Taylor Fleming is the Manager of the Recreation Program at North Toronto Soccer and explains what her job entails and how the program benefits the local community.
What is the Recreation Program at North Toronto Soccer?
The program includes House League, Select, Special Olympics, School Program, and Summer Camp/Academy. With the help from the great full-time and part-time staff that make this program so successful, we try to create a safe and fun environment for youth to experience soccer.
What does your role involve on a day-to-day basis?
My day-to-day responsibilities vary depending on what time of year it is. My days can involve planning, emails, meetings, or coaching on the field, and I am currently preparing for the spring season which has a variety of important components to it.
I have hosted group on-field interviews, multiple staff training and onboarding sessions, and have begun to plan the staff schedule for the season. Additionally, I make sure that the correct equipment and supplies are prepared and ready at the Club House for the season to begin.
Why is your role and the program as a whole important to you, and to the community?
My role as Recreation Manager is important to me because my daily responsibilities and work efforts all go towards providing our community with the opportunity to play soccer in a fun and safe environment. This program brings people together from different backgrounds and ages to engage in shared activity to form social connections, improve communication and teamwork skills, create a sense of togetherness, and allows individuals of all abilities to engage in physical activity and develop their healthy lifestyle.
Players develop important life skills such as self-discipline, perseverance, and goal-setting, which can be transferred to other areas of life, such as education, career, and personal relationships.
How did you get into soccer and your current role at North Toronto Soccer?
Growing up, I played competitive soccer at North Toronto Soccer. I was fortunate enough to form lifelong friendships and a love for the game during that time. I then began to coach within the club and now have transitioned to my current position within the Recreation Program.
My passion for soccer, youth development through sport, and this club are what make me love my role.
What’s something that a lot of people don’t know about the Recreation Program at North Toronto Soccer?
A lot of people might not know how many moving parts are involved in this program. Without the help of Elaine, our Recreation Administrator, Adrian, our Head Referee, and our 100-plus recreation staff members and volunteers, this program wouldn’t be what it is. It heavily relies on communication and dedication, and I couldn’t thank our hard-working team enough.
What are your tips for anyone aspiring to take up a similar role to you, or looking for a career in sport?
Follow your passions. It is very important for a work culture to have multi-disciplinary professionals collaborate towards a common goal, and the sports industry needs people with different backgrounds, skills, and education, to fill all the moving parts.
What are your aspirations for people involved with the Recreation Program at North Toronto Soccer?
My main aspiration for the players and staff involved in the Recreation Program is to create an atmosphere that brings fun and soccer together. I would like the players, parents, game leaders, and referees to feel excited to come to the field and have them leave with smiles on their faces.
Why North Toronto Soccer, and what makes this club special?
North Toronto Soccer has provided me the opportunity to develop valuable life skills on and off the field. These skills have stuck with me over the years and have helped me complete my bachelor’s degree and now work in a challenging, yet very meaningful role.
The club provides so many positions for young individuals to develop skills contributing to strong leadership and organization. Whether it is coaching, refereeing, or helping with operations, the club will find a position that fits well with individual personality and interests. I continue to be drawn to the culture of the club created by the friendly and very passionate staff all working together to create the best soccer experience for everyone.
