Want proof that women’s soccer in this country is gaining exposure?
Just go to a Vancouver Canucks game.
Burnaby native Christine Sinclair — who captains Canada’s national team as it kicks off CONCACAF Olympic qualifying Thursday at BC Place against Haiti —quickly learned that she can no longer just blend into a crowd.
“We went to the game and people actually knew who we were,” Sinclair said. “It’s exciting. (The awareness) is definitely growing. We don’t get many opportunities to play home games, but with the qualifiers and Canada hosting the 2015 World Cup, it’s on people’s minds.”
The game’s popularity hit a new high last year with a thrilling women’s World Cup tournament.
Despite the tournament captivating Canadian audiences, Sinclair and company crashed out of the competition with three losses in the group stage.
Led by new coach John Herdman, the team is trying to make amends at home by booking a ticket to the Olympics.
It’s an opportunity that Sinclair, the nation’s all-time highest scorer, with 120 goals, relishes.
“I’m very proud of what I’ve accomplished so far and how the national team has progressed since I’ve been here,” said the 28-year-old. “But ideally, I want this team to get a medal in the World Cup or Olympics. As a team, we need to win something to solidify our place in history.”
That’s why she’s taking the tournament in Vancouver so seriously, despite being surrounded by friends and family.
“When we got here, we got two days away from soccer, and I visited my family and friends,” she said. “Since we’ve been back in camp, it’s been strictly soccer and business. We need to stay focused.”
The CONCACAF Olympic qualifying tournament features eight teams vying for just two spots to the 2012 Olympics.
The most anticipated matches are on Jan. 27, when the semifinals will determine which teams qualify for London.
Local news from metronews.ca/vancouver
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