Young 91原创 athletes aspiring to learn and grow to be professional players have a new avenue open to aid them in this quest.

The Vancouver Football Club (VFC) is partnering with Fraser Valley Soccer League (FVSL) to launch a U-19 team, which will play its inaugural matches in the 2024/25 fall season, confirmed Mark Rogers, VFC's managing director.

He called it a collaboration between two prominent Fraser Valley soccer organizations, that will allow them to combine their resources and expertise to promote the development of players, coaches, and the broader soccer community.

"This collaboration aligns with our vision of fostering a strong soccer culture in British Columbia and providing aspiring players with the pathways they need to achieve their dreams," Rogers said.

"The launch of our U-19 team is a significant step in this direction. Together, we can make a significant impact on the growth of soccer in the Fraser Valley and beyond."

Thomas Mills, executive director of FVSL, echoed these sentiments, noting how it will provide aspiring soccer players access to top-tier training programs, facilities, and coaching staff.

Both men agree this will ensure that local talent is nurtured and given the best possible chance to succeed at higher levels of competition.

"Partnering with Vancouver FC is a fantastic opportunity for our league and our players," said Mills.

"This collaboration will open up new avenues for competitive play and growth of the league, and we look forward to working closely with VFC to elevate the soccer experience in our region. The addition of the U-19 team will be a great asset for young athletes."

The roster will be composed of full-time players who will constantly play in the FVSL, as well as part-time players who will train with the squad throughout the season. Through this pathway, players will be exposed to potential development opportunities such as invitations to train with Vancouver鈥檚 professional first team throughout the Canadian Premier League (CPL) season and/or sign a professional contract with VFC. 

The selection process for the Vancouver FC鈥檚 U-19 roster will begin at an VFC August camp, which will be hosted from Wednesday to Friday, Aug. 7 to 9 at Willoughby Park at the 91原创 Event Centre. Further information on the camp, including registration details for interested players, can be found online at .

Vancouver and FVSL will be commemorating this new partnership at tonight's (Friday, July 26) home game at Willoughby Stadium in 91原创. In VFC鈥檚 16th game of the season, their Friday Night Lights match, the Eagles face off against the Calgary Cavalry FC starting at 7 p.m. So far this season, VFC has played Calgary three times. They've lost twice and tied once. The Eagles are hoping for a victory this time out.