Turks and Caicos Islands Football Leaders Join Regional Dialogue on the Future of Inclusive Grassroots Football at Concacaf Charter Conference

Concacaf successfully hosted its inaugural Grassroots Charter Conference in Sint Maarten on May 12-13, bringing together football leaders, technical experts, and development stakeholders from across the region to strengthen grassroots football and expand access to the game for all communities.

The conference centered around the implementation and promotion of the Concacaf Grassroots Charter, an initiative designed to support Member Associations in building structured, inclusive, and sustainable grassroots football programs. The Charter establishes a regional framework and standards for grassroots development, emphasizing participation, player well-being, coach education, safeguarding, inclusivity, and long-term player engagement.

Through the Charter, Concacaf aims to ensure that football environments across the region are safe, enjoyable, development-focused, and accessible to boys and girls of all backgrounds and abilities. The initiative also encourages Member Associations to strengthen community outreach, increase opportunities for women and girls, and use football as a vehicle for social development and positive change.

Representing the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association at the conference were Acting General Secretary Candia Ewing and Technical Director Dane Ritchie, both of whom participated in collaborative discussions focused on the growth and future of grassroots football across the Caribbean.

Ms. Ewing participated as a featured panelist during a session focused on increasing participation in grassroots football and creating more inclusive football environments throughout the region. The discussion explored strategies for breaking down barriers to participation and ensuring that football remains accessible and welcoming to all.

Speaking during the panel discussion, Ms. Ewing highlighted the wider social impact of grassroots football and the importance of ensuring that girls and women feel seen, valued, and included within the sport.

“Grassroots football is about far more than the game itself,” said Ewing. “It is about creating spaces where every child, every family, and every community member feels that they belong. Football has the power to unite people from different backgrounds, cultures, and circumstances, and that power becomes even stronger when inclusion is placed at the center of development.”

She continued, “The Concacaf Grassroots Charter is important because it reminds us that football must be accessible to everyone. Whether a child dreams of becoming a professional player or simply wants the opportunity to participate, build friendships, gain confidence, and be part of something positive, they should have that chance. Our responsibility as football leaders is to create environments where people feel welcomed, supported, and inspired through the game.”

Mr. Ritchie also shared insights into the implementation of Bigger Game Academy, highlighting the academy’s role in youth development within the Turks and Caicos Islands. His contribution showcased how structured grassroots initiatives can foster player development, encourage lifelong participation in football, and strengthen community engagement.

The conference provided Member Associations with the opportunity to exchange ideas, share best practices, and align on the future direction of grassroots football throughout the Concacaf region. It also offered MAs the opportunity to assess their current circumstances and engage in reflection, enabling them to take proactive steps toward improving future outcomes.

By launching the Grassroots Charter Conference, Concacaf continues to demonstrate its commitment to expanding football opportunities and supporting Member Associations in building strong foundations for the future of the game across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.