LATEST NEWS

THE FALL SEASON IS UPON US! A few updates as we begin play for the fall 2026 season: * The recreational teams from the April-June season are still together and have a schedule for September. We have lost some players, and have many more that signed up for fall, and those new players have been added to teams. * 360player is our communications tool, and all teams have a page in that system where parents/players can see schedules, teammates, coaches, and communicate internally. You access 360 by using the email that you registered with, and I suggest downloading the app to your phone. * Our 2014-2011 Surf teams all have games built in the new Fall Soccer Series. Games have been scheduled, but some clubs are just now getting to scheduling the game times/locations, so please have patience as all the games get updated with information and also get added to 360player. * Dominic is on board as our new TD, and manages all on-field programming and is your point for anything relating to the teams on-field; Dominic can be reached by email (td@wysa.ca). Matt handles off field club admin such as scheduling and registrations. * We move indoor on November 1, and those schedules will be posted on 360player by the end of September. * We have had a slight delay in the planning around the MLS Go indoor rec league, so it will probably be another 2-3 weeks until we can post all that information and open registration---that program will begin Nov 1 in the dome. * The teams that have later start times scheduled for Sept-Oct will have to adjust earlier within a few weeks due to fading daylight hours; Dominic will work with the team coaches on that plan. * For new players to WYSA's grassroots/rec program for September, we have uniforms in the office and pickup days are: Sept 8 + 10 from 6:30pm-7:30pm, and Sept 12 from 9am-10am. The office is located at 1385 Stevens Road (Unit 1B).

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