IDAHO EQUAL GAME INITIATIVE

​COMMUNITY. INCLUSION.RESPECT

 

Portland Timbers and the Positive coaching Alliance have implemented IYSA's #EqualGame campaign. Idaho Youth Soccer has partnered with UEFA to bring #EqualGame to Idaho.#EqualGame is designed to spread the positive spirit of inclusion and amplify a clear and uplifting message about the benefits that soccer brings to the community. This new campaign aims to bring the soccer community closer together, while also ensuring that values such as inclusion, gender equality, and the fight against discrimination remain at the forefront of Idaho Youth Soccer vision and beliefs.

This vision will be accomplished through several methods:

 

TARGET #1:

INCREASE AWARENESS:EACH OF US IN THE SOCCER COMMUNITY IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PROVIDING ALL PARTICIPANTS AN INCLUSIVE, RESPECTFUL, SAFE PLACE TO PLAY THE BEAUTIFUL GAME, BUT WE HAVE NOT DONE OUR JOB. EACH OF US MUST DO BETTER TO TAKE A PROACTIVE APPROACH TO ELIMINATING DISCRIMINATORY AND ABUSIVE BEHAVIOR FROM THE GAME, THE FIRST STEP IS BEING AWARE OF ALL DISCRIMINATION AND ABUSE.

 

TARGET #2:

INCREASE ACCOUNTABILITY:TO OURSELVES, AND TO OTHERS.

 

TARGET #3:

IMPROVE REPORTING PROCEDURES:PROVIDE A CLEAR PATHWAY FOR REPORTING AS A VICTIM OR WITNESS OF ABUSE OR DISCRIMINATION DURING PARTICIPATION IN THE SPORT.

 

TARGET #4:

PROMOTE RESPECT, INCLUSION, COMMUNITY:THE GAME ITSELF TRANSCENDS BARRIERS OF ETHNICITY, AGE, GENDER, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, AND RELIGIOUS BELIEFS. SO CAN WE.

 

"Whilst everyone is different we're all united by a common passion for a sport that truly belongs to each and every one of us." Lionel Messi

 

Step #1:Target: Increase Awareness.

 

Take a moment to stop by our #EqualGame area during Directors and State Cup.

(this will be located near tournament HQ)

 

At this area you will be able to:

 

1.Let us know how you can help raise awareness and combat discrimination.

2.Take a picture using our #EqualGame backdrop and props.

3.Pick up a #EqualGame wristband.

4.Sign up to be an advocate in your club or within your team.

5.Post on social media! Tag @idyouthsoccer and use the hashtag #EqualGame to show your support!Most creative post each day wins a free tournament shirt!

 

Step #2:Target #2 Increase Accountability

 

1. A-frame's will be placed throughout the complex. Please take a moment to familiarize yourselves with these.

 

2. Police yourself, police your sidelines. If you see something, say something. Take a minute to grab a field marshal and they can assist you with helping keep the game a positive experience for players, fans, coaches and referees.

 

3. The phone is a powerful tool when used for good. If you witness someone being mistreated, document it or record it and send it to us: reportabuse@idahoyouthsoccer.org or come up to the Headquarters tent.

 

We are calling on all of those with influence to get involved and change the script. Each of us must do better to take a proactive approach to eliminate discriminatory and abusive behavior from the game. Let's get Idaho back on the nation's radar based on the story of a community that rallied together to create a safe place for our youth to play. We look forward to seeing you at the #EqualGame area at Directors and State Cup over the next two weekends!

 

Individual commitment to a group effort--that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work." Vince Lombardi

 

Sincerely,

Idaho Youth Soccer