SURREY, B.C. – Unity Football Club is proud to announce Paul Ballard as its new Sporting Director and Club Head Coach. With extensive experience as both a player and coach, Ballard will play a key role in advancing the club’s mission to create meaningful pathways for athletes to thrive on and off the field.
At Unity FC, our community—players, fans, stakeholders, and investors—drives us. With Ballard’s leadership, we are ready to take Unity FC to new heights. Ballard will oversee all on-field programming, including our League1 men’s and women’s teams, and lead player development initiatives designed to help athletes of all ages and levels reach their full potential.
Ballard brings a wealth of experience to the role, including his time at Bishop’s University, where he served as Director of Soccer and Leadership Coordinator. He holds both a UEFA A Coaching License and a Canada Soccer A License, along with a master’s degree in leadership from Trinity Western University. His coaching experience also includes roles with Coquitlam Metro-Ford, Langley United, and as an assistant coach alongside Mike Shearon with the TWU Spartans men’s soccer program. Additionally, Ballard completed an internship with Calgary Foothills UWS, working under Troye Flannery.
His playing career was equally impressive, spanning North America and beyond. After earning a trial with Manchester City at just 14 years old, Ballard went on to represent Canada at the U20 Men’s National Team level. He began his youth career with Coquitlam Metro-Ford and later attended Trinity Western University, where he was a two-time All-Canadian and a national bronze medalist. While at TWU, Ballard joined the Vancouver Whitecaps’ developmental program, which propelled him into a professional playing career that included time in the USL with Cleveland City, and international stints in South Africa with Football Club Azziz Kara, and in Northern Ireland with H&W Welders and Dundela FC.
Following the conclusion of his playing career, Ballard transitioned into coaching, driven by a deep passion for the game and a commitment to developing future generations of players.
“We’re excited to welcome Paul to Unity FC,” said Kelcey Brade, President of Unity FC. “Having known Paul for over 20 years, I can confidently say his leadership, both on and off the field, is exceptional. His unwavering commitment to developing people and building strong communities aligns perfectly with our club’s mission. I’m confident that Paul will help elevate Unity FC and build on our foundation of opportunity and belonging.”
As part of Unity FC’s continued commitment to nurturing talent and building a strong community foundation, Ballard will lead the strategic development of both youth and professional amateur programs. His holistic-leadership approach—centered on inclusion, high performance, and character—will further reinforce Unity FC’s culture of excellence.
“I’m honoured to join Unity FC and excited for the opportunity to work alongside such a passionate and dedicated community of athletes, coaches, and supporters,” said Ballard. “What drew me to Unity FC is its unwavering commitment to creating an environment where athletes can thrive—both on and off the field. I look forward to contributing to the club’s growth, not only in terms of competition but also as a vibrant community hub where excellence and belonging go hand in hand.”
Ballard’s existing relationships with Unity FC coaches—including Troye Flannery, Mike Shearon, Graham Roxburgh, Rob Giesbrecht, and Brenda Stratton—will help ensure a smooth transition and support a unified vision for success. With Paul leading the charge, Unity FC is positioned for an exciting future as a beacon for soccer development in the region.
For media inquiries, please contact:
media@unityfc.ca
About Unity FC
Unity FC is a professional amateur soccer club based in Surrey, B.C., competing in League1 BC, a division of League1 Canada. Focused on player development, Unity FC provides a platform for athletes to succeed both on the field and in life, with a commitment to helping every player grow into their full potential.
About League1 BC
League1 BC, as part of League1 Canada, is at the forefront of Canada’s soccer evolution, recognized as the top-tier professional amateur, developmental soccer league, sitting just below the Canadian Premier League (men) and Northern Super League (women). League1 Canada is the fastest-growing soccer league in Canada and provides a unique platform in the Canadian sports scene where both men’s and women’s teams compete under one umbrella, with nearly 50 clubs across the country.
About Unity FC X Surrey United Alliance
The Unity FC x Surrey United Alliance combines the strengths of both organizations to provide a clear pathway for soccer players at every stage of development. By integrating Unity FC’s semi-professional programs with Surrey United’s youth development, the alliance offers athletes a comprehensive journey from grassroots soccer to professional opportunities. Through this collaboration, players gain access to top-tier training, mentorship, and competitive experiences, ensuring a strong foundation for their growth and success in the sport.