Supporter Spotlight: Vancouver Whitecaps

On March 11, Fast and Female was selected by the Vancouver Whitecaps to receive a $5000 donation from GE Appliances for our work in empowering girls through sport across Canada. The cheque was presented at half time at their Women and Girls Match Day! 

The Vancouver Whitecaps FC is a professional soccer team in Major League Soccer (MLS). The Vancouver Whitecaps FC’s purpose is to unite and inspire its communities. Whitecaps FC is one of the longest-standing professional soccer clubs in North America, having originally been founded in 1974. Since 2011, the club has played in Major League Soccer, the top tier of professional soccer in the United States and Canada. Whitecaps FC is a fully integrated club, housing one of the most unique soccer development programs in North America, starting from grassroots and including professional development programs for both boys and girls, with a goal to provide a safe and welcoming environment so that all participants can thrive and achieve their potential.

Last year, Fast and Female worked with the Vancouver Whitecaps to lead a pre-match jamboree. On August 27, 2022, close to 70 self-identified girls from Vancouver, aged 8-14, as well as 12 REAL Role Models and several Whitecaps staff, came together for the first Women and Girls Sport Night hosted by the Vancouver Whitecaps. The day was filled with opportunities for the participants to connect with strong women role models who have been involved in sports and physical activity in various roles, including coaches, teachers, entrepreneurs, elite and professional athletes and sport experts. The participants had the opportunity to participate in soccer skills and drills in a non-competitive environment on the Whitecaps field while also participating in a workshop to teach the importance of boundaries and healthy friendships. With empowerment top of mind, the day focused on creating a welcoming and fun space for all girls that promoted the continuation of sport and physical activity in all avenues, such as players, coaches, officials, announcers, and athletic staff.    

This year we were involved in a different way. The Vancouver Whitecaps selected Fast and Female to receive a donation from GE Appliances in honour of Women and Girls Match Day. GE Appliances is one of the Vancouver Whitecaps newest partners. GE Appliances Canada, a Mabe company, makes moments that matter for our owners through our passion for making great appliances and providing unparalleled services. We were able to send representatives to the game, including a Youth Advisory Council member and REAL Role Models. 

 

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Thank you SO much to the Vancouver Whitecaps FC for choosing our organization and for hosting a group of Fast and Female community members.