Saanich’s Lakehill U17 Girls soccer team is proving that heart and belief can take you a long way.
Despite injuries and a reduced roster, the small community club fought hard to secure a second-place finish at the BC Provincial Championships.
Now, they are headed to the 2025 Canada Soccer National Championships in Kamloops.
Head coach Rohan Indulkar says the achievement is a reflection of everything the players and the club stand for.
“For the players, it’s a reward for their hard work, dedication, and belief in themselves,” Indulkar said. “For the club, it demonstrates the strength of our player development philosophy and the culture we’ve built.”
One defining moment happened just before provincials when their goalkeeper got injured.
With only 15 players available, Lakehill was the only team in five age groups to compete in the tournament without a goalie.
“They trusted the process,” Indulkar said. “That belief carried us through.”
For Elyse Hanke, who has been with Lakehill since she was seven years old, the experience was unforgettable.
“It felt pretty amazing! Even though we were missing several players at provincials, we still came together as a team and earned our spot at Nationals,” she said. “Not every game will end the way you want, but growth comes from showing up anyway.”
Teammate Grace Manga described the moment “surreal.”
“I never thought we would make it — that made it even more special. It didn’t feel real, it felt like I was dreaming,” Manga said.
She acknowledges that team morale has occasionally been low. Players are concerned about how strong the competition will be in Kamloops.
“But seeing my teammates work hard has inspired me to push through. I’m just excited to play and meet people from all across the country.”
With Nationals set for October 6th to 11th, Indulkar says preparation goes beyond tactics.
“We’re working on ball possession and decision-making, but just as important is staying confident, composed, and connected,” he explained. “We’re focused on handling nerves, supporting each other, and keeping a positive mindset.”
Both players and coach share the same advice for younger athletes which is to never give up, keep learning, and trust the process.
For a team that’s already proven what belief and resilience can achieve, Kamloops will be the next step in a journey that’s inspiring young athletes across Vancouver Island.
The National Championship game will take place on October 13th.
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