KNVB WorldCoaches Launch World Cup 2026 Legacy Initiative in Canada

The initiative reflects the broader ambition of the KNVB to ensure that the impact of the World Cup extends far beyond the pitch, creating lasting social impact in host countries. - Foto: KNVB Media

With the FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, KNVB WorldCoaches has taken an important step in building a meaningful tournament legacy. During the FIFA Congress in Vancouver, the programme delivered a special coaching course for members of the indigenous Tsleil-Waututh and Squamish Nations, combining football with life skills and facilitating cultural connection.

The initiative reflects the broader ambition of the KNVB to ensure that the impact of the World Cup extends far beyond the pitch, creating lasting social impact in host countries.

Uniting Sport, Culture, and Personal Growth

The course brought together participants from the Tsleil-Waututh Nation and focused on the WorldCoaches philosophy, using football as a tool to promote personal development, health, and social cohesion.

The session was attended by several distinguished guests, including KNVB President Frank Paauw, KNVB CEO of Professional Football Marianne van Leeuwen, and Dutch Consul General in Vancouver Sebastiaan Messerschmidt. 

During the visit, they witnessed firsthand how football can unite people, foster connections, and teach skills for life. Marianne van Leeuwen witnessed the impact of the event first-hand: "Football unites, and it can also unite within this community."

Aligning with First Nations Values

For participants, the course carried deep cultural meaning. Hillary Hyland, one of the attendees, emphasized how the programme resonated strongly with First Nations principles. "Being able to encourage a healthy lifestyle holistically, both on and off the field through football and life skills, is really important", Hyland said.

The WorldCoaches approach, focusing on development on and off the pitch, proved to align closely with the values of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. These shared values led to valuable lessons learned by the participants on reinforcing community, identity, and well-being.

Creating a Lasting World Cup Legacy

Through initiatives like this course, KNVB WorldCoaches aims to contribute to a broader and more sustainable legacy for the FIFA World Cup 2026. By working directly with local communities, the programme seeks to create local, inclusive, and long-term social impact.

This approach demonstrates how football can act as a powerful catalyst for positive change, supporting communities in ways that go far beyond the game itself.

As preparations for the World Cup continue, projects like the one in Vancouver highlight the potential of sport to connect cultures and inspire development worldwide.

Our football paints the world orange