ICSF and Columbus FC to Become One Youth to Adult Soccer Club
June 27, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Vancouver, BC - The Italian Canadian Sports Federation (ICSF) and Columbus FC today are excited to announce the union of their two iconic East Vancouver Italian Canadian soccer organizations, to create a stronger and larger youth to adult soccer club called ICSF Columbus FC. The coming together of the two clubs will form one of the largest Italian Canadian soccer organizations in Western Canada and will be inclusive to all.
“The formation of ICSF COLUMBUS FC will support participation for youth and adult players, as well as provide additional and increased player development opportunities and pathways. ICSF Columbus FC will enhance standards for youth and adult players of all ages at both highly competitive and recreational levels. We are extremely excited with what the future holds in store with the coming together of these two great soccer organizations as we see the game and organizations evolving around us. This is truly a monumental and historic addition to our sports society, and ICSF COLUMBUS FC is fully committed to becoming the best soccer club for all ages and at all levels in British Columbia,” says Frank Valente, President of the ICSF.
“It is with great pleasure and excitement that we enter into a partnership with ICSF. This is an important strategic partnership for Columbus FC and the ICSF as it provides a vertical alignment and opportunities for all players to continue playing adult football upon graduating from youth soccer. Columbus, rich in tradition, history, success, and inducted into the Canadian Soccer Hall of Fame in 2013, are honoured to be partnered with the ICSF who are renowned for its soccer culture and involvement in the community. We look forward to working together on player opportunities and strategic initiatives for the benefit of both clubs’ members as we become one”. Forza “ICSF COLUMBUS FC”. Peter Battistin- President of Columbus FC
“The VYSA District congratulates ICSF and Columbus FC for bringing together two of Vancouver’s most well known and respected names within the local youth and adult soccer communities to form the new ICSF Columbus Football Club. This merger brings together two long term iconic brands into a single club, which we hope will continue to nurture development and promote greater participation in local youth soccer,” Dave Valinho, VYSA Chair.
The future is bright, and the opportunities are endless, as we come together to embark on this new exciting football journey ahead as ICSF Columbus FC!
-30-
About ICSF
The Italian Canadian Sports Federation (ICSF) was founded in 1979 with a mission to use sports as a means of bringing the Italian Canadian Community of the Lower Mainland together. The founders of the ICSF initially worked hard to organize sports programs for children of Italian immigrants with a focus on soccer, the sport most cherished and adored in Italy! The hard work of the founding fathers has proven fruitful, as the ICSF has become a well-respected soccer organization in British Columbia, winning many youth championships and more importantly developing numerous players who have gone on to amateur, collegiate and professional journeys. Today the ICSF has become a club for all!
About Columbus FC
Columbus FC is a soccer club that is based in East Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Founded in 1953 the club’s purpose was to provide a team for the many Italian immigrants who settled in East Vancouver. Since its’ foundation, the club has become one of the most successful amateur soccer organizations in Canada with men’s and women’s teams competing at all ages. Columbus FC has won seven (7) Canadian Men’s Open and Master’s National Championships, six (6) British Columbia Men’s Open Provincial Championships, and in 2013, was inducted into the Canada Soccer Hall of Fame as a “Organization of Distinction “.
For media inquiries please contact info@icsf.ca.