Richmond Girls Soccer Association is holding a College Showcase game on Thursday night with the idea it will become an annual event.
The match, slated for 7:30 p.m. at Hugh Boyd, will feature RGSA’s U18 and U17 talent and is expected to attract coaches and representatives from a number of post-secondary programs.
Several Richmond-raised products played at the CIS level last season, including Amelia Crawford and Emma Kallner with the UBC Thunderbirds, while the University of Calgary featured Emma Partridge and Montana Leonard.
There was also no shortage of Lulu Island talent at the collegiate level. The Langara Falcons roster included Chelsea Simpkins, Hannah Partridge and Tessa Tasaka.
“We are trying to grow the game as well as open up new opportunities for our graduating youth players,” explained RGSA chair Mandhir Punia. “This game falls in line with our vision and it’s not just about playing soccer at the next level.”
Punia added RGSA currently has three graduate teams playing in the Women’s Metro Soccer League and that number will increase to five next season.
“The idea is to create a pathway for our players regardless of what level they want to continue at,” he said.
RGSA will also be holding its first-ever Awards Night Gala, in celebration of its players, on April 6 at the River Rock Resort.
