On a pristine indoor field, Edmonton coach Ahmad Majed observes Amelia Barata as she delivers a powerful kick, sending the ball into the goal. Barata, aged 11, has been under the guidance of the founder of Soccer Elite Academy for half of her life, but this marks their inaugural practice session on Elite’s new turf.
Expressing her delight, Barata shared with CBC News, “It’s wonderful – even in snowy weather, I can come here, train, enhance my skills, and do so without feeling the cold.” She praised Majed for providing children like her with the chance to step onto the field, join the academy, and strive to excel in soccer.
In October, Elite commemorated the opening of their new headquarters — the Athletes Hangar — located just opposite the NAIT campus where Majed once competed. The spacious two-level structure, previously a curling rink, now accommodates training facilities, recovery rooms, physiotherapy spaces, and a café.
Eleven-year-old Lizoux Gerriel Ouanda noted significant improvements in his fitness, dribbling, and shooting abilities since joining Elite at its inception six years ago, alongside his elder brother who now serves as a coach. Ouanda expressed gratitude for the guidance and support received, emphasizing the welcoming and friendly atmosphere within the academy.
Reflecting on his past, Majed recounted how he played for Lebanon’s national team at the age of 14 before conflict forced his family to relocate to Fort McMurray. He emphasized his deep-rooted connection to soccer, lamenting the absence of the sport during his early days in a new country.
The impact of a historic match between Canada and Brazil at Edmonton’s Commonwealth Stadium in the 1990s, where a record crowd witnessed the game, was highlighted by JR Figueiredo, Alberta Soccer president. Figueiredo noted the subsequent growth of soccer in Alberta, with the player count surging from less than 10,000 to over 100,000 since that event.
Anticipating FIFA’s return to North America, Figueiredo envisioned further expansion in the sport and emphasized the need for a long-term strategy to engage Alberta’s diverse youth population while ensuring soccer remains accessible and affordable.
Majed underscored Elite’s commitment to inclusivity, regardless of economic backgrounds, with the academy’s membership soaring from 18 to over 1,000 individuals in just six years. Elite has nurtured top-tier talent, with players progressing to professional clubs such as FC Montreal, Vancouver Rise, Whitecaps, York FC, and even Europe. Notably, a female player from Elite has attracted interest from Real Madrid’s scouting team, currently shuttling to Club Deportivo Leganés for training.
In a reflection of his journey, Majed expressed satisfaction in providing opportunities to children that he lacked in his youth, emphasizing the importance of offering them a supportive environment and a platform to thrive.
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