless young players will continue to be sold, and too often, abandoned.

Micah is a Toronto-based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the Toronto participants here

Words: Ma’Net, Los Angeles

With the current success of the show Heated Rivalry, audiences witness a quiet love story between two queer men falling in love with each other and their sport, ice hockey. However, with this show currently being the most praised on the internet, I’m left to wonder what this will mean for queer athletes worldwide. Will the treatment of queer athletes change? Will the negative connotations towards being queer in much of the media soon become positive? As I’m left wondering, I land on one question in particular, why were queer athletes treated terribly in the first place?

With the close of the recent 2026 Winter Olympics, and tournaments such as the World Cup, Olympics, and Paralympics approaching I feel like this conversation is necessary to have. The main reasons holding back progress in sports are mainly due to gender stereotypes and fan harassment. Both of these factors cause erasure of queer voices in the sports industry and stimulate the idea that there’s no representation when that’s simply not true.

Many equate sports to the idea of masculinity, especially in male-dominated sports. Due to homophobia, queerness is attributed to being more feminine, and is therefore looked down upon in sports like hockey or American football. Numerous fans want their favorite players to be the epitome of masculinity, and if their favorite athletes were to come out as queer then it ruins the entire vision that they had for them. This leads fans to believe that it will cause irreparable damage to how outsiders will view the sport itself, and in turn also reflects the fans of that sport.

There’s also a double standard for athletes who come out due to their gender. In general, women in sports are more likely to be accepted in society for being queer due to gender norms ingrained into society. Women carry a sense of fluidity that can feel much safer than a man stuck within the rigid standards of toxic masculinity. Women have gained much more social freedom to explore their identity and freely express who they are. With this freedom of expression, they also don’t face as much backlash as men can. This causes a double standard when coming out, especially for athletes. Many believe that a female athlete coming out doesn’t cause any threat to sports, but a male athlete coming out can. This is what causes a large problem for queer men in sports. Factors like this make it harder for male athletes to come out, while female athletes are often more accepted in their respective communities.

In most cases where male athletes have come out, they have faced harassment from people who were once fans. Athletes such as Olympic climber Campbell Harrison and soccer player Josh Cavallo experienced extreme backlash in the form of death threats, rumors, and trolling. These fearmongering tactics often scare future sports prodigies to not come out; athletes fear for what may come to their status if they choose to come out to the world. Female athletes who are out tend to be more praised in the sports industry. Examples include Amber Glenn and Brianna Scurry. Amber Glenn has just recently won a team gold medal at the Olympics, and is also the first openly queer woman representing team USA in figure skating. She has received an immense amount of support from the figure skating industry and the audience watching the winter olympics. US women’s soccer player Brianna Scurry was already out when her team won the 1999 Women’s World Cup. She describes how her team was supportive and didn’t treat her any less than her other teammates, although at the time there was still media and sponsorship pressure deterring players from coming out.

The difference between the treatment of male athletes compared to their female counterparts shows the clear disconnect between how sports audiences treat their players. Unfortunately, it also shows how much homophobia and fragile masculinity truly impact industries like the sports industry. But, with shows like Heated Rivalry, we can see a change in how sports fans will treat their athletes in the future. Maybe instead of fear mongering and harassing them until putting those athletes in harm’s way, we can show them love and appreciation.

This newfound diversity in Heated Rivalry has also provided representation to youth that some never thought they would find. They can confide in these athletes who found solace in their identity, knowing that their sexuality would not change the way they played in games or ruin the way the sport was viewed. In fact, for many young queer athletes, they feel inspired by these new stories coming out. For queer athletes across the world, they can put themselves into the shoes of these fictional characters as well as real athletes who are paving the way to break traditions built from years of homophobia and toxic masculinity.

As a queer athlete, I’m a fan of what shows like Heated Rivalry are doing for sports audiences across the world. Not only that, industries are ever-changing. Being able to witness shows and books being released that slowly lead to change in such a toxic and competitive industry makes me excited to see how everything transpires for future generations of athletes.

Ma’Net is is a Los Angeles-based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the Los Angeles participants here

Words: Jeevan G, Toronto

When Toronto hosts games in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the games themselves will just be part of the story. Just as important if not more will be the communities of fans filling up streets and the public viewing areas across the city, bringing global soccer culture into Canadian context. Toronto has been defined by diversity for a long period of time, and the World Cup offers a rare moment when national identity, migration, and sport intersect in visible and meaningful ways. The city has an opportunity to make the experiences in public places as memorable as possible for visitors and residents alike.

Canada has already got a taste of how sporting events can unite people across cultural lines. In 2019, the Toronto Raptors basketball team had a historic winning run in the NBA Championship, which includes teams from Canada and the United States. Toronto turned into a shared space of celebration. “Jurassic Park”, the public space beside the Scotiabank Arena, became more than a spot to watch the games. It became a symbol of collective identity, where thousands of fans from different backgrounds came together to celebrate one team. Moments like this show how sport in Canada often extends beyond competition, becoming a way for people to feel connected to one another.

Soccer fandom, on the other hand, has a much bigger global reach. During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, fan zones became spaces where fans from across the globe shared experiences with each other. As Irina, a France supporter, put it: “I really love meeting fans from all over the world and this [the Fan Festival] has been a great place to do that. It is really a unique experience.” This kind of interaction really shows how fan spaces can encourage cultural exchange and shared enjoyment, even among fans of different teams.

Toronto is particularly well set up for this type of fan culture. It has many communities with strong ties to soccer-heavy nations such as Italy, Portugal, Ghana, and countries across the Caribbean and Asia. During international tournaments, these relationships often become visible through packed restaurants, flags lining streets, and celebratory gatherings. For many fans, supporting a national team isn’t just about sport, but about maintaining a connection to heritage while living in Canada.

Looking forward, there are some lessons Toronto can learn from how Doha organized its fan experience. The emphasis on organized, family-friendly zones helped create safe and inclusive environments for celebration. Applying similar policies in Toronto can make sure that public viewing spaces are accessible and welcoming to all fans regardless of age, ability, gender and background.

Questions of access are important. With tickets being pricey and limited, public fan spaces and community events will play a huge factor in shaping how inclusive the World Cup feels. Overall, the legacy of the tournament in Toronto will rely less on the matches themselves and more on how fan communities come together to celebrate them. In a city built on diversity, the World Cup has the potential to become a moment of shared connection, identity, and collective memory.

Jeevan is a Toronto-based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the Toronto participants here

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Related stories:

• “Celebrating what we have, and making it stronger”, a perspective on the Scotiabank Arena by Toronto-based Youth Media Forward reporter Zeme

• Check the FIFA 2026 World Cup match schedule, including for games taking place in Toronto

• Information on the official FIFA 2026 World Cup fan festival sites in Toronto, at Fort York National Historic Site and The Bentway

And the Centre for Sport and Human Rights and Toronto-based Maximum City have launched a Generation 2026 youth “sites” survey gathering insights from youth aged 10-18 on their experience of World Cup venues, including stadiums and fan festivals.

(Puedes leer el texto en español debajo)

Through Generation 2026: Youth Media Forward, teens based in FIFA World Cup 2026 host cities in Mexico, the United States and Canada are reporting on the impacts of sports in their lives, neighborhoods and in the context of major sports events.

This short guide provides an introduction to sport and human rights, guidance on responsible reporting, story ideas and assignment prompts. We hope it provides inspiration for youth media programs in many contexts!

And do let us know about ways that you are using this guide.

Download the guide here

Una guía para programas de comunicación de enseñanza secundaria

A través de Generación 2026: Iniciativa para Jóvenes Periodistas, jóvenes de las ciudades anfitrionas de la Copa Mundial de la FIFA 2026 en México, Estados Unidos y Canadá informan sobre el impacto del deporte en sus vidas, sus vecindarios y en el contexto de grandes eventos deportivos.

Esta breve guía ofrece una introducción al mundo del deporte y los derechos humanos, orientación sobre periodismo responsable, ideas para reportajes y propuestas para la realización de tareas. Esperamos que la guía sirva de inspiración para los programas de comunicación de enseñanza secundaria en general.

¡Cuéntanos cómo la utilizas!

Descarga la guía aquí

Back in late 2024, Christabel Nsiah-Buadi led a kick-off session with Youth Media Forward participants called “Whose Story”, providing guidance on conducting effective interviews. One year on, Christabel joins four Youth Media Forward reporters to hear about the stories they have reported so far. They also discuss what representation can look like in the media. And of course, who they will be supporting in the upcoming 2026 World Cup.

The reporters also share things that they have learned through Youth Media Forward. From realizing the breadth of interconnections between human rights and sports, to learning from the diverse perspectives of other participants and presenters, to the importance of a platform for reaching new audiences with their stories, to practical tips, like leaving space for an interviewee to keep talking and elaborate on their answers.

The podcast guests are:

• Ma’Net, based in Los Angeles, whose Youth Media Forward stories so far are an interview with a high school sports captain on “when some school sports get all the love”, and her op-ed “performative feminism in the world of social media”.

• Camilo, also based in Los Angeles, who interviewed coach Lopez. Lopez has been Camilo’s basketball coach for several years. In the podcast, Camilo shares why it was important for the interview to be available in Spanish and English.

• Declan, based in New Jersey, whose Youth Media Forward articles ask “How will the FIFA World Cup impact tourism and services in New York and New Jersey?” (a Q&A with the NYNJ host committee), and “What will new US border restrictions mean for the World Cup?”
  
  Together with another New Jersey-based YMF reporter, Fatima, Declan interviewed Yael Averbuch West, the General Manager of Gotham FC, a US National Women’s Soccer League team.

• Camilla, based in New York City, whose commentary “Keep your eyes on Venezuela” explores the new narratives and possibilities that can emerge from sports and sports coverage, through the story of her family watching a Venezuelan “Vinotinto” team qualifying match. Camilla also interviewed her former running coach for “Running culture - how Shane Myers is building a club and a movement”.

Excerpts:

What have you learned through Youth Media Forward?

Watching a Vino Tinto (Venezuelan national team) qualifying match

What team managers and coaches can do to support their teams in under-resourced schools

Publishing in English and Spanish

Having a platform

Interview - Fatima & Declan, New Jersey

New Jersey-based Youth Media Forward reporters Declan and Fatima interviewed Yael Averbuch West on the sidelines of a “State of Soccer Summit” hosted by Aspen Institute’s Project Play. Yael is a former professional soccer player, and is currently the General Manager of Gotham FC which competes in the US National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).

Their conversation covered leading and inspiring others in the women’s game, the role of high-profile clubs in strengthening the links between the grassroots and professional games, and…sneakers!

Here’s their conversation.

Fatima: As someone who can be seen as a role model for women, what values do you want to portray to encourage other players and leaders like you?

Yael: Strength and confidence are things that are visibly apparent when you watch Gotham FC play. I think those are really important.

Also I think there is a big body image conversation. What does it look like to be a successful woman? If you just say those words, what would someone imagine? Maybe something from a magazine with a very thin model. But our women are powerful. There’s all different body types that can succeed, they are the best in the world at what they do.

We had a rookie this year score an own goal in her first game with the team. And then she went on to fight, and play and slide, and her jersey was all grassy and dirty…That’s an amazing image for someone to see of a successful woman.

Declan: You mentioned Gotham FC is deepening its outreach to local girls’ teams. What is the role that big organizations can play in helping to shift the system - strengthening the connections between the grassroots and professional games?

There is a cumulative effect. It’s what we’re trying to do [for example through the Gotham FC initiative “Keep her in the Game”]. More than 1700 girls were part of our programming during the first year. We are an influential body in this, but we also need to work with the State associations, with groups that are here at the event today, to create this larger current.

For the larger organizations like us, first and foremost it’s stating the purpose. I think that can’t be understated to say how important it is for us to be doing this.

Then you need to develop real programming that has an impact. That costs money, and takes thought and planning - to set up the program, pay the people to lead it and run the operational side. We have just scratched the surface of what other people can follow.

Fatima: I read that you have had to overcome a health condition [ulcerative colitis]. So I was wondering, as a manager of a women’s team, how are you able to balance your players’ health with their determination to play and their strength?

Yael: That’s a wonderful question. You know, we have a wonderful staff that supports our players’ health and performance - and those two things are very closely linked.

There is health like not getting injured and not being ill. There is also health that leads to optimal performance. We’re asking them to do something at the 1% in the world of what they do. So how can they not just be healthy, but be their very best, be getting stronger and faster, and their recovery be optimized between training sessions?

It’s actually very complex. We support with a lot of data, we do a lot of testing, even strength testing throughout the season to check if they are at risk for injury. And an area of women’s soccer that’s still relatively untapped and that we are trying to be on the frontier of is women-specific health related to the menstrual cycle. Do you need different nutrition or supplements during that time? Should you be training differently? These are things that are under-researched because most of the people researching have been men.

And they apply to young girls too. Girls playing at a more recreational level still have the same type of challenges as women competing at the highest level. And then it’s heightened when you’re being asked to push your body really hard.

There’s a lot that we’re still learning about how women need to train and play the sport in the most healthy and safe way while also maximizing the ability to compete and win.

Declan: During this event you mentioned a lot about recreational and scholastic programs as an alternative to pay-to-play. Do you think that making changes in soccer can in turn benefit other sports like basketball, football and others?

Yael: I think some other sports are a little ahead of soccer in that sense. There’s a lot of basketball being played that you don’t have to pay for. You can even see visually if you go through a neighborhood - people playing pickup basketball is a great example. For [American] football you need pads and you can’t really go play football on a street corner - so it’s a bit sports specific in terms of what you need to participate.

But in general, it’s either you just play for fun at school and in rec, or you are really an athlete and you play in a more serious environment. For soccer [that difference] is currently very extreme. I don’t think those things need to be so mutually exclusive - it should be a continuation.

Sports would benefit from a merging of all those concepts, and an extension of the recreational and free and school-based programming.

Fatima: There’s something that I see in my community and see a lot of conversations about - which is how it’s difficult to avoid desiring elitism, especially if you’re from a less privileged background. You may see it as your way out. How do you think that people like local leaders, coaches and managers could play a role in shifting that desire for elitism?

Yael: I think when we use the word elite or elitism, it depends on how you define it. The idea of trying to become elite when it means the best version of that field is a really healthy and good model. Like the idea that you could practice something locally and maybe in your mind, you know, a way out is to become a professional, to get a college scholarship, to go on doing that sport - I think is really good and important. It provides hope, it provides a reason why you would continue to participate, it provides competition.

The way that elite is used right now I think is actually the problem. Elite can be a title slapped onto a soccer program to indicate expensive, and that is where I think it’s really dangerous and disused - when it is not available to everyone. The idea of becoming elite should be available to anyone who wants to work hard in any given field.

If there is a barrier where someone needs a certain amount of resourcing, a certain family upbringing or support, or has to come from a certain type of background to become elite, then something’s broken in the way the term is being used. And I think that’s true in soccer [in the US].

I think we need to really look at how that word is used and maybe actually come up with different terminology. Even if we just call it paid programming, or travel soccer - that’s pretty accurate. You have to all-of-a-sudden travel, it doesn’t mean you’re better, it just means you’re deciding that your family can travel.

If we more accurately define things as to what they actually are, I don’t think elite would be used in the same way at all.

Declan: What do you see as the social role of sports, particularly soccer, for personal development outside of being competitive?

I think when it comes to social relationships and confidence there is so much that soccer can bring. I think it does require competing at soccer to get those things. You bond with your team when you’re trying to play against another team, or you enjoy practice because you’re trying to learn a new skill and maybe you fail a couple times and then you get better.

I would also cite the idea of connecting with people from different backgrounds. Soccer is a common language. I’ve played soccer with people and actually feel like I know them well, even if I’ve not had a conversation with them because we can’t speak the same language. We bonded and had an identification through, for example, we like to play the game a certain way.

So there’s such a social landscape, both individual social growth and skills, and also community and team. But it does require continued participation. It requires people wanting to show up and do those things, which also has to be supported by the coaches and the larger infrastructure that’s set in place.

Fatima: Ok, so we were all asked to wear sneakers today! Can you tell me about yours?

Yael: Well I don’t know sneakers very well, my husband is really into them. But wait a minute, forget mine, what about yours! Those are really cool, where did you find those?

Declan: They were an anniversary present from my girlfriend.

Yael: Good job girlfriend!

Fatima: And mine - my sister said that they’re sporty, so would be good to wear today!

Yael: I’ve loved this conversation - thank you!

This interview was conducted during Aspen Institute Project Play’s “State of Soccer Summit: New York City and Northern New Jersey”, which brought together people passionate about expanding access to and improving experiences of the game as the region prepares to host the 2026 World Cup.

Related: The Centre for Sport and Human Rights, Aspen Institute’s Project Play, UNICEF USA, the US Soccer Foundation and the National League of Cities have formed the Child Rights & Sports Alliance to advance the rights of children and youth in the planning, execution and legacy building for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

As the first cohort of Generation 2026: Youth Media Forward closes it is a good moment to pause and celebrate their achievements so far.

The young journalists and creators have interviewed coaches and athletes, and shared their own experiences of the highs and lows of sports - from cricket to kendo, ballet to basketball, soccer to wrestling.

They have explored ways that sports infrastructure and financial models shape who does and who does not have access to opportunities. And as their cities prepare to host the 2026 World Cup they have lifted up the huge potential of the event as well as the risks that have to be managed for workers, local populations and fans.

Participants strengthened media skills and connected with each other through four virtual sessions with professionals: “Whose Story?”, “Sports, our neighborhoods and cities”, “Sports and accountability” and “The future of sports media”. In their host cities, they visited studios and met with practicing journalists, learning about “reporting without harm”, developing story ideas, and careers in journalism.

At times of growing division and concerns about the future, Youth Media Forward is creating space for youth to share stories that are important to them and to connect across boundaries and borders.

In July 2026, Canada, the United States and Mexico will host 48 competing teams in the FIFA World Cup. As we prepare for the second year of the program we look forward to deepening and expanding its impact, with sports storytelling as a powerful arena for social change.

Youth Media Forward is part of the Centre for Sport and Human Rights’ “Generation 2026” program, advancing safer and youth inclusive sports. Find out more about the program here.

Read, listen to and share the Youth Media Forward participants’ stories here!

Con el cierre de la primera promoción de Generación 2026: Iniciativa para Jóvenes Periodistas, es un buen momento para hacer una pausa y celebrar todo lo logrado hasta ahora.

Las y los jóvenes periodistas y creadores han entrevistado a entrenadores y deportistas, y compartido sus propias experiencias sobre los altos y bajos del deporte: desde el críquet, el kendo, el ballet, básquetbol o el fútbol hasta la lucha libre.

Han explorado cómo las infraestructuras deportivas y los modelos financieros influyen en quiénes tienen y quiénes no tienen acceso a oportunidades. Y, mientras sus ciudades se preparan para recibir la Copa Mundial de 2026, han explorado tanto el gran potencial del evento como los riesgos que hay que gestionar para los trabajadores, la población local y los aficionados.

Las y los participantes mejoraron sus habilidades periodísticas y conectaron entre sí en cuatro sesiones virtuales con profesionales de los medios: “¿La historia de quién?”, “El deporte, nuestros barrios y ciudades”, “Rendición de cuentas”, y “El futuro de los medios deportivos”. En sus ciudades, visitaron medios de comunicación y se reunieron con periodistas profesionales, aprendiendo sobre cómo “contar sin dañar”, desarrollar ideas para historias y explorar una futura carrera periodística.

En tiempos de creciente división e incertidumbre sobre el futuro, la Iniciativa para Jóvenes Periodistas crea espacios para que los jóvenes compartan las historias que les importan y se conecten más allá de fronteras y barreras.

En julio de 2026, Canadá, Estados Unidos y México acogerán a las 48 selecciones nacionales que competirán en la Copa Mundial de la FIFA. Mientras nos preparamos para el segundo año del programa, esperamos profundizar y expandir su impacto, con la narración deportiva como una poderosa vía para el cambio social.

La Iniciativa para Jóvenes Periodistas forma parte del programa Generación 2026 del Centro para el Deporte y los Derechos Humanos, que promueve un deporte más seguro e inclusivo para la niñez. Puedes conocer más sobre el programa aquí.

Lee, escucha y comparte las historias de las y los participantes en la Iniciativa para Jóvenes Periodistas aquí.

Camilla, New York City

New York’s Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is a beautiful sight. Located near Rockefeller Center and bustling Times Square, the grand white building with its Gothic architecture easily catches the eye. It has high arches, stained glass windows, and an incredibly old and beautifully-sounding organ.

Located right next to this striking building, the Consulate General of Venezuela in New York is far from a pretty sight. It’s empty, abandoned. The windows are covered up from the inside with weathered sheets of paper and covered from the front with various posters, many of which have clearly been torn down. In a corner, one says “Restricted Area” in all caps. White letters against bright red. Most striking of all is a big poster that reads:

“Can you imagine one third of the US population with food insecurity and a salary worth $2.5? In Venezuela, this is a reality. Six million Venezuelans have had to leave the country. The crisis in Venezuela is worse than ever.”

The very last line reads: “Keep your eyes on Venezuela.”

A Venezuelan flag still hangs on a pole on top. As though no one could even be bothered to take it down. Or maybe a reminder. That there are still some left fighting.

It is no question that there is a crisis occurring in Venezuela. Due to violence, crime, rampant political repression, hyper-inflation, and lack of access to essentials such as food and medicine, the country’s people have long been struggling. By April 2024, the number of people who had left reached 7.7 million - 20% of the country.

News coverage in the US is full of the word “Venezuela”. But on top of describing the crisis, it is mainly accompanied by the words “migrants”, “criminals”, “terrorists”, and so on. This encapsulates prevailing attitudes in the US towards Venezuela pretty well. Back in March, President Trump tried to invoke the 1798 Alien Enemies Act (which was used to put Japanese citizens in internment camps during World War ll) to “apprehend, restrain, secure, and remove” - without due process - every Venezuelan migrant without US citizenship or permanent residency declared part of the gang Tren de Aragua, as long as they are over 14 years old. This move was, however, immediately blocked by a federal judge.

While news has covered Venezuelan immigration, the horrors Venezuelans are escaping from feel almost like an afterthought, as does Venezuelan resistance to the current government. As an American teen of Venezuelan descent, while I feel that my friends most likely know about undocumented Venezuelan migrants they likely do not know about the Venezuelan presidential election that occurred just last year, nor clear claims that it had been stolen, nor the protests that followed. Protests upon protests from the Venezuelan capital Caracas, to Madrid to New York. Protests by people who simply want to go home.

A Vinotinto soccer game might not always be what you call a beautiful sight. The Venezuelan football team, nicknamed “La Vinotinto” or “Red Wine”, for the team’s signature dark red jersey, is far from the best team. Better known for baseball, the country’s national team has yet to qualify for a World Cup despite having been founded in 1926. This could change for the coming 2026 World Cup. Which is how, a few months ago, I ended up on a sofa watching one of their qualifying matches in my family’s overflowing living room with my parents, my soccer-loving brother and some family friends. One friend was wearing a Vinotinto jersey, and another donned a “PAN” baseball cap (the name of a well-known Venezuelan corn meal brand).

As we watched what is far, far, far from the World’s best team fight for their lives, on a way-too-small sofa, yelling, “vamos!” every other second, my Mom said, “It’s nice to be on the screen for something nice for once.”

That struck me. Both as a depressing comment, but also a hopeful one. These players were united by their red wine jersey, united as Venezuelans on a TV screen, being broadcast to both Venezuelans and non-Venezuelans alike. Not in the back, a simple comment, a distant idea. At the forefront. Right in one’s face. Proving their existence right then and now. Not as victims or gang members or criminals or migrants or tragedies from some faraway land. But as players. People.

In this sense, the team’s disruption of the one-dimensional narrative is in itself political. Yet the political dimension runs deeper than that. At a 2017 event celebrating Venezuela’s youth team, which made it to the FIFA U-20 World Cup final, the cheering fans eventually began chanting anti-government slogans. At one point, they sang, “It's going to fall, it's going to fall, this government is going to fall!" The team’s coach would later speak out against Maduro’s violence towards protestors. And in the wake of last year’s presidential election, while trying to qualify (with success so far - finishing first in their group), at least 12 players called out President Maduro and the government for election fraud. One player, Salomón Rondón, posted on his Instagram, “all eyes on Venezuela”.

While sport can be used to cleanse the government’s image in front of an international audience and citizens themselves, it simultaneously provides a platform for people to speak out. And this is the power of sport. Uniting, representing, amplifying, humanizing. Shining light on new narratives. It’s this power that we should keep in mind this September when Vintotinto will try to secure a spot in the World Cup - and for all teams as the World Cup comes closer. With 2026’s expanded pool of 48 teams, we’ll see more countries on our screen: small countries, struggling countries, fighting countries… Let’s remember to keep our eyes on them. Injustices happening to them, in them, by them. The fact that there is so often more to the story. More that we can do. The realization of this is, truly, a beautiful sight.

¡Vamos Vinotinto!

Camilla is a New York City based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the New York New Jersey participants here

Words - Yasin, New Jersey

New Jersey Youth Soccer held its 2025 awards dinner in Edison, with over 1,000 guests. The event recognized many accomplishments and celebrated the State's top performers in a fun atmosphere.

As a Youth Media Forward participant who also plays soccer, it was my privilege to be invited to participate as a behind-the-scenes photographer. Matt and Sydney - two other soccer-playing Youth Media Forward participants were also there, conducting red carpet interviews with awardees. It was an opportunity for us to practice media skills at a celebratory moment for youth soccer in our home State.

The awards honored the work ethic and passion that fuels the sport at every level - recognizing players, coaches, referees, volunteers, scholarship recipients, and more, and with interventions by special guests and VIPs.

The evening was as much a celebration of the past, as it was a source of inspiration for the future generation of New Jersey soccer, at a time when New Jersey and other locations across North America are preparing to host the 2026 World Cup.

Yasin is a New Jersey based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the New York New Jersey participants here

Words: Micah, Toronto

Every weekend in parks, schoolyards, and empty lots across the city of Toronto, you’ll find kids with big dreams chasing a ball until the streetlights come on. For them, soccer isn’t just a sport, it’s an escape, a hope, and a chance to make something of themselves and give back to the people they love.

But talent doesn’t always get you through the door. If you don’t have money, the game can shut you out before you even get started. Between club fees, travel costs, and equipment, playing for a good academy can cost thousands of dollars a year, money that many families simply don’t have. So what happens? Players who could be tomorrow’s stars get left on the sideline while those who can afford it move forward. It’s a cycle that has nothing to do with how good you are and everything to do with how much is in your parents’ bank account.

Take Gian for example, a kid who grew up in the Jane and Finch neighborhood. A place where, for many, the odds feel stacked against you from the jump. “Growing up in a place like Jane and Finch, you already feel like you have everything against you,” Gian says. “But at the end of the day, the goal is simple: make your family proud.”

That’s the part people forget, this isn’t just about soccer. For kids like Gian, the dream is bigger than them. It’s about being a role model for younger siblings, helping their parents, showing their community where you come from doesn’t have to decide where you end up.

So many kids have the talent, the hunger, the mindset. They stay late after practice, they run laps on their own time, they juggle part-time jobs to help at home, but no matter how much they give, they still can’t buy their way onto the right teams or get in front of the right scouts. They miss out on scholarships, showcases, and connections that could change everything. It’s frustrating, unfair, and heartbreaking, because talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t.

When money decides who gets to play, we lose more than just potential players. We lose leaders, stories of hope, and proof that your circumstances don’t have to hold you back. No kid should be punished for being born into the wrong postal code. No parent should have to choose between putting food on the table and paying a club fee. And no dream should be priced out before it has a chance to grow.

If we really want to see the beautiful game at its best, we need to open the doors wider. We need to make sure the Gians of the world get their shot, not just for them, but for everyone who dares to believe that hard work and heart should be worth more than a dollar sign.

Micah is a Toronto-based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the Toronto participants here

Podcast: Ma’Net, Los Angeles

In this podcast, Ma’Net, a Los Angeles-based Youth Media Forward participant, speaks with high school senior Natalie. Natalie has competed in multiple school sports and has captained the girls’ volleyball and soccer teams. They discuss bias within the high school sports ecosystem.

Many Title 1 schools in the United States (schools with a high proportion of students qualifying for free lunch, based on household income) have under-funded sports departments. This leads to some sports such as basketball getting favored over others. When these sports’ teams do well, the schools dedicate further resources to them, leading to a cycle of disinvestment in other sports.

Natalie describes the unfairness of this system, from her firsthand experience - and how it can affect student athletes in sports that either do or don’t get the love. Their conversation comes during a time when multiple schools are experiencing funding cuts under the current administration.

Natalie also has advice for students who want to reduce this bias in their own school sports communities, including reaching school leaders and administrators who can start to address the problem.

Ma’Net is is a Los Angeles-based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the Los Angeles participants here

Podcast: Sanaa, New York New Jersey

In this podcast, NYC-based Youth Media Forward participant Sanaa interviews Ruby, a high school senior and a dancer with the Manhattan Youth Ballet.

They discuss the determination involved in ballet, what keeps Ruby going, and parallels with training in other sports such as soccer.

“Dance is so difficult to place into a category,” Ruby says;

Ruby also shares advice for aspiring dancers and looks to her own future, as she prepares to start college where she plans to double-major in dance and journalism.

Sanaa is a New York City based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the New York New Jersey participants here

Words: Nicole, Toronto

With its headquarters in the centre of Toronto, Right To Play is a non-profit organization that uses play to promote children's rights and improve the lives of vulnerable youth.

Right To Play has programs in 14 countries, across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and in Canada. At its heart lies a simple yet powerful belief: every child, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to grow through play, learn through sport, and thrive in a safe and inclusive environment.

In the context of its work in Canada, Right To Play is a link between young people and their full potential in a nation that is still struggling with systemic injustices, particularly those that impact indigenous communities.

In Canada, many indigenous children face unnecessarily high barriers to education, health care, and social inclusion. The programs offered by Right To Play are there to help break down these barriers. Through its community-led, culturally appropriate programs with First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities, Right to Play’s community partners strengthen skills like resilience, confidence, and teamwork. These programs go beyond sport; they are catalysts for empowerment, giving young people a path towards leadership.

Recent community partner initiatives have included the “help-an-elder” program in Tk’emlups te Secwepmc and a youth council at the White Buffalo Youth Lodge in Saskatoon.

Right to Play is more than just a charity; it is a movement based on justice, equality, and well-being. It continues to change the lives of young people by giving them a safe space where they'll lead, grow, and belong, not just play. Right to Play builds a more compassionate and just society through sport and inclusivity, reminding us that sports are for everyone and have more of an impact on us than we know, but only if we let them.

Nicole is a Toronto-based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the Toronto participants here

Words: Yasmine, NYC

Often called the "world's game," soccer cuts beyond national boundaries, linguistic barriers, and cultural differences. Its widespread appeal and worldwide reach make it an effective platform for advancing equality and human rights. But social issues like prejudice and unequal representation persist. Social media can amplify calls for change, but too often it is used as a weapon rather than a unifying force.

Throughout history, soccer has served as a rallying cry for human rights campaigns. For example during apartheid, while the country was banned from competing internationally, soccer led the way in resisting segregation in sport. Recently, fans and players have found a powerful way to share their voice. Social media.

Vinicius Jr. experienced racism firsthand while playing on the field and online. He stood his ground, and supported not only himself as a Black soccer athlete, but athletes of color in general. He spoke up when it was hard - he spoke up for well-known players, not well-known players, big leagues, and small leagues. He sets a prime example of social media representation we need moving forward, and the support the soccer world needs.

The battle is far from over. The dual-edged character of social media has been brought to light by the recent increase in targeted online harassment directed at players, particularly those from underrepresented groups. Online racial taunts were directed at Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Bukayo Saka after they missed penalties in the UEFA Euro 2020 final. These kinds of occurrences highlight how urgently the relationship between social media, human rights, and soccer needs to be addressed. These sites frequently neglect to put in place adequate safeguards against harm, making users open to abuse.

These problems are made worse by the unfettered proliferation of "red pill" beliefs that promote misogyny, celebrate toxic masculinity, and target young males. Fans' perceptions and interactions with athletes are influenced by this digital ecosystem, which frequently dismisses their advocacy and reduces them to stereotypes.

Although many players are trying their best to support the soccer world and stand their ground the best we can, we also need to look at it from a professional standpoint. Stakeholders must collaborate to address these issues if soccer is to be fully utilized as a positive force. More severe sanctions must be put in place by governing organizations such as FIFA and UEFA for discriminatory conduct on and off the field. To make sure that soccer reflects the ideals it seeks to preserve, clubs, players, and supporters must work together to foster an inclusive and respectful culture.

Social media firms should also be held accountable. It is imperative to implement better algorithms, more stringent content control guidelines, and more severe sanctions for abusive conduct. Safer internet environments for athletes and supporters can be achieved through collaborations with groups like Kick It Out and Amnesty International.

Education is also very important. We can shape the next generation of soccer players and supporters to be more accepting and compassionate by incorporating lessons on equality, respect, and digital citizenship into youth soccer programs.

Because of its widespread appeal, soccer can play an important role advancing equality and human rights. Responsible social media has a role to play in ensuring that the beautiful game genuinely lives up to its name, one in which each player, supporter, and participant feels appreciated and respected.

Yasmine is a New York-based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the New York New Jersey participants here

Words: Naomi, Toronto

Cricket is the second most popular sport in the world (second to soccer) and is one of the fastest growing sports in Canada. It has a huge role in the community in the city of Brampton, Ontario. At first, I never knew much about cricket, but with Brampton's rising cricket infrastructure and fans constantly playing, naturally it sparked my curiosity. I learned so much by connecting with different influential Bramptonian community members and hardcore fans.

Cricket serves as a unifying force for Brampton's multicultural population. The City of Brampton has been actively taking continuous steps to shape cricket culture. Did you know there are 22 cricket sites in Brampton and that number keeps growing each year? There is cricket programming offered at many recreational facilities and cricket camps offered for youth and girls. In 2024, the City of Brampton proudly hosted the prestigious GT20 Canada tournament. The mayor of Brampton, Patrick Brown, plans to make Brampton the cricket capital of North America. To support his vision, he continues to open many new cricket fields, including the latest field at Turner Fenton's Secondary School, which was officially opened on April 15, 2025. This was a joint venture with the Peel District School Board. The city plans to work with other partners in its quest to develop the sport in Brampton.

“No city has the passion, the participation or the frenzy that we do. We are building the cricket environment to make Brampton the breeding ground for intentional success.”

-Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton

A pivotal organization in Brampton that shapes this rapidly growing sport in the community is the Ontario Schools Cricket Association (OSCA). OSCA empowers students to dive deep into cricket. OSCA shifts this bat and ball sport, consisting of two teams, from more than a sport to an environment where memories are made and character is shaped. So many fundamental skills are learned from teamwork, discipline, confidence, and unity. Many students claim that it helps to keep them active, improving physical fitness, stamina and hand-eye coordination, getting them off of social media and actively into the community. This program establishes strong social infrastructures, human connections, promotes the physical and mental health of all students, and impacts 5000+ students across Ontario, helping students discover their strengths. This program was formed to expose Canadian-born kids to this sport, popularising the sport in Canada and fostering new connections for generations to come.

“Cricket is one of the most popular sports in the world, yet many young people in Ontario haven’t had the chance to play it. OSCA bridges that gap by making cricket accessible in schools, in a way that’s locally responsive and culturally meaningful.”

— Ranil Mendis, Ontario Schools Cricket Association

Although cricket enjoys widespread popularity in Brampton and on a global scale, it still struggles to get the recognition it deserves in Canada. In most parts of Canada, hockey and soccer dominate facilities, funding, and media attention, leaving cricket in the shadows. National identity, policy, and tradition can shape what sports are prioritized, but that narrative can evolve. It’s time to bring cricket into the bigger picture.

What makes Brampton succeed in cricket is not only the growing popularity in the community due to cultural connections, but also investments in infrastructure, which fuels its growth. Bringing cricket into Canadian culture starts with increased funding, the creation of publicly accessible playing grounds, and the incorporation of cricket into schools. This allows for increased opportunities for cricket teams across Canada, and active opportunities for engaging participants to play, support and cheer. It starts with funding an infrastructure, which can cause a domino effect, increasing participants, engagement, and with that the expansion and creation of organizations like OSCA nationally. By establishing a national and sustainable framework, cricket further integrates into Canada’s diverse identity.

With the help of the government, media attention, and the rapidly evolving society, cricket has the chance to gain wider recognition in Canada. By highlighting success stories on players and thriving cities in the sport like Brampton, the narrative that surrounds cricket can move from the margins into the mainstream, attracting new fans, participants, athletes, and sponsors.

Naomi is a Toronto-based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the Toronto participants here

References:

Cricket is for everyone. and Ontario Schoolkids could use a little joy, especially girls, J Callaghan, 26 Feb 2022, Toronto Star.

“Brampton Unveils New Cricket Pitch at Turner Fenton School, Strengthening Its Title as Cricket Capital of Canada”, ymediagroup on X, 21 April 2025

Words: Emily, NYC

When the New York City Council greenlit Etihad Park, a 25,000‐seat, privately financed, fully electric soccer stadium in Willets Point, riders of the 7 train cheered. Finally, NYCFC would call Queens home, its overwhelmingly diverse, working‐class borough. Politicians described the site as a former “Valley of Ashes” (the label designated to the area in The Great Gatsby), reborn through affordable housing, transit, and public space. But beneath the fanfare lies a troubling urban planning misstep that threatens to fracture Flushing’s fragile social makeup.

1. A “transit village” or a crowd magnet?

Willets Point is undeniably accessible, as it’s next to both the 7 train and Long Island Rail Road, adjacent to the New York Mets’ baseball team’s Citi Field. But turning that transit hub into a high-density event zone risks overwhelming local systems. On match days, tens of thousands will descend on a neighborhood already spilling onto narrow streets and transit platforms. That isn’t placemaking: it's a crowd funnel without sufficient diffusion. And what happens when something goes wrong and transit shuts down?

2. Affordable housing...with a catch

The promise of 2,500 “100% affordable” units is a headline, but according to the New York Times, buried deep lies a 49‐year land‐lease deal that costs the city upwards of $516 million in forgone property taxes. Effectively, Flushing’s tax base is funding a stadium that largely benefits a private club. And there’s no guarantee the housing will reach the lowest‐income households or that price pressure won't ripple into surrounding Flushing, displacing families already struggling.

3. Gentrification despite “affordable” labels

Even NYCFC supporters admit concern. As one has asked, “What are you doing for the neighborhoods surrounding that area?” Their worry remains true: any major redevelopment (stadium, hotel, retail) hurts Flushing’s culturally rich but economically vulnerable fabric. When the “new” Flushing erupts (and retail rents spike, apartments flip, tourism escalates), ethnically-anchored enclaves risk being replaced with wealthy newcomers.

4. Public space on private terms

The project touts 40,000 sq. ft of public open space and a “City Square” plaza. Such spaces can enrich communities, or serve as sanitized event-ticketed commons. The city’s Public Design Commission recommends measures to mitigate heat islands and ensure genuine public access. But will these spaces remain community‐driven, or controlled by stadium scheduling and security clearances? Flushing deserves parks, not plazas where sitting becomes “disruptive.”

5. Wildlife voids and environmental oversight

An often‐overlooked casualty of major projects is the existing informal ecology. A local colony of ~100 stray cats, descendants of the Shea Stadium-era pods, faces eviction with zero relocation plan. If a stadium plan ignores a felonious colony, how will it protect the wetlands, urban trees, and the mental health assets urban nature provides?

Better alternatives?

A more balanced redevelopment wouldn’t center a stadium. It would emphasize:

• Pocket parks and community gardens rather than crowded plazas

• Walkable mid‐rise housing spread across Willets Point, integrated with Flushing.

• Upgraded transit resilience, not corridors for event surges only.

• Environmental remediation that supports green infrastructure beyond basic cleanup.

• Equity‐backed housing, targeted to existing Queens families to avoid displacement.

A final whistle

Etihad Park will be shiny, revenue-fueled... on paper. But urban planners know placemaking is about daily life, not match-day magic. Flushing needs vibrant streets, affordable homes, and intact communities. A privately‐financed stadium with public cost may repair Willets Point’s “Valley of Ashes,” but it risks creating a “Valley of Guests.” The real champions of Queens deserve better than a trophy that glitters only on game day.

Etihad Park is a spectacular proposal. But it neglects integral urban planning principles: community-centered design, environmental stewardship, and long-term affordability. If the final pitch becomes stadium-first, community-last, Flushing loses, not wins.

******

Emily is a New York-based participant in Youth Media Forward: meet the New York New Jersey participants here

Further context:

• NYCFC’s website about the Etihad Park stadium development.

• NYCFC is part of City Football Group, along with Manchester City and several other clubs. The owners of City Football Group are (at the time of writing) 81% Abu Dhabi United Group, 18% Silver Lake (an American Private equity firm), and 1% the Chinese firms China Media Capital and CITIC Capital

• This StoryMap by Kenny Zhou, “Transit Connectivity, Immigration and Development” provides further context on the neighborhood of Flushing, adjacent to Willets Point