Local soccer players will be able to enhance their skills thanks to an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant.

The York Region Soccer Association aims to adhere to the Canadian Soccer Association’s mandate for long-term player development using the grant, worth $202,000 over three years.

The association applied for the grant in July and received word its request was successful in November, president Lucille Abate said.

While elated by the news, Abate said it did not come as a surprise based on the application.

“This is an overwhelming experience for our district to receive a grant to support our vision and new direction,” she said. “The grant will allow us to embrace new programming on a virtual platform and eliminate traditional barriers that impede progress.”

In receiving the grant, Abate revealed the association already has specific plans on how the funding will be used over the three-year period.

The association applied for the funding to support a full-time technical director position.

The director will guide and assist member clubs in adapting to the Canada Soccer Association’s long-term player development program, she said.

“Along with enhancing the skills and knowledge of volunteer coaches, clinics and camp programs for children will be offered that will increase participation and reduce drop out rates," she said.

Formed in 1982, the local association has more than 40,000 registrants.