Q & A With 4 Local Youth On The Impact A Pro Soccer Team Would Have On Peterborough
/The prospect of a professional soccer team possibly coming to Peterborough is exciting for many but the idea has four local youth completely inspired at the notion.
For Owen Hazeldine, Belle Onusko, Jordan Foss-Mills and Nathan Francisco, their passion for the game runs deep. Beth McClelland, a soccer match official, player and fan, originally from Peterborough, recently caught up with all four as they shared what sparked their love for the game and why they hope to see a pro team come to the city. Read her interview with them below…
Jordan Foss-Mills, a member of Peterborough City's U-16 girls soccer team, competing against an opposing team at Eastgate Park in Peterborough (Photo courtesy Beth McClelland)
BETH: Please tell us about yourself and explain the connection to soccer in Peterborough.
Owen: Soccer has been a part of my life for a long time. I started playing soccer when I was two years old and have continued to play up to now when I am 15. I’ve kept playing soccer throughout the years because I enjoy it and have made many new friends along the way.
Belle: I started playing soccer when I was five years old in the Peterborough house league, then began with Peterborough City Soccer when I was eight. Throughout all the years I've played, it has always given me stability, allowing me to escape other stresses or worries in my life. My dad has been my coach almost every year until now, and he has really shown me how to be a caring player—both on and off the field. I've made meaningful friendships with many teammates, who inspire me to keep improving my skills, in both soccer and collaboration.
Jordan: Since a young age, I have been involved in many athletic clubs/programs across Peterborough. I found my passion for soccer at age eight, and joined Peterborough City Soccer at 10 years old. I have been playing ever since. Soccer has played a huge part in my life in many aspects, as a person and as a player
Nathan: I’m 16 years old and I’ve played soccer for 7 years. Being a soccer player runs in my family. I’ve always played for Peterborough City and I’ve played house league on my off seasons. I have been refereeing for three years, and I really enjoy that too.
Belle Onusko playing for the Peterborough City U-17 girls soccer team at the Champions Showcase tournament in Ottawa (Photo courtesy Beth McClelland)
BETH: What does the Peterborough soccer community mean to you?
Owen: The Peterborough soccer community means a lot to me. It has been a part of my life for a long time. It has brought enjoyment into my life and is a very positive community. Everyone that has helped me has taught me valuable lessons and formed me into the person I am today. Without the soccer community, I don't know where I would be today.
Belle: To me, the Peterborough soccer community embodies a passion for soccer, and the development of quality teammates. From both coaches and other players, I've learned that a truly great soccer player means being a kind and fair person. I have learned how to commit to a team goal, and prioritize collective success. I will take this with me when moving on past high school onto other teams and in future workplaces.
Jordan: The Peterborough City soccer community has always been my second family. I think I have spent more time training and competing with my team than with my actual family. The club is there providing a place to leave the outside world behind to compete and play the sport we all love.
Nathan: The Peterborough soccer community means a lot to me. I’ve been a part of it for a very long time and I would like the best experience possible for people who are just getting into soccer!
Owen Hazeldine (bottom left) with the Peterborough CIty U-15 boys team at a tournament in Thornhill (Photo courtesy Beth McClelland)
