Inclusive Programs
Inclusive Programs
At United Dartmouth Football Club (UDFC), we believe soccer should be accessible to everyone. Our inclusive programs are designed to remove barriers, create welcoming environments, and provide opportunities for participants of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to enjoy the game.
Special Olympics Program
United DFC is proud to partner with Special Olympics Nova Scotia to offer a dedicated soccer program for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Participants train in a supportive, inclusive environment that emphasizes skill development, teamwork, confidence, and enjoyment of the game.
Program Information
- Weekly training sessions
- Open to eligible Special Olympics athletes
- Focus on skill development, teamwork, and fun
For more information, please contact info@udfc.ca.
Special Olympics Nova Scotia: https://www.specialolympicsns.ca
Tri-Preston Area Mini Program
The Tri-Preston Area Mini Program is a free community initiative designed for children U4-U12.
The program introduces young players to soccer in a fun, safe, and encouraging environment where they can develop fundamental skills, build confidence, and enjoy being active. Sessions emphasize participation, sportsmanship, and creating a lifelong love of the game.
Program Highlights
- FREE program
- Ages U4-U12
- Jerseys and soccer balls provided
- Fun, player-centred learning environment
- Summer programming
For program details and registration information, please contact info@udfc.ca.
ISANS Partnership
United DFC is proud to work alongside the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) to help newcomers become involved in soccer and the local community.
Through this partnership, we strive to make soccer welcoming and accessible for new Canadians by providing guidance and support throughout the registration process.
For more information, please contact:
Learn more about ISANS: https://isans.ca
Le Coup d'envoi / The Kick-Off
A Free French-Language Soccer Experience
Le Coup d'envoi (The Kick-Off) is a unique French-immersive soccer program created for children aged 8-11 in the Dartmouth community.
Made possible through funding from Soccer Nova Scotia's IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility) Initiative, this program combines technical soccer development with French-language immersion in an engaging and supportive environment.
Participants improve their soccer skills while building confidence through cultural exchange and communication in French.
Program Highlights
- FREE Program
- Ages 8-11
- Fully French-language environment
- Technical skill development
- Inclusive and welcoming atmosphere
Program Details
When: Wednesdays | 7:00 PM - 8:15 PM
Duration: 7-week program
Location: Craig Blake PO2 Soccer Field
Closing Event
Participants will celebrate the program with a friendly tournament featuring clubs from:
- Clare
- Chéticamp
- Dieppe, NB
For additional information, please contact info@udfc.ca.
Beginner Women's & Men's Kick Around
Program Overview
United DFC's Beginner Kick Around program provides adults with an opportunity to enjoy soccer in a welcoming, pressure-free environment.
Whether you're completely new to the game or returning after many years away, this program focuses on developing fundamental skills, improving fitness, and building confidence while enjoying the social side of soccer.
The program welcomes women, men, and gender-diverse participants of all ages, fitness levels, and playing experience.
Our goal is simple: create a fun, supportive community where everyone feels comfortable learning and enjoying the game.
Program Details
Location
Astral Drive Grass Field
Program Length
10-12 Weeks
Registration Fee
- $100
- $50 for United DFC Volunteers
Women's Beginner Kick Around
Day: Mondays
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Lead Coaches
- Heather Wayne
- Angela Fitzgerald
Contact
info@udfc.ca
Men's Beginner Kick Around
Day: Sundays
Time: 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Lead Coach
John Z
Contact
johnz@udfc.ca
Registration
To register:
- Visit the registration portal.
- Sign in or create a RAMP account.
- Select Participants.
- Choose the current Summer Beginner Kick Around season.
- Complete your registration and payment.
Registration Portal
https://www.rampregistrations.com/login?v3=0cbce4a675
Early registration is encouraged as spaces are limited.
For additional information about any of our inclusive programs, please contact info@udfc.ca or call (902) 404-8332.
Quiet Soccer
United DFC's Quiet Soccer Program is an award-winning inclusive program designed for children aged 5-12 who benefit from a calmer, less crowded soccer environment. With fewer players and distractions, sessions focus on skill development, physical literacy, confidence, and supported social interaction in a safe and welcoming space.
The program is open to all players, with optional parent participation based on each child's comfort level. Sessions are supported by United DFC staff and volunteers using consistent, age-appropriate training plans that help every participant feel successful.
Program Highlights
- Ages 5-12 (Born 2014-2021)
- Co-ed program
- One session per week (35-45 minutes)
- No evaluations - all children are welcome
- Tim Hortons jersey, shorts, socks, soccer ball, and medal included
Training Locations
Dartmouth High
- Sundays | 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM
Eastern Passage - Seaside
- Mondays | 7:00 PM - 7:45 PM
Registration
To register, log in to your United DFC RAMP account and select 2026 Summer under Season.
Recognition
🏆 Proud recipient of the Soccer Nova Scotia Innovative Award for creating an inclusive soccer experience where every child can enjoy the game in a supportive environment.
For more information, please contact info@udfc.ca.
