We’ve got some exciting news to kick off today’s episode!
Jack has been nominated by our summer camp coaching staff to attend the Whitecaps FC Matchday Experience — a one-of-a-kind, professional soccer event designed to inspire the next generation of players.
Each year, standout players from Whitecaps FC camps across the country are hand-selected for this opportunity after showing exceptional team spirit, discipline, work ethic, and mentality — the very cornerstones of the Whitecaps philosophy. And this year, Jack has earned his place among them.
The experience takes place on Saturday, October 18th in Vancouver, BC, where Jack will take part in a high-energy training session, a behind-the-scenes tour of the National Soccer Development Centre, and attend the Whitecaps FC vs. FC Dallas match at BC Place.
And to top it all off — after the game, Jack and the other participants will enjoy an exclusive on-field experience, with photo ops alongside Whitecaps legend Carl Valentine and the club’s mascot, Spike.
Congratulations, Jack — what an incredible recognition and opportunity. We can’t wait to hear all about it when you return!
Malik Owolabi-Belewu, once known as Justin at our club returns to the Pod in a powerful full-circle moment.
From his early days at Whitecaps London Soccer Club based in London Ontario to playing professionally in Italy, the UK, and now as a starting centre-back with Forge FC in the Canadian Premier League, Malik has built his career with grit, resilience, and purpose.
In this special episode, recorded just before Forge FC faces the Vancouver Whitecaps in the Canada Cup, Malik opens up about the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
And what makes this even more meaningful? Over 200 of our youth players will be traveling to Hamilton to watch him take the field against his former club.
This is more than a match — it’s a moment of inspiration for every young player dreaming big.
🎙️ Hosted by Abbi Lezizidis
⏱️ 30:10-minute episode
⚽ Real stories. Real growth. Real impact.
Whitecaps London is an affiliate of the Vancouver Whitecaps of the MLS.
*** We claim no rights to any graphics, videos or images used in this podcast. All graphics approved for use by Forge FC.
Maddie is an incredible speaker. She found the right fit at St.Clair for both her love of the game and her future career. Come enjoy Maddies exciting recruiting story.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Isiah Loague is a natural talent. He loves the game. He comes from a family who love the game of soccer. Come in enjoy listening to Isiah's story and his recruitment process.
All the best at SMU in Nova Scotia.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Michaela is headed to Paris Texas. Michaela has chosen to take a couple years at Junior College to pursue here academics while focusing on growth on and off the pitch. This school might be a JUCO school yet it packs a punch on the pitch. All the best Michaela in Texas.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Victoria Monyard is heading to the United Kingdom. She will be joining IDS Sheffield Academy. This felt like the fit for the next steps in my journey. Victoria loves the game. She's both nervous and excited to become immersed in the soccer/football culture.
https://www.idasheffield.co.uk/
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Next up on the Celebration Podcast is Else Neville. Playing soccer for the Sheridan Bruins while pursuing a career in osteopathy. This is a newer four year program. We are excited to see Elise continue her both her love of the game and continue in this amazing area of academic Studies. All the best at School and on the Pitch.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Lauren is heading North this fall to become a Dental Hygienist. She is fantastic inn this podcast sharing her love of the game. She discusses how the game has shaped her and how the game continues to strengthen her friendships. She's played OPDL, Regional and College. All the best Lauren. You are in good hands at Cambrian College. We know you will make us proud both in the classroom and on the pitch.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Jordyn Sammut is heading to Trent University located in Peterborough Ontario. A player who loves the game and is passionate about every piece of the game. Her Take AWAY at the end of the pod is one the best heard to date over the six seasons of the pod. She shares her journey and kept it real through the pod. Congrats Jordyn. All the best in your academic studies and on the pitch
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Payton Lessard is heading to St. Clair College located in Windsor Ontario. Through this Pod you can feel Payton's passion for the game. Choosing Nursing in her area of academics fits well for her after seeing the amazing team of nurses who aided in the recovery of a family member. All the best Payton on the pitch and in the classroom.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
David Gomez is heading to Kingston to continue his love of the game and his academic studies at St. Lawrence College. He will be studying a three year program in Business Accounting. A current player on our OSL team St. Lawrence is lucky to have him. David all the best on your academic studies and on the pitch.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Jacquline Cardy is heading to Ontario Tech to pursue and study in the area of Biology. She's a current goalie for the U20 Railway City. FC. She shares her incredible story with such detail and passion. She loves the game and without doubt she will be successful with any path she chooses. All the best in both your academic studies and on the pitch.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Isabella Demelo is headed to Fanshawe College this fall. She will be studying Fitness and Health Promotion. This is a TWO year program. Isabella has been a force on every team she has played on. She gives 100% to the game. Isabella...All the best both on and off the pitch.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Curtis is heading to Fanshawe College to study Building and Construction. A wise choice for career as we need housing in the city and this great country. Curtis will be joining a very strong Fanshawe Men's Soccer Team. Curtis shares some great insight in to the recruiting area. His "take away" hit hard. Press start and have a listen. All the best Curtis both in the classroom and on the pitch.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Next up on the pod is Brook Piper. She's heading to Abilene Christian located in Texas to continue her love of the game and study Teaching with a major in Art and potentially move into kinesiology. She's was great on the pod offering so many insights into her recruiting journey, A great pod to learn more and the focus it takes to be recruited. Brook....all the best in your academics and on the pitch.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Heyden Grant is heading to Grambling Louisiana. Playing in the SWAC conference. NCAA D1. A very gifted player with strong football IQ. She has some amazing advice for those looking to follow in her footsteps. All the best at Grambling LA. Enjoy your time on the pitch and stay focused in the classroom too.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Today we sit with Portia Metcalfe. Portia is heading to Fanshawe College a newly developed degree program in Accounting. A dedicated player who plays on our Railway City U20 Team. Portia we wish you all the best on the Pitch and in the classroom. Congratulations!!!
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Come in and enjoy Sidney's story. A former player with Alliance FC she knew for a long time where she wanted to play post secondary soccer. No other school other than Western University located in London Ontario. Sidney found the right fit for both her soccer goals and academic studies at the Ivey School of Business. All the best Sidney.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Allie Tales was fantastic on this podcast. After various ID Camps she found the right fit at St. Clair College located in Windsor, Ontario. Look for her in the future soon fighting fires. All the best Allie.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.
Come in an listen to Nash share his awesome recruiting story. First identified at a blue chip tournament and with many schools interested he chose........(listen in). Nash will be studying criminal justice and hoping to come back to work in the field. There so much to unpack. All the best in both your athletics and academic career.
The Celebration Series is a special podcast dedicated to highlighting the incredible achievements of our players, both on and off the pitch. We celebrate those who are now pursuing their soccer dreams at the post-secondary level, recognizing their dedication, hard work, and passion. As they take the next steps in both their athletic and academic journeys, we look forward to cheering them on and sharing their inspiring stories.