Soccer is the sport my children love most, and we believe team sports are about learning the value of trying hard and winning and losing. It was devastating to discover that all team scores, standings, and tournaments have been taken away from soccer in Ontario for children under the age of 15. This change has been upsetting for many young athletes who are passionate about soccer and wish to experience the full competition and camaraderie that come with the sport.

Team sports play an essential role in teaching children important life skills, such as perseverance, teamwork, and the ability to handle both success and failure. Without the opportunity to score, compete in standings, and participate in tournaments, our children are missing out on crucial lessons that go beyond just physical activity.

In many parts of the world, children under 15 are encouraged to participate in competitive team sports with the elements of scoring and tournaments intact. These competitive aspects help instill a sense of achievement and motivate young players to improve their skills and work hard to attain specific goals.

Moreover, the excitement of matches, standings, and tournaments is what keeps many children engaged in sports, fostering a love for physical fitness that can last a lifetime. Removing these components could result in decreased participation and interest in the sport, which goes against the objectives of promoting a healthy, active lifestyle for youth.

We believe that there is a way to balance the focus on development with the excitement of competition. By reintroducing scores, standings, and tournaments for children under 15, with guidelines to ensure healthy competition, we can create an environment that nurtures young athletes' growth and passion.

We urge the Ontario Soccer Association to reconsider their current regulations and bring back scoring and tournaments for youth soccer. This change will not only enhance the soccer experience for young players but also ensure that they continue to develop the vital life skills that come with team sports.

Please sign this petition to support bringing back the spirit of competition to youth soccer in Ontario. Together, we can make a difference for our children and the future of soccer in our province.