Guelph Soccer Hosts AGM & Club Awards

Guelph, ON – The Guelph Soccer Club hosted its Annual General Meeting of Members this morning at the Italian Canadian Club in Guelph.

The morning began with a Volunteer Breakfast to thank those who have contributed to the success of Guelph Soccer. Following the AGM, Guelph Soccer hosted its annual Club Awards ceremony, where several individuals were recognized for their accomplishments during the 2022-23 season.

The awards and recipients were recognized as follows:

Outstanding Youth Player of the Year – District:

Odessa Hagen – She was a member of the Guelph Jr. Gryphons Black 2007 District team. Not only was she the leading scorer, but she led by example by showing commitment and dedication by attending all games, and tournaments as well as training sessions. She supported her teammates throughout the year on and off the field.

Zeyad Hendricks – He played a key role in 2023 for both the L5 and L3 BU13 teams. He consistently demonstrated his leadership qualities, regardless of which team he played for. He constantly asks for feedback on how he can improve as a player. As a goalkeeper, he takes every single goal personally, but he never blames his teammates. He plays with a positive attitude and is always encouraging the players around him.

Outstanding Youth Player of the Year – Academy:

Gianna De Maria – She was a member of the U14 Academy team. A leader on and off the field, the team had considerable success throughout the year. As team captain, she demonstrated a positive attitude towards teammates and opponents. She even passes on her passion for the sport by assisting with an U10 girls’ team.

Ewan Williams – He was selected as co-captain of BU15 Academy team. He stepped into that role and did an excellent job motivating the team, leading the pre-game mindfulness focus, and the second half pep talk. As a versatile player, he was asked to change positions for various reasons to benefit the team. As a strong, reliable center-back, he played in a physical style, but in a sportsmanlike manner.

Outstanding Youth Player of the Year – Regional:

Brooke Pembleton – She played for the GU15 L3 Regional team, earning the respect of her teammates due to her work ethic, and understanding of her role within the team. Her passion for soccer was evident thanks to her commitment to the team, and her own skill improvement. She displayed fair play and sportsmanship throughout the season.

Sam Poloni – He played for the BU13 L3 Regional team, and remains dedicated to growing, learning, and developing his soccer skills throughout his time with the club. His teammates recognize his relentless commitment to the game, and he continues to show tremendous leadership week in and week out as he values team success over individual success.

Referee of the Year:

Chloe Weeks – She communicates excellently with players, coaches, and mentors, both on- and off-field for house league and competitive games. Chloe demonstrated exceptional skills as a first-year referee, with her on-field attitude, positioning, and body language. Her focus and determination to improve will serve her well as she progresses over the years.

Arlind Zalli – His respect and dedication to the game of soccer and refereeing is apparent. His positive attitude is an inspiration to other referees. He is focused on developing as an official and he actively seeks feedback on areas that he can improve.

Volunteer of the Year:

Amarjeet Verma – She was the Team Manager of the L3 Under-18 boys’ team. Her dedication and commitment stretched beyond the L3 team as she was the catalyst for bringing the L3 and L5 teams together for special events. She handled countless tasks off the field and she was a major contributor in creating a welcoming environment for all families.

Recreational Coach of the Year:

Janine Buisman Wilcox and Tara Embrey – They co-coached multiple House League teams together throughout the year. They have incredible teaching skills and are constantly encouraging the girls to participate to the best of their ability. They are instrumental in creating a welcoming environment where there is team cohesiveness amongst the group.

Robert Ketis – As an organized, and dedicated House League coach, he was able to connect with everyone on the team. He encourages the kids in a positive way and works to ensure that the boys support each other. He helped each child develop and every player felt valued on his team.

Rep Coach of the Year:

Katie Parker-Lak – She fosters female mentorship to the athletes as well as a positive environment to develop their skills. She puts the players first and consistently makes their experience fun and rewarding.

Graham Hughes – He is a highly dedicated coach and coached his team to many championships, and his commitment to the process is exemplary. He is the reason many players have stayed at the club and has created a soccer family with his team.

Lifetime Achievement Award:

Kerry Piccolotto – Kerry has been an integral member of the club as he has sat on the board for six (6) years, four (4) of those as board chair. He was involved in the club during a tumultuous time and his commitment helped to make Guelph Soccer the successful club we know today. He has been an ambassador for the Club, the sport, and the community, which has been evident from his passion regarding the Guelph Sports Council. He embodies the mission and values of our Club, and his leadership will be missed by the Board and the Guelph Soccer community.

We thank our award recipients for their dedication and accomplishments in the past year and thank everyone who submitted nominations to recognize the nominees’ efforts.