Highlanders FC set to debut this weekend versus Whitecaps FC

Victoria, BC - It's been a two summer hiatus since the Victoria Highlanders FC kicked a ball in summer competition. A global pandemic later, and the Highlanders find themselves about to embark on a new journey in a new league. On Sunday, May 22, the Victoria Highlanders FC face a familiar foe in Juan de Fuca Straight rivals Vancouver Whitecaps FC U19. (1:00PM WOMEN, 3:30PM MEN)

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This is the return of the Highlanders FC women's program under the stewardship of Head Coach Neil Sedwick, while the men's team will have another familiar face at the helm in Head Coach Steve Simonson. Both coaches will have a group of players with plenty of experience and ambition looking to make their mark in the newly formed League 1 BC.

League 1 BC is affiliated with League 1 Canada, which is a level of soccer that includes League 1 Ontario and the Première ligue de soccer du Québec (PLSQ). League 1 BC will bridge the gap between amateur soccer and the Canadian Premier League, while also providing athletes a standards based environment to improve and develop within.

The top teams in League 1 Canada will have the opportunity to compete in the Canadian Championship, potentially drawing against a Canadian Premier League or Major League Soccer side.

"This is an exciting time for soccer in Canada and an exciting time for soccer at this level," commented co-owner Brett Large. "The purpose is to help elevate local players and provide a platform for them to showcase their abilities. It is a community club with community players, supported by community businesses. This is exactly what this level is about and we're looking forward to watching the teams on the field."

The Vancouver Whitecaps FC U19 will be a good first test for the untested Highlanders player a they look to get a result on the road this weekend. The game will be played at NSDC - Ken Woods Field. The last time these two clubs faced each other was when the Highlanders residency program played the Whitecaps U23 on March 12, 2019. The Highlanders residency earning a hard fought 1-0 victory.

The Highlanders home opener will be against the same rival, Vancouver Whitecaps FC U19 on June 5th at Centennial Stadium. (2:00PM WOMEN, 4:00PM MEN).

Season tickets are now available for only $75 adult, and $50 student or senior. Kids 16 and under get in for FREE. Support local soccer by purchasing your season tickets today. http://www.highlandersfc.ca/tickets