New soccer club looks to keep Pace with top level teams

November 2, 2016 · 0 Comments

By Jake Courtepatte

A new entry into elite level soccer training programs in Aurora has found significant success in just its first year of play.
With a slogan of “providing options, creating opportunities,” Pace FC has certainly done so in its inaugural under-16 boys season with a runner-up finish in the Canadian Academy of Futbol (CAF) SuperGroup.
Described as “providing the technical training of an academy while playing at an elite level in Ontario-sanctioned leagues,” the not-for-profit organization was founded just over one year ago by Chris Speller and Rod Dobson.
“It has taken a lot of work to just get this far,” said Speller. “Rod has been working very hard in the background with paperwork, locations, permits, etc. it really is a thankless job but it’s very important and he does a great job.
“The boys worked hard during the winter, the team did quite well in pre-season as runners-up in the coveted AISL 11 vs 11 indoor league, while getting well noted at the Umbro International and Guelph Showcases. The start of the summer season didn’t go so well with three straight losses in the CAF SuperGroup, it’s a strong league, but even at that early stage the team was adapting to the speed of play and the quality of the teams playing in CAF.”
They soon adapted with ease, putting together a successful remainder of the season, including wins in four of their last five CAF games. A final record of 6-4-4 was good for second place in the eight-team league, behind only Mississauga United.
“A great result for a team in its first year and with the addition of a few more quality players there’s no saying how good the team could become.”
With a minimum of four training sessions per week involving speed training, strength conditioning, and individual, team, and tactical play, Pace FC’s schedule is complemented by league games, tournaments, and showcases throughout the season.
“It’s a great league,” said Speller. “Before each game, the players get announced to the fans, the national anthem is played, and CAF TV in conjunction with Rogers films the games. They broadcast a weekly review show with game highlights. Games are played at stadium venues giving everything a very professional and structured feel.”
Pace FC is looking to add additional teams for the 2016-17 indoor and outdoor seasons. For more information about the program, visit www.pacefc.ca, or email info@pacefc.ca.