The Simcoe County Rovers Women are on the cusp of something special. They face FC London tonight at J.C. Massie Field in Barrie for a place in the League1 Cup final, a new addition to the 2024 season.
This isn't just any game ... it's the biggest match in club history for the Women’s Program."
The Rovers Women haven't reached this stage by accident. They've dominated the competition so far, outscoring St. Catharines Roma 5-0 and Scrosoppi FC 3-0 in their last two games.
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Tonight's clash against FC London will be a familiar test. The Rovers bested them 2-1 in the regular season, setting the stage for a thrilling rematch.
This match is more than just a trophy chase. It's the culmination of dedication to player development within our community over the past four seasons.
Club President Peter Raco emphasizes this commitment, highlighting their work alongside local clubs to create a strong pathway for young female footballers.
He shares, “We made a commitment when we launched Rovers Football Club in 2021 to develop pathways for young players in Barrie and Simcoe County. Our group has worked tirelessly over the last 4 years, alongside Barrie Soccer Club, HDSA, and other youth community clubs, to create a proper development environment for our region. It's outstanding to see local female footballers have the opportunity to play for a trophy at home in Barrie."
The success extends beyond trophies. COO and Women's Sporting Director Will Devellis points to their track record of helping players secure professional contracts.
Will Devellis, COO and Women's Sporting Director, explains, "Our goal has always been to develop talented players, help them move on to professional environments and also to win trophies for our fan base and community. We have had huge success helping players move on to pro contracts, and now we look at this match as an opportunity to secure the trophy we have been working towards."
The success extends beyond trophies. COO and Women's Sporting Director Will Devellis points to their track record of helping players secure professional contracts. "I can truly say we are making huge strides in the direction of player development. We have seen female players who have developed through the Barrie SC youth program solidify permanent roster spots with the Rovers Women Premier Team ..."
But tonight, the focus is clear: securing a spot in the League1 Cup final.
The players themselves share the excitement. Midfielder Annika Gross, who came from British Columbia, sees this moment as a reflection of the team's hard work. Defender Holly Tarves echoes this sentiment, highlighting the opportunity to compete against top players and the chance to reach the final.
But for local hero Michelle Plowman, this match holds a deeper meaning. Growing up playing with Barrie SC, she'll be representing the community that nurtured her love for the game. "... playing for the Rovers in a community that helped me develop within the game of soccer is special to me. The girls have been playing some fantastic football, and we are looking for to the opportunity to win a spot in the Cup Final."
The stage is set for a historic night in Barrie.
Join the Rovers Women at J.C. Massie Field at 8:00 PM as they chase League1 Cup glory.
