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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | AUGUST 11, 2026 WESTSIDE YOUTH SOCCER APPOINTS DOMINIC OPPONG AS NEW TECHNICAL DIRECTOR WEST KELOWNA, B.C. — Westside Youth Soccer Association (WYSA) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Dominic Oppong as Technical Director. A highly respected soccer educator and former professional athlete, Oppong will oversee all technical operations, player development pathways, and coaching mentorship as the club enters an ambitious new era of regional leadership and affiliate growth with Surf Nation. Dominic will begin his role on September 3, 2026. Oppong brings an exceptional depth of experience spanning international playing ranks, major club administration, and national team scouting. Holding CONCACAF B and C coaching credentials, Oppong most recently served as Director of Player Development and Technical Director for Sting FC & Southwest United. His resume also highlights high-performance technical roles as Assistant Coach for the Vancouver Whitecaps REX MLS-aligned academy, Lead Assistant Coach at MacEwan University, and Opposition Scout for the Canada Men’s National Team during their successful 2022 World Cup Qualifying campaign. On the playing side, Dominic represented Canada Soccer Youth National Teams (U15-U17, U20, U23), gained NCAA Division I experience playing at the University of Cincinnati (Big East Champion) and the University at Buffalo (All-Conference, MVP), and professional stints with Atlanta SC, AC Oulu, Hougang United, FC Edmonton, and Harrisburg City Islanders. Dominic is also the co-founder of Next Step Soccer, which connects players to coaching, international opportunities, collegiate pathways, and professional environments across North America and Europe. In his new role, Oppong will lead on-field execution and tactical direction for all WYSA grassroots programs and competitive Okanagan Surf teams. His mandate includes implementing a full club Technical Plan, expanding the Surf Academy, delivering VEO match video analysis, and personally coaching two competitive Surf teams while mentoring community and staff coaches. "Dominic represents the exact combination of elite technical acumen, proven leadership, and inspiring passion required to elevate our club," said Matt Holbrook, WYSA Executive Director. "As we build the premier player development program in the Okanagan, Dominic’s track record in creating high-performance pathways and nurturing coaching talent will deliver transformative results for our players and families. "I am honoured to join Westside Youth Soccer and Okanagan Surf at such a pivotal moment," said Oppong. "My focus is on creating a modern, player-first environment where athletes of all ages can thrive, while giving our coaches the tools to excel on and off the field." What the soccer community is saying about Dominic: “Dominic is a highly knowledgeable coach with a strong understanding of the Canadian player pathway and what it takes to develop players for the next level. His experience as a former professional player, coach and scout gives him a valuable perspective, and he brings professionalism, leadership and a genuine commitment to player development.” Shane Lammie, Canada's U17 Men's National Team Coach "I've had the privilege of knowing and working alongside Dominic as both a teammate and coach, and his character, work ethic, and understanding of the game have always stood out. His playing experience, combined with his expertise in player development, has allowed him to consistently identify and develop talent, and the players he has recommended over the years have always been positive additions. I have no doubt his impact in a technical leadership role will be significant." David Monsalve, Toronto FC II Goalkeeper & Assistant Coach MEDIA & GENERAL INQUIRIES: Matt Holbrook, WYSA Executive Director Email: matt@wysa.ca | Website: www.wysa.ca