Whitecaps London and Southend Recreational Soccer Club announce merger
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MEDIA RELEASE
London, ON - August 26, 2019
Whitecaps
London and Southend Recreational Soccer Club are pleased to announce a
full merger, bringing Southend’s recreational programs under Whitecaps
London’s operations effective immediately.
Southend
Recreational Soccer Club is a not-for-profit organization that has been
operating recreational soccer in the South London community since 1974.
In 2019 Southend operated with over 40 teams and approximately 650 players.
Whitecaps
London is a not-for-profit club in Southern Ontario that is part of
Ontario Soccer and the OPDL talented player pathway, with direct links
to Vancouver Whitecaps FC of Major League Soccer.
‘We
are absolutely thrilled to merge with such an outstanding club that has
been such a vital part of grassroots soccer in the south end of the
city of London for over 40 years,’ says Whitecaps London Club President
Abbi Lezizidis. ‘These children will see so many benefits of coming into
the fold of both Whitecaps London and Ontario Soccer.’
Whitecaps
London will run all the recreational programs under its umbrella
starting this winter. Recreational and competitive players will be able
to register as Whitecaps London players as Southend Recreational Soccer
Club ceases operations.
‘Southend
kids will have a unique opportunity to enjoy the Whitecaps development
programs all year round, including winter programs,’ says Southend
President Luis Santos. ‘We at Southend are very excited about this
merger.’
Whitecaps
London was awarded the National Youth Club License this year, 1 of only
39 Youth Clubs in Canada to receive this distinction. It recognizes the
Highest Possible Standards a Youth Soccer Club could have in place.
Adding a full recreational program to the club’s operations is a big
step forward.
‘This
is a great addition to our programs as we look to continue our growth,’
says Whitecaps London Technical Director Mike Ayyash. ‘We are very
happy to work with like-minded people who share the same vision as our
club and help grow the game of soccer in Southern Ontario’.
Whitecaps
London will announce dates and details for the Recreational Program and
open registrations at the end of August. Winter Recreational Programs
will start in early November with further announcements and information
meetings planned for the fall.