Coming off the best season in Saints history, the St. George’s senior soccer team were riding a wave of euphoria, with the Provincial Championship title under their belt. Rather than simply being satisfied with what they had already accomplished in 2025, the Saints returned with one goal in mind: build on last year’s success and prove that was only the start.
Last year’s squad was already a special group, with a strong Grade 11 class leading the way. As Finn Borrit put it, it was “only up from here.” With much of that championship-winning team returning for one more year, the Saints entered this season with an even deeper and more experienced roster. At the same time, the current Grade 10s and Grade 11s have stepped up in a big way, adding another level of talent and competition to the squad.
That combination of returning experience and younger players stepping into bigger roles has helped make this year’s team particularly strong. Seeing so much young talent on the starting lineup already makes me think how far this school can go with soccer. The Saints have continued to build on the foundation they established last season, with team chemistry becoming one of their biggest strengths.
Their hard work has already paid off. Just two weeks ago, St. George’s travelled to compete in the Canadian Private School National Championship, where they went on to claim the national title. Returning home, the team also managed to defeat Vancouver College on their home field, adding another memorable result to an already impressive season.
Interestingly, Borrit explained that, in his opinion, the BC Provincial Championships are actually a tougher competition than Nationals. While winning a national championship is an incredible accomplishment, the level of competition across BC is extremely high, with provincial programs often presenting a greater challenge than some of the private school teams they face nationally.
Despite the success, the players aren’t getting ahead of themselves. Borrit emphasized how important the experience has been for the group and how much the team has grown together throughout the season. The chemistry between players has been a major factor in their success, and having another year together has allowed the team to develop an even stronger understanding of one another on and off the field.
Leadership has also played a major role. With Abdullah and Finn helping guide the group, the Saints have developed a team that understands the importance of putting the collective ahead of individual success. However, as Abdullah explained, the success from last season has brought a little more confidence and, at times, ego into the group. This has occasionally made it harder for the team to stay focused on what matters. As Abdullah put it, a big part of leadership this year has been “keeping all the boys accountable, and staying on track for success.” Coaches Tweedle, Dr. Mercer and Coach Figs have reinforced this mentality, challenging the players to put their egos aside and approach the season from square one. Despite last year’s championship and this year’s national title, the message has remained the same: previous success means very little if you aren’t willing to work for the next one.
When Fran and I first approached the team, neither of us knew a great deal about soccer. However, after speaking with the players and hearing about their approach to the season, it became clear just how much belief this group has in one another. Their confidence isn’t simply built on winning games. It comes from the work they have put in together, the leadership within the squad and the determination to keep improving.
Now, with a national championship already under their belts, the Saints are turning their attention back to BC. The goal is simple: bring home another provincial title and finish what they started last year. With an experienced core, younger players stepping up and a team that continues to grow closer, St. George’s has put itself in an exciting position.
Last year, they proved they could win provincials. This year, they have proven they can win nationally. But if there’s one thing this group has made clear, it’s that they aren’t finished yet. For the Saints, the best may still be ahead.
Borrit, Finn. Personal interview. St. George’s School Senior Soccer Team, 2026.
Abdullah. Personal interview. St. George’s School Senior Soccer Team, 2026.
Harvey, Nick. Photographs of the St. George’s School Senior Soccer Team, 2026.
