Ontario’s governing body for amateur football.
Football Ontario is the provincial sport organization (PSO) for football, recognized by the Government of Ontario and endorsed by Football Canada. Here’s what that means, and why it matters when you choose where to play.
What is a PSO?
Provincial sport organizations are not-for-profit, self-governing organizations formally recognized by Ontario’s Ministry of Sport as the governing body of an amateur sport. Their main job is developing athletes, coaches and officials.
What Football Ontario does
As football’s PSO, we are responsible for the sport across the province.
Develop the sport
Grow football across Ontario and encourage participation in recreational and competitive programs.
Build the pathway
Provide a competitive pathway for athlete development, from first program to provincial level.
Select Team Ontario
Select and support provincial teams that represent Ontario nationally.
Train people
Recruit and train coaches, officials and volunteers, using NCCP certification.
Run championships
Conduct provincial championships across tackle and flag football.
Follow national rules
Operate within Football Canada’s rules and national standards.
Look for the logo
Football Ontario makes sure every member club operates within Football Canada’s and the Ontario government’s rules.
See this logo on a community association or league?
It means they are a Football Ontario member, and you can expect:
Play with a recognized club. Only Football Ontario members can play on provincial teams and represent Ontario.
What it takes to be recognized
Ontario’s Sport Recognition Policy sets the standard every PSO must meet, and keep meeting.
A not-for-profit with a member-elected board, bylaws and policies reviewed at least every three years, a multi-year strategic plan and a public annual general meeting.
Policies on code of conduct, discipline, dispute resolution, harassment, concussion, accessibility, inclusion, social media and parent conduct, plus risk-based screening.
An annual letter of endorsement from Football Canada naming Football Ontario as the sport’s governing body in Ontario.
Detailed budgets, an accountant’s financial review or audit, and at least $2 million in liability insurance.
Long-Term Athlete Development models, NCCP-certified coaches and officials endorsed by the national body.
See it for yourself. List of recognized provincial sport organizations ↗ · Ontario Sport Recognition Policy ↗
Source: Government of Ontario, Ministry of Sport. Our mission and strategic plan → · Policies & governing documents →
Last reviewed: October 2026