Maple Ridge soccer talent T.J. Tahid leaves Vancouver FC for Albania’s Skenderbeu, marking a major step in his pro career.
Rising Star Makes European Move
Maple Ridge’s T.J. Tahid, one of Canada’s brightest young soccer prospects, has officially signed with Albanian club Skenderbeu. The 18-year-old midfielder departs Vancouver FC after three standout seasons, becoming the latest Canadian Premier League (CPL) player to make the jump overseas.
A Milestone in a Young Career
Tahid made history as the youngest player to sign and appear in a CPL match, later becoming the league’s youngest goal scorer. His tenure with Vancouver FC included helping the club reach its first Canadian Championship semifinal earlier this summer. Despite his move abroad, he emphasized his pride in representing his hometown and the Lower Mainland.
Timing of the Transfer
The transfer was finalized in late August, coinciding with Tahid’s call-up to the Canada U-18 national team for friendlies against Finland and Switzerland. “Everything moved very quickly,” Tahid explained, recalling how he learned about both milestones within days of each other.
Why Skenderbeu Came Calling
Skenderbeu, based in the southeastern Albanian city of Korçë, is an eight-time domestic league champion with a history of competing in both the UEFA Champions League and Europa League. The club is rebuilding in Albania’s second division and identified Tahid as a strong fit for its attacking style. Meetings with team officials reassured the Canadian that he would have a clear role in the squad.
How the Move Reflects Vancouver FC’s Mission
For Vancouver FC, Tahid’s transfer highlights the club’s vision of developing young Canadian talent for the global stage. Previous teammates Grady McDonnell and James Cameron made similar moves abroad last season, demonstrating that the CPL can provide a genuine professional pathway.
Looking Ahead With Optimism
While acknowledging the challenges of leaving home at such a young age, Tahid views the move as an exciting opportunity. “It’s a big step, but this is the career I wanted,” he said, adding his determination to represent his family, Maple Ridge, and Canada with pride. He also thanked Vancouver FC fans for their support and promised to return to Willoughby Stadium to cheer on his former teammates.
This article is original and written specifically for Surreyspeak.com
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