INTRO
In a thrilling recap of the 2023 Canada Soccer Toyota Nationals, our FTF Canada All-Star Team selections shine as beacons of excellence on the pitch. The article delves into the standout performances that defined this prestigious event, showcasing the skill, determination, and teamwork that earned our selected players their well-deserved spots among the nation’s soccer elite.
U17 Nationals Starting 11
BC | GK | Burnaby FC | Lily Bouvier – Lily is a remarkable goalkeeper known for her exceptional shot-stopping ability. Her agility and reflexes make her a formidable presence in front of the goal. Beyond her goalkeeping skills, Lily also possesses good distribution, which allows her to initiate quick counterattacks. As a leader on the pitch, her vocal presence and strong decision-making qualities make her an invaluable asset in guiding her team to success.
NS | CB | St.Johns SC | Sarah Baker
Sarah Baker, playing as a center-back (CB), stands out for her strength and athleticism on the field. Her commanding presence and physical abilities make her a formidable defender, contributing to a rock-solid backline. Additionally, she’s known for her tidy and composed style of play, which further solidifies her reputation as a reliable center-back in the team.
QC | CB/CDM | CS St. Hubert | Madison Boubot
Madison Boubot is a highly skilled soccer player, known for her exceptional technical prowess on the ball. Her intelligence on the field is evident through her great range of passing, which consistently unlocks opportunities for her team. Madison’s ability to keep the ball ticking, combined with her strong positional awareness, makes her an invaluable asset in any match, as she orchestrates play and maintains a solid defensive presence.
BC | RB | Burnaby FC | Cassia Crozier
Cassia Crozier is a dynamic full-back for Burnaby FC known for her versatility and tactical acumen. Her ability to surge up and down the pitch makes her a formidable force in both defensive and attacking phases of the game. What sets her apart is her proficiency in playing as an inverted full-back, offering a different dimension to the team’s strategy. Cassia’s technical finesse coupled with her intelligence on the field makes her a key player, contributing significantly to the team’s fluidity and adaptability.
AB | CM | Calgary West | Brooke Batty – Brooke Batty who operates as a central midfielder (CM), demonstrated exceptional decision-making skills throughout the game. Their ability to make precise choices, particularly with well-timed runs, led to them scoring the second goal. Their tactical awareness and ability to exploit opportunities on the field make them a valuable asset to their team.
BC | CDM | Burnaby FC | Malala Rabesoa – Malalatiana who holds the position of a defensive midfielder (CDM), is a force to be reckoned with in the tackle. Her strength and tenacity in challenges are reminiscent of the renowned Desiree Scott. She plays a crucial role in breaking up opposition attacks and shielding her team’s defense. With her defensive prowess and relentless work ethic, Malalatiana is a vital presence in the heart of the midfield.
BC | CAM | Burnaby FC | Sierra Bergen – Sierra Bergen, a former player of the Vancouver Whitecaps REX program, currently committed to Mississippi State University, brought her exceptional technical ability, intelligence, and creativity in the attacking third. She serves as the talisman on her team, consistently orchestrating plays and creating numerous goal-scoring opportunities through her expansive range of passing. Sierra’s flair makes her highly dynamic with threatening poise in front of goal.
AB | CAM | Calgary West | Danielle Lehmann – Danielle exhibits a remarkable level of precision in their ball placements, consistently delivering perfectly executed shots on goal and pinpoint passes to teammates. Their ability to place the ball exactly where it needs to be is a testament to their exceptional control and finesse on the field. Their precision not only makes them a valuable asset to their team but also a standout performer in any match.
BC | WNG | Burnaby FC | Katie Connell –
Katie Connell, the dynamic winger for Burnaby FC, has committed to Bucknell University, and her on-field attributes make her a formidable force. She excels in taking on defenders in one-on-one situations, using her lightning-fast pace to outmaneuver opponents. Katie’s ability to deliver pinpoint crosses, exceptional shot power, and a clinical finishing touch make her a valuable asset in attack, ensuring she is a player to watch in the collegiate soccer scene.
AB | RW | Calgary West | Avery Shafer – This player possesses an exceptional and versatile skill set that seamlessly blends remarkable offensive and defensive qualities. Their uncanny ability to win 50/50 balls is a testament to their physical prowess, and they consistently excel in these challenging duels. Whether contributing offensively or defending with determination, they are a formidable presence on the field, making them a crucial asset to their team’s success.
QC | ST | CS St. Hubert | Skye Cuscuna
Skye Cuscuna emerged as the standout player at the Toyota Nationals U17 Tournament, netting an impressive 8 goals, the highest tally among all participants. Her versatility shines through as she exhibits excellence with both feet, a rare and valuable trait in a striker. Skye’s ability to hold the ball up effectively, coupled with her smart movement in and around the box and a keen sense of vision, makes her a potent force in the attacking third, leaving defenders and goalkeepers with little room to breathe.
