Linda Southern-Heathcott

 President and CEO, Spruce Meadows Ltd.

Cavalry FC

“The inception of one of Calgary’s newest pro sports franchise occurred when Linda was approached during a course walk by Tommy Wheeldon Jr. about whether she had ever considered soccer being played on the hallowed Spruce Meadows International Ring, and so began the story of Cavalry FC. Serendipitously, it was Linda Southern Heathcott, a former Olympian and current president and CEO of Spruce Meadows, whose interest was piqued. It was Linda’s love of horses and talent for riding that inspired her parents to create the vision that is now a globally recognized Show Jumping enterprise. The Southern family is excited about leading the charge for this new soccer venture, while maintaining its multi-generational dedication to excellence.”

Alise Wilson

Executive Assistant & Office Manager

Canadian Premier League

“I joined the CPL after more than 20 years working in sport television broadcast. Staying in the sports space was important to me as I looked to make a change, and becoming the executive assistant and office manager at the League office was a natural fit. My role is never dull. I get to work with everyone, supporting all departments as well as the executive team. It is a thrill to work in the fastest growing sports in Canada, to see the League expanding across the country, to watch our two amazing National Teams and to feel the excitement that already exists for 2026 World Cup. Who wouldn’t want to work here?

My recipe for success has always been being a team player, bringing a sense of humour and positive attitude to work every day and using my voice and experience to enhance and execute whatever projects I’m working on. We should all strive to be mentors, particularly women in the sports space, and I am proud of the small role I’ve played in many colleagues achieving their professional goals. Leaders rise by lifting others; Women are leaders and deserve seats at all tables.”

Alison O’Keefe Wiebe

Head of Ticket Sales & Sponsorships

Cavalry FC

“Alison plays a critical role toward the Ticket Sales, Sponsorship, and Marketing success of Cavalry FC. She is a true leader and provides day-to-day guidance to all front office staff, all while keeping the fan experience top of mind.

Graduating in 2006 with her degree in Marketing Communications from the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), and with diplomas in Event Marketing and Public Relations, Alison has worked in the live event industry for almost two decades. She started her career in sport with the Candian Football League’s BC Lions in 2004. Since then, she has worked for Ticketmaster in supporting numerous sports teams, and went on to run ticket operations for both the Calgary Stampede and Alberta Ballet. Alison now brings her immense ticketing experience and knowledge to Cavalry FC as an active member of the International Ticketing Association. In her spare time, Alison enjoys yoga, traveling, and spending time with her husband and their two-year-old son Jameson.”

Amanda Heeren

Coordinator, Community Partnerships

Forge FC

Ashley Jimenez

Director, Matchday

Cavalry FC

“As the Matchday and Media Director, Ashley Jimenez oversees the entire run of show when it comes to home games on ATCO Field at Spruce Meadows. She creates a minute-by-minute document for staff and contractors to keep the start of the match to time and is the main point of contact for all matchday activations. As a leader, Ashley provides guidance and shares her vast experience of working within the sport industry with those around her. Ashley has spent over 12 years working within sports, with an immense passion for show jumping and riding, which she has taken part in since she was young.

Ashley attended Trent University with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) and completed several research projects in the Bahamas and Taiwan. Along with her love of animals, Ashley also has a passion for photography. In 2015, Ashley was named the overall winner of HRH Prince of Wales’s Commonwealth Environmental Photography Awards, where she was presented the award by His Majesty King Charles in Malta. She now takes her talent for photography to work, where she captures photos during the players training sessions in her spare time. Outside of work, Ashley enjoys spending time with her husband, their two-year-old son, and their miniature horse, Mike. As a family, they all share a love for horses and spend much of their time riding outdoors or visiting family in Mexico.”

Becca Gould

Graphic Designer

Cavalry FC

“Cavalry FC’s newest addition, Becca Gould is the club’s Graphic Designer with a passion for sport. Behind the club’s artwork, Becca creates several of the club’s visual assets for their social media platforms, as well as assists with major projects that require a visual aspect. She obtained a Diploma in New Media Production & Design from SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) in 2015 and enjoys creating digital artwork and capturing photos.

Growing up, Becca was always involved in sport. For 10 years she played soccer as a goalkeeper, until she began to pursue track and field at the age of 14. She competed in the discipline of middle distance for the next 15 years. Outside of work, Becca is a National Level Athletics Official in the discipline of Starter and is working towards her Level 5 Starter Designation.”

Brittany Arner

VP, Ticketing & Hospitality

York United FC

“Sport has been a cornerstone of Brittany’s life for a long time. She studied Sports Management at the University of Windsor and has spent the last decade immersed in some of the most high-profile organizations in the country, consistently delving into the special relationship between teams and supporters. Starting out with the Edmonton Oilers as a sales rep, she remained in the hockey world and later took up an Account Executive role with the Hamilton Bulldogs. In 2015, she headed for the west coast to become Group Sales Executive with the BC Lions before beginning her career in the Canadian Premier League.

Starting with Pacific FC as Sales and Service Manager, Brittany then moved to Winnipeg as Valour FC’s Director of Ticketing. Since 2020, she’s been Vice President of Ticketing and Hospitality for York United and increasingly involved in game-day operations. Motivated by the unending possibilities of the domestic game in the country, she’s excited for what promises to be a special season for The Nine Stripes.”

Caitlin O’Brien

Coordinator, Operations

Atlético Ottawa

“Caitlin is a recent graduate from the University of British Columbia with degrees in Psychology and Business. She has always been drawn to the world of sports. In the summer of 2021, Caitlin landed a job with Atletico Ottawa as a Ticket Sales employee, and from that moment on, she knew she had found her niche. Caitlin’s dedication to her work and the team has been evident from the very beginning. Her role in Ticket Sales provided her with a unique opportunity to build relationships with both the club members and the community, which has been invaluable to her work in subsequent roles. In 2022, Caitlin took on a multi-role position as a Community Engagement Coordinator and Operations Coordinator, where she worked tirelessly to create a bridge between the club and the fans. Now, Caitlin is taking on a full-time position in Operations for the 2023 season, a role that she has long dreamed of. Her passion for the sport, combined with her talent and dedication, make Caitlin an essential member of the Atletico Ottawa team. Whether she’s engaging with fans, overseeing operations, or contributing to the club in other ways, Caitlin’s hard work and commitment continue to make a difference both on and off the field.“

Casey Mitropoulos

Senior Accountant

Forge FC

Celeste Gallego

Account Executive, Group & Ticket Sales

Valour FC

“Celeste Gallego grew up in Winnipeg, Man. where she attended the University of Manitoba, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in the fall of 2021 and completed 5 years of eligibility with the Bison Women’s Soccer team. Her passion has always been in sport but specifically in soccer. Celeste began her journey in the sports industry when she moved to Victoria, BC with her fiancé, Valour FC’s Jordan Haynes, She worked with Pacific FC working in ticketing as an Account Manager, Ticketing and New Business, gaining the opportunity to work with various colleagues within the Canadian Premier League and at many matches within Canadian soccer. During her time at Pacific FC, Celeste played her part in hosting the CANWNT at Starlight Stadium during their Celebration Tour, as well as hosting two Scotiabank Concacaf League matches, when Pacific FC faced Waterhouse FC and C.S. Herediano.

Celeste’s career in sport continued at the Winnipeg Football Club as an Account Executive, Group and Ticket Sales Representative, after she moved back home in December of 2022. Celeste’s aspirations include progressing the game of soccer in Canada.”

Dr. Danielle Braidwood

Team Doctor

Atlético Ottawa

“Dr. Danielle Braidwood is Atlético Ottawa’s club doctor and a member of the club since its inception in early 2020. The skilled and experienced medical professional studied at McGill University and completed her Family Medicine Residency at the University of Ottawa. She also completed a Sport Medicine Fellowship at McGill, which allowed her to gain experience working with national teams at international events such as Canada Soccer (Women’s programs), Canada Basketball, and Freestyle Canada. She has also worked at multisport games, including the Canada Games and PanAm Games.

Dr. Braidwood’s passion for sports has led her to work with many teams, including most recently as the Team Physician for the Carleton Ravens Women’s Soccer program and the Ottawa Outlaws (AUDL professional ultimate frisbee). Her increasing involvement in soccer over the past decade made joining Atlético Ottawa a natural fit.

As a key member of Atlético Ottawa team, Dr. Braidwood has been able to witness the growth of the squad and the sport firsthand and loves being part of the club. Her work is vital in ensuring the continued success of the first-team squad, with players and management relying on her expertise to keep the athletes in fighting shape. Dr. Braidwood’s dedication to her work makes her an invaluable asset to the Atlético Ottawa team and she has expressed her pride in being a part of the organization that is helping to grow the sport in the community.”

Emily Smith

Coordinator, Client Services & Corporate Partnerships

Forge FC

Eva Ou

Coordinator, Marketing

Forge FC

Hannah Wellon

Coordinator, Media

Cavalry FC

“Hannah has been with Cavalry FC for one year, where she has carved her niche within the club. Originally starting as an intern who assisted in day-to-day operations and administration, her infectious positive attitude helped lead her into a permanent role within media as the club’s Media Coordinator. Having pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology at the University of British Columbia, Hannah later discovered her passion for sport and began pursuing media within soccer. This led her to working within the English Premier League and Barclay’s Women’s Super League, among taking part in several other global projects. She now brings her knowledge to the Canadian Premier League as she leads the club’s media and communications.

Outside of work, Hannah is continuing her studies as she pursues a Diploma in Communications in Sports Organizations through FC Barcelona and enjoys spending time with her friends and family when she isn’t watching soccer.”

Jojo Yanijao Qian

Team Photographer

Forge FC

Katherine McLeod

Manager, Digital Marketing

Canadian Premier League

“On a day-to-day level I oversee our digital assets, like CanPL.ca, and collect data and other metrics to discover trends and growth opportunities. My favourite part of my job is when I get to develop campaigns linked to community interests, such as last year’s “Play As You Are” campaign, which highlighted the need for diversity, equity and inclusion within our League around Pride celebrations. 

Sport gave me my community and growth mindset. Without sport, I may not have made some lifelong friendships, built key personality traits that I like most about myself, or have a desire to share the joy I experience from sport with others. For all those reasons and more, I am thankful I am a woman in sport.“

Kira Raps

Manager, Soccer Operations

Pacific FC

“Kira is part of the fabric of Pacific FC, having been with the club since before it kicked off its first season in the CPL. She is a key part of the organization, a leader in all things soccer operations who has long since gained the trust of her colleagues within the club and across the League because of her commitment to supporting the Trident’s squad and coaching staff to be at its best at all times, as well as to growing the game of soccer in the country. Kira is encouraged by the strong, outspoken women who have paved the way in the sports industry and by those who have guided her and who stood alongside her as an athlete and now as a professional working in sports. She is thankful for the women who have, and who will, shape her and the changing landscape moving forward.”

Kristen Johnson

Director, Game Day Operations

Atlético Ottawa

“Kristen Johnson, known to most as just KJ, is a respected entertainment professional with extensive experience in various positions within the industry. She started her career with the Ottawa Senators in 1996, where she worked as a prop master and then as an assistant to the Game Day Producer/Director for two seasons. KJ was responsible for script supervision, entertainment organization, prop and costume creation, and assisting Randy with coordinating entertainers during the game.

After her stint with the Sens, Kristen worked in television and film, taking on roles in the art department, as assistant producer, and on-camera host. In 2014, she was contracted to organize the REDBLACKS community tour and tailgate parties, to tremendous success. When the Game Operations Manager position opened up, KJ was asked to fill in and was eventually hired full-time in the fall of 2014. She coordinated all entertainment elements for the REDBLACKS, Ottawa 67’s, and Ottawa Fury as the new Game Operations Manager.

KJ’s career then took her to Event Services, managing the department while fulfilling her duties as Game Operations Manager. She oversaw all events, including sports, concerts, and outside client events including the incredibly successful Ottawa Christmas Market. KJ came highly recommended to Atlético Ottawa, was hired as Game Director, and is entering her third season with the club as a key part of the day-to-day team. KJ still finds the time to organize and work at the Ottawa Christmas Market and is the logistics manager for the Nostalgia Festival. Kristen is an invaluable asset to any organization in the entertainment industry and one of the best Ottawa has to offer. “

Laura Armstrong

Senior Director, Communications

Canadian Premier League

“Laura is a life-long soccer fan, who is privileged to be able to play her part in telling the stories of the beautiful game. As a former reporter turned head of communications for the CPL, Laura has been on the Canadian soccer scene for nearly a decade. She is passionate about finding unique ways to share about the special people and community that make the CPL what it is. Over the past year, Laura was particularly empowered by getting to know and working alongside all the powerful women in and around the CPL and the Canadian soccer community who are playing a meaningful role in growing the game in Canada. She is excited for fans of the CPL to learn about all the various roles women play in the League, and hopes it inspires other girls and women to find a fit in the game, wherever that may be.”

Laura Ozoria

Lead Athletic Therapist

York United FC

“Laura grew up in Sudbury, Ont and has been involved in soccer ever since she was a child. Her passion for the beautiful game continued through her teenage years and blossomed during her time at Nipissing University, where she completed a four-year degree in Kinesiology. During that stint, Laura was a student athlete and played for the varsity soccer team. From there, she headed to Sheridan College and spent three years studying for her degree in Athletic Therapy. On the field, she continued to impress and proved instrumental for the Sheridan Bruins. She’s currently working towards her massage therapy certification and when not tending to players’ various aches and pains, you can find her snowboarding in the winter and hiking when the weather improves.”

She says: “I’ve always had a passion for sport and my university education was a way to stay connected. I’m excited to be a part of York United this season: my first experience in the pro sports world.”

Lyndsay Boyd

Director, Premium Services and Stadium Events

Forge FC

Mayssa Georgi

General Accountant

Canadian Premier League

“My role on the CPL’s Finance team allows me to work in a world that sparks passion within me. My interest in the soccer community goes back to my early years. Gatherings with friends and family to watch games. Keeping score of all our favourite teams throughout each season. Waiting impatiently for the next season to start. Now both my kids play the game and yes, I’m a proud Soccer Mom. I am always there on the sidelines during practices and games, cheering on my kids and their teammates. Some of our closest friends are from a beautiful soccer community that embraced my boys when we first moved back to Canada during the COVID-10 pandemic. 

As a Chartered Professional Accountant, I look forward to using my many years of prior experience in the sports and media world to assist with the growth of the game in Canada. I consider myself lucky to work for a League that is growing and that I am truly passionate about.“

Melissa Allen

Performance Dietitian

HFX Wanderers FC

Mylène Gagne

Athletic Therapist

Valour FC

“I come from the small francophone community of Sainte-Anne in southeastern Manitoba. I have always been an athlete growing up, and having sustained injuries myself as a player, wanted to work in a field that would allow me to help others with theirs and get them back to the sport they love. I have experience working with AAA hockey, volleyball, futsal and soccer teams at l’Université de Saint-Boniface. I graduated from the University of Winnipeg in 2022 and passed my National Certification Exam for Athletic Therapy in July of 2022.

Working as an athletic therapist at Valour FC has been an honour and privilege, as I get to be involved in my favourite sport and do the thing I love most: working with high-level athletes and helping them get back to top performance after an injury. My goal as a female athletic therapist working in professional sports is to be able to set an example for other girls and women who want to work in this profession. I want them to know that it is possible to achieve what you want, get that job you want, and thrive. Hard work gos a long way, and I am glad I get to share my passion for injury prevention in sports as a female therapist. As more females are entering the workforce in professional sports, I look forward to sharing that same drive and determination to prove that we deserve to be here.”

Nicole Demers

Associate Vice President, Business Operations

Forge FC

Savannah Ginter

Coordinator, Community Relations

Valour FC

“Savannah Ginter is a dynamic and community-oriented individual with a diverse background in the floral industry, event planning, and community relations. With a passion for bringing people together and making a positive impact in her community, Savannah is involved in organizing various community events such as youth soccer camps, autograph signings, donations, player appearances, and match day productions.

Savannah grew up in Lethbridge, Alta. and attended the University of Manitoba where she studied agriculture, with a focus on rocks and soil. Her childhood was filled with various sports, having played soccer, ringette, and hockey for many years. Despite the perceived challenges in working in a male-dominated sport, Savannah has found that Valour FC is a gender-diverse workplace with many females in leadership. Her experiences have encouraged her to inspire young females to work in sport and get involved in the industry. Savannah is dedicated to increasing Valour FC’s visibility in the community and with kids. She believes that Valour FC has the potential to bring people together and make a positive impact on the community. With a strong desire to bring more to the community, Savannah is a passionate advocate for community building and positive social change.”

Serena Lacelle

Coordinator, Graphic Designer

Forge FC

Shannon Connelly

Manager, Community Partnerships

Forge FC

Stephanie Lamanna

Coordinator, Public Relations

York United FC

“Immersed in sports from a young age, Stephanie played soccer (and hockey) growing up in Pickering, Ont. But when she enrolled at York University, everything intensified and she was a standout across her four years with the Lions, winning an OUA championship in 2019. She appeared in every game during her time there, while she also featured at League1 Ontario level for Woodbridge Strikers.

With a persistent interest in communications, Stephanie studied for a postgraduate degree in Public Relations – Corporate Communications at Seneca College and has been with York United since 2020, assisting with the club’s media outreach, promotion and game-days.”

Stephanie Wood

VP, Marketing & Business Development

Vancouver FC

“Stephanie Wood has been central to the launch of Vancouver FC as the club prepares for its inaugural season in the CPL. She is one of the brains behind the club’s look and feel, and has been involved in building VFC’s brand and aesthetic from the ground up, taking the local community into consideration every step of the way. When Stephanie isn’t focused on building VFC’s brand, she is doing whatever she can to ensure her club has a successful first season in the CPL. Stephanie knows just what it takes to get a team to the top, as she was Pacific FC’s director of marketing from club launch to 2022, during which time the club hoisted the CPL title in 2021. As a member of Pacific, Stephanie was key to developing Pacific’s branding and identity from the ground up. In particular, she encouraged the club’s work with the local Indigenous community on Vancouver Island, including working with Coast Salish and Kwakwaka’wakw artist Johnny Maynard Jr. to bring his award winning Indigenous kit design to life. Stephanie will continue to look to make such an impact in the community with VFC. “

Teresa Spinelli

Director, Partnership Marketing & Events

Canadian Premier League

“I am responsible for building and maintaining relationships with partners and leading the development of their activations on behalf of the Canadian Premier League. As a woman who loved to watch and played all sports growing up, having the opportunity to work in the industry is very meaningful. I always had a passion for soccer as a player and coach. The Canadian Premier League has opened up doors for people like me, who were not star athletes, to continue contributing to the growth of this wonderful game in our own way.

When I was growing up, seeing women working in the industry was rare. I hope that by sharing our experiences, my colleagues and I can be a source of inspiration for young girls today.“

Toni Ormond

Coordinator, Guest Experience

Forge FC

Trisha Lees

Public Relations & Communications

Pacific FC

“Trisha Lees is the public relations and marketing lead for Pacific FC. From the beginning, she has supported the club and the CPL through her extensive network of media and community contacts, proudly bringing people together to celebrate professional football on Vancouver Island. In addition to her work with Pacific, Trisha owns and runs a Victoria-based public relations company, Rep Lab Communications, which she founded in 2014. She works with companies from BC, Alberta and the Northwest Territories, helping to build their reputations and maintain them in times of crisis. Trisha’s work in public relations spans more than 20 years, with roles as the spokesperson for Alberta Children’s Hospital and several agency positions in Calgary and Victoria. Beginning her career as a journalist in Houston, Texas, she channeled her skills into crafting communication plans upon her return to Canada. She holds a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) specializing in management consulting in addition to graduate certificates in journalism and public relations and a Bachelor of Arts in Women’s Studies.

Trisha’s proudest achievement is being a mother to her two daughters, Rowan and Bronwyn, who are athletes and future female leaders.”