Football Ontario is the Provincial Sport Organization for Football in Ontario. Provincial Sport / Multi-Sport Organizations (PSO/MSOs) are not-for profit organizations formally recognized by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport as the governing body of a particular amateur sport in Ontario. The primary function of PSO/MSOs is the development of athletes, coaches and officials.
Recognized PSO/MSOs play an important role in the sport system by developing their respective sports across Ontario and encouraging participation in recreational and competitive sport programs. They are self-governing organizations responsible for: developing their sports; providing a competitive pathway for athlete development; selecting provincial teams; recruiting and training coaches, officials and volunteers; conducting provincial championships; and ensuring they operate within their National Sport Organization (NSO) rules.
For the public, a provincially recognized PSO/MSO provides assurance that the organization:
- Operates in a safe and effective manner;
- Follows national standards when developing and offering a sport;
- Offers high quality programs to their members;
- Has certified coaches and officials; and
- Has established risk management policies (discipline, harassment, anti-doping, screening for volunteers etc.).
Belonging to a sport club affiliated with a Recognized PSO/MSO is important
PSO/MSOs oversee all aspects of a designated sport and offer programs for people of all ages and abilities, and at all levels of competition. By participating in activities delivered by an organization recognized by a PSO/MSO the public can be assured appropriate standards of coaching, technical programming, officiating and safety have been considered. This will provide individuals with an enjoyable experience while benefiting from sport participation.
The Ministry works with PSO/MSOs to ensure safety is a top priority. This ensures the highest safety standards are applied and monitored throughout all programs and events delivered by those organizations.
