York United FC can also reveal that the limited edition Pride Kits worn by the matchday squad for the upcoming Pride Game on Friday, June 9 at York Lions Stadium will be signed and immediately auctioned. All subsequent proceeds will be donated to Pflag Canada York Region, the local community's 2SLGBTQ+ support, resource and education network.

The auction will go live on Tuesday, June 13 and will run through Friday, June 30. More details will follow shortly.

"We are absolutely thrilled about this fundraising initiative," says Tristan Coolman, President of Pflag Canada York Region.

"Pflag Canada York Region is entirely volunteer-led. We’re proud of the advocacy efforts we’ve led over the last few years and the partnerships it has attracted. But it’s not just about the money. We’re proud to partner with organizations who 'get it'. The York United Pride Jersey was thoughtfully created with queer spaces in mind. Its map of the Church-Wellesley Village is an example of the commitments York United has undertaken with learning and deepening their connection with queer communities and spaces. This is one piece of Pride merch I’ll be proud to own. And you should too."

That means three 2SLGBTQ+ organizations will benefit from York United FC's 2023 Pride initiatives. Thanks to Volkswagen Canada - matchday sponsors for the Pride Game on June 9th - a donation will be made to The 519 from every ticket sold to the fixture.

Since the mid-1970s, The 519 has served as the hub of Toronto's gay community and blossomed into a multi-purpose space that provides much-needed support, services and initiatives.

"The launch of the 2023 Pride Kit was a special moment for the club but it's one part of a wider commitment," says Eoin O'Callaghan, Vice President of Content and Communication Strategy at York United FC.

"It's a priority to properly immerse ourselves and stand alongside the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Delving into the fascinating history, sharing compelling stories and giving a platform to such important organizations - so many of them relying heavily on the work of passionate volunteers - is crucial to us. Ultimately, it's the least we can do. Our hope is that our Pride Match on Friday, June 9 at York Lions Stadium will be a true celebration of solidarity and our goal is to continue our allyship in perpetuity."

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