KidsPlay Foundation hosted a free World Cup-style soccer event in Surrey, uniting young players through teamwork, sportsmanship, and community spirit.
Surrey’s Mini World Cup Brings Big Smiles
The sound of laughter, cheering parents, and echoing soccer balls filled an indoor field in South Surrey on November 10. The occasion? KidsPlay Foundation’s annual World Cup Soccer Tournament, a beloved community event that turned young dreamers into champions for a day.
Normally held at BC Stadium, this year’s tournament found a new home at a cozy indoor facility on 152 Street but the energy was as high as ever. Over 100 children, ages five to 14, came together not just to compete, but to connect.
More Than a Game: A Mission Rooted in Compassion
KidsPlay Foundation isn’t just about sports it’s about shaping lives. The non-profit, founded by Kal Dosanjh, aims to instill compassion, respect, and belonging in youth. Through mentorship and free community programs, KidsPlay creates safe spaces where kids feel seen, supported, and inspired.
Dosanjh, also a Vancouver Police Department officer, believes in prevention through positivity.
“We can keep kids away from drugs, gangs, and crime by connecting them to things like sports,” he told the crowd of parents, players, and volunteers.
Since 2015, KidsPlay has engaged over 100,000 youth all at no cost and helped build a strong network of volunteers, with more than 40 now serving as first responders and law enforcement officers.
Star Guests Share Lessons Beyond the Field
To kick off the event, Dosanjh welcomed three special guests who know a thing or two about the power of the game: Carl Valentine, a Vancouver Whitecaps legend; Randy Samuels from Freedomball Soccer; and Dehara September of She Plays Soccer.
Valentine spoke passionately about how sports teach vital life skills.
“You learn teamwork, how to win, and how to accept defeat,” he said. “Play hard, but play the right way with good sportsmanship and support for one another.”
Samuels and September echoed the sentiment, reminding the kids that every pass, goal, and challenge on the pitch mirrors real life.
“You’re learning discipline, teamwork, and how to be a better person,” Samuels encouraged.
Community, Connection, and Celebration
As the last words of encouragement echoed, the young players eagerly sprinted onto the turf their excitement uncontainable. The friendly matches showcased incredible teamwork, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship.
Dosanjh closed the event by thanking the volunteers, sponsors, and community partners who made it possible.
“If it wasn’t for our volunteers and supporters, we wouldn’t be here today,” he said with gratitude.
The celebration wrapped up with a thrilling prize ceremony $500 for each division’s top team, and another $500 prize draw for parents, coaches, and staff.
Building a Brighter Future, One Kick at a Time
From first-time players to seasoned young athletes, every child left the field a little prouder and more confident. KidsPlay’s World Cup may be over, but the lessons of teamwork, empathy, and resilience will keep echoing long after the final whistle.
Because at KidsPlay, every goal scored is a step toward a stronger, kinder community.
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