VANCOUVER, BC – Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Kelowna City FC announced a new partnership on Friday as part of the Network Partner Program.
The Whitecaps FC Network Partner Program is focused on the continued development of soccer talent in Canada. The program provides clubs and associations across Canada with the opportunity to team up with the Whitecaps to grow and develop their soccer operations. Network Partner clubs’ benefit through technical services, curriculum, coach development, exclusive insider access to events, and developmental pathway opportunities.
“We’re thrilled to establish our relationship with Kelowna City FC, the first member of our Network Partner Program based in the Okanagan,” said Axel Schuster, Whitecaps FC sporting director. “The work being done at the grassroots level is of enormous importance to the growth of the sport across Canada, and KCFC aims to make a significant impact in the Okanagan. We’re looking forward to working together.”
Kelowna City FC is a newly established club in the Okanagan and will look to provide soccer programming for players as young as U-4 and will continue to grow and provide programming for players of all ages and levels. Player development being the main pillar of the club, many training opportunities will become available for players to grow and showcase their abilities in the years to come.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with a club of the stature of Vancouver Whitecaps FC to provide a premiere soccer experience for youth in the Okanagan region," added Kelowna City FC co-owner Ezra Cremers. "Kelowna City FC has been created to provide a holistic, athlete-centred approach to youth soccer development and with access to Whitecaps Coaches, Curriculum and Infrastructure, it will help to accelerate athlete development in the region as well as providing phenomenal opportunities and experiences for players and parents. Our goal is to provide the best environment and coaching for players, regardless of age & ability and to provide them with the support and tools to both fall in love with the game and to develop their abilities. We’re excited to have a trusted partner to work with to attain these goals and we’re thrilled to be a part of the vibrant Okanagan Soccer community.”
Whitecaps FC BMO Okanagan Academy head coach Ariel Gitz will work with the club as technical director.
For more information on the Whitecaps FC Network Partner Program, visit whitecapsfc.com/networkpartner.
