Programs
Orange Jersey Program
Reconciliation through sport. Every jersey tells a story.
The Orange Jersey Program (OJP) is a national youth program of the Orange Shirt Society.
It encourages young athletes to learn about the legacy of Indian residential schools and to lead reconciliation efforts through sport, education, and community action.
How It Started
The Orange Jersey Program, began with Tyler Fuller, a former professional hockey player from Kawacatoose First Nation, who was moved to act after the discovery of 215 unmarked graves in Kamloops. Inspired to raise awareness through sport, Tyler connected with Phyllis Webstad, co-founder of Orange Shirt Day – Every Child Matters, and together they launched a national movement.
With support from Indigenous & Non-Indigenous NHL alumni, and an inaugural jersey auction, the project grew rapidly into it’s own program. Over three seasons, OJP has evolved into a cross-country initiative blending sport, education, and truth & reconciliation for thousands of youth.
Led by Survivors and Their Families
The program is grounded in the legacy of Phyllis Webstad and guided by the next generation. Her son, Jeremy Boston, serves as Director of the Orange Jersey Program, bringing lived experience and a deep commitment to truth-telling through sport. Alongside him, Michael Hails supports program delivery and education design as Assistant Program Manager.
“As a mother, a survivor, and someone who has dedicated my life to sharing the truth, I feel a deep sense of pride watching my son Jeremy carry this work forward. The Orange Jersey Project is more than jerseys—it’s about teaching our young people the real history of this land.”
Phyllis Webstad
Program Highlights
Youth Team Registration
Teams in hockey, football, and lacrosse can register to receive official orange jerseys, sponsored by national partners. In return, athletes complete the OJP Education Portal, an age-appropriate, online course developed with Elders and educators.
Every Child Matters Games
Teams across Canada host commemorative games to honour Survivors, their families, and those that never made it home. These games educate fans, and promote healing through sport. These community-led events are supported by a digital toolkit and offer a chance to stand up for truth, not just suit up.
Player Education Portal
The online learning platform offers three tailored paths. Athletes receive a certificate of completion and continue their learning journey beyond the game.
- Ages 7–9: Gentle, story-based learning
- Ages 10–13: Interactive activities and reflections
- Ages 14–18: Deeper engagement with history and Survivor stories
Pathmakers Leadership Program
Designed for Junior, U18AAA, and College-level athletes, this program invites young leaders to take their commitment further through volunteer mentorship, local workshops, and cultural education.
Impact
Real Impact
Since its launch, OJP has delivered over 75,000 jerseys to youth teams across Canada.
The program has hosted numerous Every Child Matters Games and directly supports the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action related to youth, sport, and cultural inclusion.
65
K
Hockey Jerseys
6
K
Lacrosse Jerseys
4.5
K
Football Jerseys
Why Sport?
Sport builds more than skills, it shapes character, community, and connection. Through teamwork, discipline, and shared goals, youth develop confidence and resilience. For Indigenous communities, sport has long been a bridge between generations, offering healing and unity.
The Orange Jersey Project uses sport as an entry point for deeper learning, directly aligning with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #90, which calls for inclusive, culturally relevant athletic programmes.
Contact the Orange Jersey Project Team
Have questions or want to bring the Athlete Leadership Program to your team? Start a local workshop? Looking to Sponsor us? Reach out to our team directly.
