SURREY, B.C. – Unity Football Club announced Friday that it has reached an agreement to transfer five key players—Elizabeth Hicks, Tristan Corneil, Kristen Sakaki, Jenna Baxter, and Seina Kashima—to Vancouver Rise FC’s League1 BC team for the remainder of the season. The move comes ahead of Rise FC's upcoming participation in the Concacaf W Champions Cup, one of North America's premier women's soccer tournaments.
Rise FC Seeks to Strengthen Squad for Champions Cup
Ahead of the prestigious competition, Rise FC has been looking to enhance its roster with experienced players who can contribute at the highest level. Baxter, Corneil, Hicks, Kashima, and Sakaki have each delivered standout performances this season, earning the opportunity to be part of Rise FC’s squad for the Concacaf W Champions Cup. There, they will compete against some of the top professional women’s teams across North America.
Paul Ballard on Player Transfer
“I couldn’t be prouder of these players,” said Paul Ballard, Sporting Director of Unity FC. “They’re not only gifted athletes but exceptional individuals who have earned every bit of this opportunity to be part of a Concacaf W Champions Cup roster. Transitions like this are never easy, but they’re a natural part of the game. When one door closes, another opens – and as a club, we’re excited to see who rises to the occasion and steps into these newly vacant roles.”
A Bittersweet Departure for Unity FC
“It is a bittersweet day for the club,” said Kelcey Brade, President of Unity FC. “While we are sad to see these players go, we are incredibly proud of them and what they’ve accomplished during their time with us. I’m excited that Liz, Jenna, Seina, Kristen, and Tristan now have the chance to compete in the Concacaf W Champions Cup. This is an incredible opportunity for them to showcase their talent on the international stage.
“Our goal for this group this season was to win the league, secure the inter-provincials, and qualify for the next Concacaf W Champions Cup. Although we fell short of that ultimate goal, we’ve remained true to our commitment to providing ambitious players with the opportunities to achieve their dreams.”
Player Highlights: Key Contributors to Unity FC's Success
The transfer marks a significant moment in the careers of these five players, who have all been integral to Unity FC’s rise in competitive prominence within League1 BC.
- Elizabeth Hicks, captain of Unity FC, was named the league’s 2024 Defensive Player of the Year and has been a constant presence in the club’s backline.
- Jenna Baxter, a dynamic forward, is the league’s top goal scorer this season with 9 goals to date.
- Tristan Corneil, a versatile defender, has been a stalwart for Unity, providing stability and leadership in defense.
- Kristen Sakaki, a tenacious defender and midfielder, has been crucial in neutralizing the opposition’s attacking threats.
- Seina Kashima, a quick and creative attacking player, has impressed with her work ethic and ability to break down defensive lines, creating opportunities for her teammates.
Exciting New Chapter with Rise FC
As part of their move, all five players will now join a roster that will compete at the highest level in North American women’s soccer. This is an exciting opportunity for the former Unity FC players to showcase their abilities on an international stage, playing against some of the best competition available.
Looking Forward: Unity FC’s Mission Continues
While Unity FC will miss these players and their contributions for the remainder of the season, the club remains incredibly proud of their accomplishments and continued development. The transfer represents a key part of the club’s mission to provide pathways for players to compete at the highest level.
The club will continue to focus on its goals for the remainder of the season and remains committed to fostering a competitive, resilient team capable of finishing strong.
Unity FC’s fans, staff, and players will continue to cheer for these talented women, who have helped elevate the club’s standing and will now represent Unity FC on the international stage. The club is proud of the players' progress and remains dedicated to its role in supporting the growth of young, ambitious athletes in the soccer community.
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.