Surrey United Proud: 2008 Metro Girls

Four years ago, the future of Surrey United’s 2008 Metro girls was anything but certain. At the end of the 2022 season, the team was without a coach and facing the possibility of folding. Stef Leslie, then Surrey United’s Metro Technical Lead, stepped in.

The first two seasons weren’t defined by wins. The focus was on development, building a team identity, and trusting the process. Progress came slowly, and by the end of 2024, the team was once again at a crossroads. A second group coached by Kevan Cornes was facing a similar situation. Players from the two teams came together, giving them the opportunity to continue their youth soccer journey.

That decision changed everything.

In 2024/25, the newly formed team finished second in the BC Coastal Soccer League, became Coastal Cup Champions and earned bronze at the Provincial Championships.

The 2025/26 season was about unfinished business.

Despite the pressures of graduation, academics, injuries and other commitments, the team earned its way back to the Provincial Championships for a second consecutive year. Along the way, captain Kate Devine said the group leaned on one phrase:

Pressure is a Privilege.

Instead of being intimidated by the biggest moments, the players reminded themselves that pressure meant they had earned the opportunity to be there.

After bringing home bronze the year before, the goal was simple: change the colour of the medal.

At Provincials, the girls battled their way into the Final, and this time, finished the job!

The Surrey United 2008 Metro girls were Provincial Champions.

From a team that once faced the possibility of folding to one that finished its youth soccer journey at the top of the province, their story is about much more than a championship. It’s about development, resilience, trust, and what can happen when a group is given the opportunity to grow together.

As Head Coach Stef Leslie reflected:

“I’m very thankful that they trusted me to lead them, and I’m so proud that I had the opportunity to coach this group.”

Congratulations to the players, coaches and families of the 2008 Metro girls. The entire club is so proud of your accomplishment!