There’s nothing like winning, and even if it’s a bronze medal, it’s far better than coming back empty handed.
Canada’s women’s Olympic soccer team did us proud in London, recovering from a tough loss against the U.S., in a game they should have won, to win the bronze against France, in a game they should have lost.
A day after arriving from Great Britain (or England, or the U.K. or whatever it calls itself this week) Maple Ridge’s Karina LeBlanc brought the bronze to a local luncheon, then took it to a Whitecaps game Wednesday, followed by an autograph session Friday.
With no time for jet lag, LeBlanc is eager to share the win of Olympian proportions and inspire another generation of soccer players.
So it’s a no-brainer that the new field at Merkley Park be named in her honour. It’s the least a community can do for someone who’s given so much.
LeBlanc’s sharing approach is evident in her reaction to the proposal.
“As far as I am concerned, this medal is part of the community. I’m so grateful for all the support over the years.”
Those are the comments of a champion.
Meanwhile, as the post-Olympic glow starts to fade, the questions about Canadian soccer resurface. Why is there not more corporate support of women’s soccer? It’s time companies stepped up, put some money up, helped these heroes, and also helped themselves.
Which leads to the big elephant in the room.
Why is Canadian men’s international soccer so constantly inept? It’s time we had answers.
– The News
