Introduction – A Weekend to Remember
There are moments in the life of every soccer club that define its journey. For Sefa Soccer Academy, that moment came over the long weekend of April 18-19, when our 2012 Select Team stormed into the CanMEx soccer tournament on Vancouver Island—and left as champions.
Held in the scenic city of Victoria and organized by Pacific FC, a top-tier Canadian Premier League (CPL) team, this tournament wasn’t just another event. It was an opportunity to showcase the talent, passion, and unity that Sefa Soccer Academy embodies. And let’s be honest—our kids didn’t just play. They dominated.
What is the CanMEx Soccer Tournament?
The CanMEx tournament is a unique platform where Canadian and Mexican soccer cultures collide. It’s more than a competition—it’s a celebration of youth soccer development across North America. Hosted by Pacific FC, who are no strangers to the big leagues, the event brings together clubs from various regions, challenging young players to level up their skills on a bigger stage.
This year’s event was particularly exciting, featuring a newly formed Mexican team from Pacific FC, showcasing talent from south of the border. It was the perfect proving ground for Sefa’s young stars.
Meet the 2012 Select Team
Our 2012 Select Team is a special group. Made up of boys and girls aged 11–12, they represent the very best of what our soccer academy in Coquitlam has to offer. But beyond skill, these kids bring heart, teamwork, and discipline to the field every single time.
They train hard, play harder, and never back down from a challenge. It’s no wonder they left such a lasting impression at the tournament.
Journey to Victory: Game by Game Recap
Let’s break down our path to the trophy:
- Game 1: vs. Supra
We came out strong, pressing high and controlling the tempo. Our midfielders were on fire, setting up key plays that led to a solid win. - Game 2: vs. Bay United
A tough matchup, but our defense stood tall. Our goalie made some incredible saves, and a late goal sealed the deal. - Game 3: vs. Pacific FC Mexican Team
This was the match everyone was watching. The Mexican side was technical and fast, but we adapted brilliantly. With a mix of smart tactics and sheer willpower, our team clinched a dramatic win. - Game 4 Final: vs. Van Isle Wave
- Game 4 Final: vs. Supra Academy
The Final Match – A Show of Skill and Spirit
In the finals, everything clicked. The passes were crisp, the communication flawless, and the style of play—pure Sefa. From the first whistle to the final goal, our players performed with maturity beyond their years.
It wasn’t just about winning. It was about playing beautiful soccer—and yes, we heard that phrase a lot from coaches and spectators alike.
Compliments and Recognition from the Soccer Community
After the matches, we received a flood of compliments. Coaches from rival teams, even Pacific FC’s technical management, went out of their way to praise our players’ creativity, discipline, and sportsmanship.
For a youth soccer club, this kind of recognition is gold. It reinforces what we already know: we’re on the right path.