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MLS Toronto FC

Toronto FC and Special Olympics Ontario Unveil Unified Exchange Roster

July 11, 2018 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
Toronto FC News Release


Toronto FC and Special Olympics Ontario announced today the 12-player roster that will compete in the 2018 Special Olympics Unified Sports Soccer Exchange Program at Toyota Park in Chicago, Illinois on Friday, July 20. The team will face off against a roster of Special Olympics athletes from the Chicago area, chosen by the Chicago Fire and Special Olympics Illinois.

"It has become a tradition that Toronto FC play a big part in this initiative led by Special Olympics," said Bill Manning, President, Toronto FC. "Through sport, we can help spread the message of inclusion. We are proud to give these athletes competitive and positive experiences and increase the accessibility of soccer to encourage healthy, active lifestyles."

The Unified Exchange Program is the cornerstone of the Special Olympics Unified Sports initiative in partnership with Major League Soccer and ESPN that leverages the power of sport to promote an environment of social inclusion. Unified soccer teams, comprised of players with and without intellectual disabilities, travel from their home city to other MLS markets to compete in exhibition matches with their Special Olympics counterparts. Unified matches are scheduled in conjunction with MLS club matches, providing MLS fans with an opportunity to witness first-hand the talents and abilities of Special Olympics athletes and Unified partners. Following the roster announcement, the Toronto FC Unified players were treated to a jersey unveil and training session with former Toronto FC captain Dwayne De Rosario.

"Special Olympics Ontario is thrilled to take part in this incredible opportunity," said Glenn MacDonell, President & CEO, Special Olympics Ontario. "Through our partnership with Toronto FC, we are able to provide our athletes with a competitive and meaningful experience, while spreading our message of inclusion and acceptance. Our athletes are very eager to share their love of the game and showcase their abilities on the pitch."

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