Toronto FC announced today the launch of an innovative and interpersonal mentorship program that will closely connect players in the TFC Academy with the club’s professional players.

“I am very excited about launching the mentorship program,” said Toronto FC General Manager Ali Curtis. “We believe that the program will help connect our academy players to our professionals in a meaningful way. As we continue our on-the-field efforts to develop young, local talent, the mentorship program is also focused on areas of development that benefit our younger players away from the training ground.”

The purpose of the program is to provide TFC Academy players with off-field development opportunities that will equip them to navigate systemic barriers facing youth today. Additionally, the program will create a safe space that fosters mutual sharing, positive relationships and strong networks of support that help academy players reach their full potential.

Jason Bent, Jason Hernandez and Jeremy Hall will serve in key roles within the program. Bent, an assistant coach with the first team and Hernandez, the Club’s Manager for Player Engagement will serve as program heads. Hall, the TFC Academy U-14 head coach and Arthur Casupanan, executive assistant to the general manager, will serve as program advisors.

First team and TFC II players who participate in the program will be placed in mentorship groups with three to four Academy players. Also included in the program is a speaker series, where guest speakers will focus on topics such as leadership, resilience, and perseverance.

“The diversity of our club is a competitive advantage,” said Curtis. “We are a club that is diverse in thought, ideas, experiences, ethnicities, and nationalities. The more we share stories and experiences, the stronger we will become as individuals and collectively as a club.”

The program is expected to launch after the 2020 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs