Celebrating the supporters who make AFC Toronto stronger

Since AFC Toronto's very first game, queer, trans and non-binary soccer lovers have rallied under the mighty maroon.

In the stands, you'll find Pride flags waving alongside club scarves, chosen families celebrating together and supporters creating a sense of belonging that extends far beyond matchday. These fans help shape the atmosphere, culture and community that make AFC Toronto what it is.

This Pride Month, we wanted to celebrate some of the people who have helped build that community.

To bring these stories to life, AFC Toronto partnered with Toronto-based queer writer Kevin Hurren, whose work explores identity, culture and community. Through a series of conversations with queer and gender-diverse supporters, Kevin captured the experiences, challenges and moments of joy that have shaped their relationship with the game and with AFC Toronto.

The stories featured in this series are deeply personal, but they share a common thread: the power of belonging. They remind us that soccer is about more than what happens on the pitch. It's about the people who show up, support one another and help create a community where everyone can feel at home.

Meet the supporters behind Pride Off The Pitch:

Abby: Willing to Go the Distance, Literally

From four-hour round trips to away-day adventures across the country, Abby's dedication to AFC Toronto knows few limits. But for her, supporting the club is about far more than soccer—it's about family, friendship and building inclusive spaces for others. See story here. 

Gill: A Supporter Space Built By Us, For Us

Long before AFC Toronto played its first match, Gill was helping lay the foundations for the kind of supporter culture she always wished existed. Today, she's helping create a community rooted in belonging, solidarity and joy. See story here.

Val & Kylie: Falling Back in Love With Soccer—and Each Other

After stepping away from sport while navigating their identities, Val and Kylie found their way back through community, connection and AFC Toronto. Their story is one of rediscovering a love for the game and finding a place where they can fully be themselves. See story here.

These stories represent just a few of the many queer and gender-diverse supporters who make AFC Toronto what it is. To everyone who has helped build this community: thank you for making our club stronger.

Check out the campaign on Instagram, @afctoronto, see here.