Canada West programs unite in support of Soccer for Cancer

Aug. 25, 2026 – Canada West has announced it is joining forces with soccer teams from coast to coast in support of the Canadian Cancer Society's new Soccer for Cancer campaign.

Multiple Canada West soccer programs have confirmed their support of the initiative, a national fundraising program that empowers players and communities across Canada to take collective action against cancer.

The campaign has garnered support from across the Canadian soccer community, including teams from U SPORTS and the professional ranks, including the Vancouver Whitecaps and Northern Super League. Canada Men’s National Team head coach Jesse Marsch is also serving as a program ambassador.

Funds raised by the campaign support groundbreaking cancer research and vital support programs for people affected by cancer.

"We are proud to partner with the Canadian Cancer Society in support of their Soccer for Cancer campaign," says Rocky Olfert, Managing Director for Canada West. "Cancer impacts everyone. It has been great to see our teams embrace the initiative by organizing fundraising efforts and establishing designated Soccer for Cancer home games throughout the upcoming season."

Fundraising initiatives from Canada West programs are already underway, with many teams also planning designated "Soccer for Cancer" theme games, including:

“I’m incredibly proud to see Canada West joining forces with Soccer for Cancer and the Canadian Cancer Society to help amplify this national movement and support its member institutions in bringing it to life," says Christie Gray, Strategic Advisor & Founding Ambassador of Soccer for Cancer at the Canadian Cancer Society. "University sport has an incredible ability to unite athletes, campuses and communities around a shared purpose, and Canada West’s leadership will help extend the impact of Soccer for Cancer far beyond the pitch and across Western Canada.”

Fans looking to support the campaign are encouraged to visit the team fundraising pages linked below.

Canada West "Soccer for Cancer" Team Fundraising Pages

UNBC Timberwolves | WSOC + MSOC

Victoria Vikes | WSOC + MSOC

Fraser Valley Cascades | WSOC + MSOC

UBC Thunderbirds | WSOC + MSOC

Trinity Western Spartans | WSOC + MSOC

Thompson Rivers WolfPack | MSOC

Regina Cougars | WSOC

Saskatchewan Huskies | WSOC + MSOC

UBCO Heat | WSOC

About Canada West

As the leading university athletic conference in the country, Canada West is home to student-athletes that excel in the classroom and their communities. The conference is comprised of 18 member institutions spanning from Victoria to Winnipeg, with over 3,200 student-athletes competing across 14 sports. Canada West’s mission is to train leaders and build champions by providing leadership in the delivery, regulation, and promotion of university level high performance sports programs throughout western Canada.

About the Canadian Cancer Society

The Canadian Cancer Society works tirelessly to save and improve lives. We raise funds to fuel the brightest minds in cancer research. We provide a compassionate support system for all those affected by cancer, across Canada and for all types of cancer. ​ Together with patients, supporters, donors and volunteers, we work to create a healthier future for everyone. Because to take on cancer, it takes all of us. It takes a society.

Help us make a difference. Call 1-888-939-3333 or visit cancer.ca today.