With the 2025 League1 Ontario season less than a month away, the men’s and women’s teams are training diligently for the season ahead. The Rovers Men have played four pre-season games to date and have matches coming up against CPL stalwarts Forge FC, and York United.
The Rovers played a friendly against CPL side Ottawa Atletico in Ottawa this past weekend which gave the team a chance to bond on the road and an opportunity to assess where it is at from a fitness and technical perspective. In a highly competitive match, the projected Rovers starting eleven played the CPL side to a draw in the first half which coach Doneil Henry was pleased about.
“Big thanks to a class organization in Atletico Ottawa for hosting us in preseason friendly as we both prepare for the first game of the season," said Henry.
"The game was a great opportunity for our players to display their ability as our players continue to work to get to this level of football! A positive step in the right direction. The vibes, energy and team comradery are extremely high at this point in our preseason. I hope to push our team’s fitness levels and tactical awareness as the bar has to be high if we want to make a real shift from last season.”
The Ottawa game marked the first appearance for new Rovers signing Reshaun Walkes. Drafted by TFC in 2022, he made 40 appearances with TFC2 scoring 12 goals in MLS Next Pro. He is a proven League1 ON commodity, a first-team all-star, golden boot winner, and League1 ON champion.
“I made the decision to join the Rovers because of the way they football," said Walkes. "They have a unique way of playing that really intrigued me and will make me better as a player.
“Training has been intense. Loads of fitness and trying to find chemistry with my new teammates. The environment is nothing short of professional and the coaching staff is doing a great job getting us prepared physically and mentally for the upcoming season.”
When asked what qualities the Rovers are getting in a player, Walkes had this to say:
“The Rovers are getting a player with goal-scoring ability willing to fight for the team and do what it takes to win for the club and the fans. Off the field, I’m a friendly guy always willing to help out teammates and coaches.
"It’s a big year for the club. We want to win the League title and the League Cup. I’m looking to improve as a player and grow as a person and am looking forward to the challenges ahead.”
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The Rovers also announced some new signings, adding depth to the squad. Midfielder Jacob Spizzirri, a U-Sport National Champion and League1 ON all-star joins the club for 2025. In addition, the club’s left side is looking strong with the additions of left-back Giovanni Farris, left-back Sebastian Cochrane, and attacking midfielder Alexander Ouveria. These players will be integral to the success of the club in 2025.
The women’s side has been busy signing players as well, as Coach Zack Wilson puts his mark on the club. Marquee signing Bryanna Caldwell is returning home to Simcoe County for the 2025 season and is excited to be back where it all started.
“I grew up in Tottenham, a small town in Simcoe County,” said Caldwell. “From U9-U11, I played competitive rep soccer with Barrie FC where I became passionate for the game. From U15 until university, I played OPDL and League 1 with Aurora FC, where I continued my soccer career, challenging myself at a higher level. My goal was to play university soccer. In 2020, I began my journey with McMaster University in Hamilton, where I became a 2-time OUA West First-Team All-Star, and 1-time OUA West Second-Team All-Star.”
“Simcoe is where it all began for me, and I’m extremely excited to be coming home to the place that first gave me the chance to chase my dream," added Caldwell.
"Being able to represent my hometown, the community, and the young soccer players within is such an incredible feeling. The talent, community engagement, and passion the Rovers have for soccer is exhilarating. I’m so excited to continue my soccer journey at home and contribute to the club’s growth and success this season. Let’s go Rovers!"
“Having Bryanna return to the Rovers is a special moment for our club and the local soccer community,” said Head Coach Zack Wilson.
“She started her journey at the Barrie Soccer Club and has now come full circle, bringing here experience and talent back home. Her return is not just a testament to her growth as a player, but also an inspiration for young athletes at Barrie Soccer Club who can see firsthand that their own pathway to high-level soccer is possible right here in their hometown.”
The Rovers also announced the signing of new striker Aaliyah Rowe, who joins from FC London. Rowe was named U Sports 2024 player of the year in women’s soccer. She topped the AUS and U Sports in goals (21) and points (23), capturing her third consecutive conference MVP award and fifth first-team all-star nod.
The Rovers have brought in additional firepower with the following signings.
- Jennifer Milligan – Striker. Milligan has been a standout on the OUA circuit ever since her debut, earning conference all-star honours in each of her 3 seasons.
- Teagan Handley – Midfielder. Bishop University.
- Kaylin Robertson – Striker. Windsor Lancers. Team MVP 2023.
The Rovers are excited to have season ticket holders, fans, and sponsors at Canadian Brewhouse on April 5th at 2.00 p.m. for the 2025 kickoff party. Players and coaches will be in attendance to sign autographs, there will be prize giveaways, free food and the latest Rovers Merch will be available for purchase.
For more information on the Simcoe County Rovers FC, including schedule details, ticket purchase options and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.roversfc.ca.
