By: Mahboob Gulestani (Co-Founder of Canadian Afghan Sports Association)
June 9, 2025
As Canada’s soccer landscape evolves rapidly (current FIFA ranking 30th), platforms like League1 Canada are emerging as vital pathways for developing young talent across the country. Among the many communities benefiting from this growth, the Afghan-Canadian population stands out as a group with immense passion for soccer, yet historically limited opportunities. League1 Canada’s expansion and inclusive development model are proving instrumental in not only nurturing Afghan soccer players but also in reshaping their futures and identities in Canada.
A Growing Afghan Presence in Canadian Soccer
Afghan-Canadians, many of whom are refugees or first-generation immigrants, bring with them a deep cultural love for the game. Soccer in Afghan communities is more than just a sport — it’s a unifier, a vehicle for self-expression, and a means to reclaim hope amidst challenges. However, systemic barriers such as limited access to elite training, cultural marginalization, and financial constraints have often left Afghan youth on the sidelines of Canada’s soccer development system.
That’s where League1 Canada plays a transformative role.
League1 Canada: A Pathway of Opportunity
League1 Canada serves as the national pro-am development league structure, with regional divisions in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta and Québec. It acts as a crucial bridge between grassroots soccer and professional leagues like the Canadian Premier League (CPL) or even Major League Soccer (MLS).
For Afghan players, League1 Canada represents:
- Visibility and Validation:
Being scouted or competing at the League1 level offers Afghan players a legitimate stage to showcase their talents. It also helps to counter stereotypes by proving they can perform at the highest national standards.
- Cultural Integration:
League1’s clubs, many rooted in diverse urban centers, offer culturally inclusive environments. This fosters not only player development but also community cohesion and identity affirmation.
- Professional Pathways:
Talented Afghan players can now move from youth soccer through League1 and into professional systems. This kind of pathway was often out of reach a decade ago.
- Role Models for the Next Generation:
Players like Thomas Safari, Adam Rustami, and Paiman Sultani were scouted for Afghanistan's National Team early this year. They already played in an international friendly game against Thailand back on Mar.21.2025 and now they will be part of the roster for the Afghanistan vs Syria game on June 10th, 2025 (AFC Asian Cup qualification).
Thomas Safari teams/leagues: University of Montreal (OUA), League1 Quebec, Toronto Pamir SC (local Afghan team)
Adam Rustami teams/leagues: ANB Futbol Academy, Maris College (NCAA D1), Vaughan Azzuri (League1 Ontario), UNGC Spartans (NCAA D1), Toronto Parmi SC (local Afghan team).
Paiman Sultani teams/leagues: Seneca College (OCAA), Vaughan Azzuri 2022-23 & Scrosoppi FC 2024-25 (League1 Ontario), Toronto Pamir SC (local Afghan team)
There are also many other Afghan Canadians who currently play for different League1 teams across Canada.
- Hafiz Mahjor (League1 Alberta)
- Soliman Aria (League1 Alberta)
- Mudaser Muhtaj (League1 Ontario)
- Azim Taher (League1 Ontario)
- Noah Rustami (League1 Ontario)
- Salim Eliasy (League1 Quebec)
- Nabil Hakim (League1 Ontario)
- Anfal Ekhlas (League1 Ontario)
- Massud Habibullah (League1 BC)
- And many more…
Community Impact and Representation
The presence of Afghan players in League1 Canada goes beyond personal success. It represents community upliftment. For many Afghan families, watching their children excel in an official semi-pro or pro environment breaks historical cycles of displacement, trauma, and underrepresentation.
It also provides a powerful narrative: Afghan youth are not just adapting to Canada; they’re helping shape its soccer future.
A Call for Continued Investment
If Canadian soccer is to truly become a reflection of its diverse population, then structures like League1 Canada must continue investing in underrepresented communities. This includes outreach programs in Afghan-heavy neighborhoods, coaching opportunities for Afghan-Canadians, and financial aid to help players overcome pay-to-play barriers.
Final Thoughts
League1 Canada is more than just a league. It’s a launchpad for dreams, particularly for communities like Afghan-Canadians who bring untapped potential and rich soccer heritage. As the sport continues to grow in Canada, integrating and uplifting Afghan talent isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s essential to the game’s future.
By fostering inclusion, development, and opportunity, League1 Canada is not only building better players — it’s helping build a stronger, more representative Canadian soccer identity.
Author’s Note: Afghan-Canadian communities continue to face social and economic hurdles, but soccer is proving to be a tool for empowerment. League1 Canada has the chance — and the responsibility — to help turn this passion into professional potential.
