After almost 100 years of operation, Langley United are expanding their programs to provide playing opportunities in Pro-Am soccer
Vancouver, BC – (July 24, 2024) – Langley United Soccer Association (LUSA) is thrilled to announce the awarding of the LG1 franchise to our community-based soccer association. This monumental achievement, years in the making, reflects the tireless hours and unwavering commitment from our leadership teams both on and off the pitch.
Mark Parker, Technical Director of Langley United, said: “I am incredibly proud of our club’s relentless dedication to growth and excellence. Securing a spot in League1 BC is a testament to the hard work, commitment, and passion of our players, coaches, and the entire Langley United community.
“This advancement represents a new chapter in our club’s journey, offering our players the opportunity to compete at a higher level and gain invaluable experience, and exposure to the NSL [Northern Super League] for female players and the CPL [Canadian Premier League] for male players.
“Participation in League1 BC has been a strategic objective for Langley United. Our entry into the semi-professional level underscores our commitment to nurturing local talent and contributing to the growth of soccer in British Columbia.”
Stuart Neely, General Manager at League1 BC, said: “Langley United have been a significant part of the British Columbia soccer scene for nearly 100 years, and we are excited to be a part of the next stage of their journey.
“The club’s long-standing ‘soccer for life’ mission, which underpins their aspirations, complements League1 BC’s goals to elevate the game in Canada and enhance development opportunities for future homegrown stars.
“Willoughby Community Park has already staged important League1 Canada matches, and we can now look forward to seeing Pro-Am level games more regularly in Langley in 2025.”
As we approach our 100-year centennial in 2026, this accomplishment roots Langley as a true soccer town, offering lifelong opportunities for generations of players to come.
Vision and Commitment
At LUSA, our long-term vision is to develop one of the most robust player pathways within our province, providing every individual in our community with opportunities to excel in soccer at every level, from grassroots to semi-professional. We envision a future where every player, regardless of age, gender, or skill level, has access to a comprehensive and inclusive player pathway within their own community. Our goal is to create a seamless progression from recreational soccer to semi-professional leagues, affording players the opportunity to pursue their dreams and aspirations in the sport.
Soccer for Life
Embedded in the heart of our ethos is the belief in “soccer for life.” This motto reflects our commitment to providing lifelong opportunities for involvement in the beautiful game. Whether players aspire to compete at the highest levels, pursue collegiate scholarships, or simply enjoy recreational play, LUSA aims to be their partner every step of the way, supporting their development and fostering their passion for soccer throughout their lives.
Comprehensive Offerings and Community Integration
As we pursue our vision, we are dedicated to offering a diverse range of programs and pathways to accommodate the varied interests and goals of our players. From elite competitive teams to recreational leagues and everything in between, LUSA strives to provide outlets for every player to thrive and grow, both on and off the field.
Central to our vision is the integration of soccer into the fabric of our community. We envision our club as a hub of activity, where families gather, friendships are forged, and lifelong memories are made. Through partnerships with local schools, businesses, and organizations, we seek to enhance the social, cultural, and economic well-being of our community through the power of soccer.
Centennial Celebration and Franchise Expansion
Approaching our centennial celebration in 2026, Langley United Soccer Association proudly looks back on a century of delivering the beautiful game to our sprawling community. As we commemorate 100 years of soccer excellence in Langley, we reaffirm our commitment to building upon our rich history and embracing the future with optimism and ambition.
As part of our commitment to realizing our vision, LUSA is actively pursuing the establishment of a franchise in a men’s and women’s semi-professional league. By providing a direct pathway from grassroots to semi-professional play, we aim to elevate the visibility of our players, increase opportunities for post-secondary placement, and strengthen the overall soccer infrastructure within our region.
In Summary
Langley United Soccer Association aspires to be a beacon of excellence and inclusivity in soccer, offering a comprehensive player pathway that empowers individuals to pursue their soccer dreams and passions for life. The awarding of the LG1 franchise marks a significant milestone in our journey, and we look forward to the bright future that lies ahead for our community and our players.
For more information, please contact:
Marcel Horn
Executive Director
Langley United Soccer Association (LUSA)
[email protected]
~~~
About League1 BC
League1 BC is an adult open age Pro-Am Soccer League operated by Canadian Soccer Business. Established in 2021, the league is intended to bridge the gap between youth and professional soccer, targeting the ‘Training to Compete’ stage within Long-term Player Development. The league will engage communities across British Columbia, providing standard-based competition and training environments for female and male players, coaches, and match officials. League1 BC serves as a key platform of development into further opportunities within the game.
For more information about League1 BC, please contact:
Matt Bates
Content & Communications Director | Final Third Sports Media
[email protected]
