Latest news with #JacobShaffelburg
CTV News
5 days ago
- Lifestyle
- CTV News
‘I feel like I have a responsibility': N.S. soccer star gives back to help grow the game
Most children who dream of a career in sports don't get the opportunity to meet their heroes. However, about 100 young athletes got the chance on Wednesday in Nova Scotia. 'I still remember, just behind those doors, meeting Shaff (Jacob Shaffelburg) for the first time,' said Ben Marsh, Canada Games and U21 Wanderer player. 'I was like, this is a very, very cool moment. So, I think for them getting to do that now, where he's even achieved way more is very cool.' Marsh coaches part time. He has done so for three years, giving back to the soccer community and helping, in his way, to grow the game. 'The first year wasn't as consistent. But the past two, I've been very consistent. I've loved being around the game and getting to connect with the kids on that level,' he explained. 'It's something I really enjoy.' For young soccer players, interacting with top athletes in their sport is extremely beneficial. 'It's unbelievable. The kids here today they'll get to meet a local legend, their hero,' said Lindsay MacAskill, executive director of Soccer Nova Scotia. 'And hopefully one day we'll see one of these kids on the national stage.' Jacob Shaffelburg Jacob Shaffelburg visits Soccer Nova Scotia athletes on June 5, 2025. (Source: Instagram/CANMNT) Jacob Shaffelburg was in town with the Canada Men's National Team and swung by BMO Soccer Centre to sign autographs and talk to kids playing the sport he loves. 'It means a lot, I've been doing this since 2019,' he told media Wednesday. 'I think just trying to get back here and help, whether it's my boyhood club, Valley United, or here at Soccer Nova Scotia. But whatever I can do to help out and give those guys belief and confidence that it's doable, I'll do whatever I can.' Shaffelburg stressed how important it is for kids to see representations of themselves in professional clubs, something Marsh echoed. 'Growing up here for a long time there hasn't really been that step,' said Marsh. 'And now with the Wanderers and the Tides, like the game's growing. I think it's huge for all the young kids who are playing.' Shaffelburg adds he wished he had those two teams to look up to when he was young. 'For the kids, you know, these guys right now have their teams to look up to,' he said. Jacob Shaffelburg Jacob Shaffelburg visits Soccer Nova Scotia athletes on June 5, 2025. (Source: Instagram/CANMNT) 'I think, obviously having the men (Team Canada) here, had the women (Team Canada) here a few years ago, now with the Tides and the Wanderers… I think it shows that Halifax is now a sport city, and hopefully we'll see some big things coming in the future. We have of course, a lot to look forward to coming up in 2026,' added MacAskill. And the proof of growth is in the numbers. 'So, we have 25,000 registered players. Right now, we have like 18,000 under the age of 15,' said MacAskill. 'Were the biggest participatory sport out of all sports in Nova Scotia and we're on a rise. We've seen 22 per cent growth since 2019.' Which is also around the time Shaffelburg started coming back and donating time. But it's more than that for Soccer NS. 'We've seen a lot of newcomers join the sport. Which has been unbelievable,' added MacAskill. 'You know, soccer is the world's game. It's something consistent. It's something that is in their culture and we're happy to welcome them and, have them involved.' It also helps that coaches like Mike Locke continue to take an interest. Locke, who's coached for 30 years, heads up the Canada Games team. He says having one of his former players (Shaffelburg) stop by is encouraging. 'I think it gives kids, you know, someone to look up to and realize that the dream is possible,' said Locke. 'And if you work hard enough, that you can achieve it. And, you know, he's living proof of that.' For Shaffelburg, giving back to the community that raised him is an obvious pathway. 'I feel like I have a responsibility to give back as much as possible when I come home.' For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
CTV News
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Maritime Messi's family supports soccer dreams as Team Canada lands on the East Coast
Playing on Nova Scotian soil was nothing new for Jacob Shaffelburg, but representing his country while doing so was a first. 'It was cool. I mean, I've kind of had a bit of it when I played here a long time ago,' explained Shaffelburg of the fans cheering his name when he stepped on the grass at the Wanderers Grounds Tuesday. 'So it kind of brought back some memories, but, coming back with the national team, this is a much different feeling and a lot of pride.' As part of an initiative started by head coach Jesse Marsch, the men's national team is heading to communities across Canada to spark some interaction prior to the 2026 World Cup being co-hosted in the country for the first time. Approximately 2,500 fans took in open practice Tuesday evening, as the men's team came to Halifax for the first time in their history. 'We've talked a lot about like creating a movement, you know, and I've also been calling this the people's team,' said Marsch. 'And I think if we want it to really feel like that, that we have to come to all the communities that we have to make the players really approachable. And I think, especially these kids, they have to be familiar with their heroes and they want to see them up close.' 'So all of these efforts, I think, have led to us, to having a really good experience overall with being in different communities and here in Halifax,' he added. For Shaffelburg, playing at home in front of family and friends meant the world and, for his family, it was nothing short of remarkable. 'Unbelievable,' said Marvin Messom, Shaffelburg's maternal grandfather. 'Just from Port Williams. Just unbelievable.' Messom had tears in his eyes as the young soccer star approached him, beaming with pride and awe at the number of jerseys and cheers for his grandson. 'The only thing he got from me was the hair,' Messom joked, to which Shaffelburg added, 'And the emotional side.' The Maritime Messi got about 80 tickets for friends and family to come to the event and the section was full, including his wife Robyne and nine-month-old daughter Daisy. 'It's amazing to see the support for sure,' smiled Robyne as Daisy beamed in her arms. 'It's kind of funny when he told me when we first met that he played soccer, I was like, 'OK, I played volleyball in high school, why are you telling me this?'' she laughed, adding, 'I didn't understand the kind of magnitude of what he meant by that now, like seeing everyone and their support for him.' For Shaffelburg, having both his and his wife's family in attendance was something special as they are both from the province. While the sounds didn't bother young Daisy, as she's used to the noise back in Nashville where her dad plays from MLS Nashville FC, Robyne said they need to get used to the atmosphere. 'There's fireworks and there's loud music all the time, so I think she's kind of like, used to it at this point,' Robyne said. 'So I try to take her. I'm like, 'You know what? We've got a long career soccer ahead of us, so we're going to the games. Even if, you know, they're past bedtime'.' That career in soccer is only growing as the World Cup approaches and, for the Shaffelburgs, so is their family. 'Are you excited for World Cup?' Robyne asked Daisy. 'I'll have another one as well by then. I'm five months pregnant with a little boy. I know I'm going to have my hands full at those games… maybe she'll go hang out with Nani.' As for the experience in Nova Scotia, the energy was palpable at the Wanderers Grounds as fans of all ages showed up to meet their heroes. Jacob Shaffelburg 2 Jacob Shaffelburg signing autographs at the Wanderers Grounds in Halifax on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. (Brianne Foley/CTV Atlantic) 'I probably signed about 400 Shaffelburg jerseys and, you know, we obviously knew how popular Jacob is in this region. They should be very proud of them,' said Marsch. 'We're really pleased with his overall performances and development, and we're excited to keep pushing him and keep preparing them for the World Cup next summer.' For Shaffelburg, the moment was amazing, but his journey continues as he strives to represent the province to the best of his ability in red and white. 'Just working hard I guess,' he said of his success so far. 'Making the most of my opportunities and just being humble and remembering where I'm from and trying to make Port Williams and Nova Scotia proud.' For grandpa, he's already done that. 'Extremely proud. Don't push me,' Messom said with tears in his eyes. Team Canada heads back to Toronto to host the inaugural Canadian Sheild Tournament on Saturday at BMO Field. For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
CBC
6 days ago
- General
- CBC
Port Williams, N.S., soccer player gets star treatment at Canada's practice in Halifax
Port Williams, N.S., soccer player Jacob Shaffelburg was the star attraction Tuesday night as Canada's men's national team held an open training session in Halifax. Brothers Grady and Eben Hollis, who travelled from the Annapolis Valley with their family, were among the estimated 2,500 people who turned out to welcome Shaffelburg home as the squad made its first appearance at the Wanderers Grounds. "Just seeing him playing and scoring goals — it's a little different than just somebody from Canada," said Grady, 17. "I like that he's the same position as me and we shoot with both of our feet," said Eben, 8. Both boys were wearing Canada jerseys sporting Shaffelburg's name and his number 14, as were many of the fans throughout the crowd. "Growing up, I never would have imagined this kind of situation, so to have all my family and my wife's family here to support me is amazing," Shaffelburg said after the session. The 25-year-old has become an important part of the national team, adding speed to the attack and scoring some key goals in big games. Tuesday's session was part of the team's training camp in Halifax prior to upcoming matches against Ukraine and Ivory Coast, in preparation for the 2026 World Cup that Canada is jointly hosting with the United States and Mexico. The session was a relaxed affair and players interacted with fans throughout the event before signing autographs and posing for photographs afterward. Shaffelburg, who also plays for Major League Soccer club Nashville, provided as many as 80 tickets for family and friends to be in the crowd. "To come home and have community support and everyone here, I know it means a lot to Jacob and it certainly means a lot to us as a family. There are a lot of people here who have had a lot to do with his development," said his mom, Linda Shaffelburg. Marvin Messom is proud of how his grandson is representing Port Williams, a village about 95 kilometres northwest of Halifax. "I don't know where he got it, but he never got the speed from me," Messom joked. "I don't know, but he's got the speed and he just got the natural touch." The national team partnered with the Halifax Wanderers to stage Tuesday's event. "Halifax now I think is one of the top cities in the country for supporting soccer," said Derek Martin, the Wanderers founder and president, pointing to the Canadian Premier League team's consistent sellouts, the emergence of the Halifax Tides professional women's team in the Northern Super League, and the Canadian women's national team game that Halifax hosted in 2023. "Having these guys here today and selling 2,500 tickets just to have people come and watch a practice" is further evidence, Martin said. While it was a special night for Shaffelburg, he said he is staying grounded and focused on the year ahead. "Just being humble, remembering where I'm from and trying to make Port Williams and Nova Scotia super proud," he said.
Time of India
23-05-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Players to watch: Top 10 soccer stars to watch out for in 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup
Image Source: Getty The big CONCACAF Gold Cup kicks off on June 14, 2025, and fans are getting excited to see which players will stand out. Teams from across North America will play in stadiums in the US and Canada. This tournament matters a lot since the World Cup is just next year. With many big names missing, new players have a chance to make a name for themselves. The Gold Cup will show us who might be the next generation of soccer stars as teams fight to be the best in the region. Rising MLS stars fill the void as key players sit out Many famous players won't play in this tournament, mostly from the US team. Christian Pulisic will take a break after his busy season with AC Milan. Other missing US stars include Timothy Weah, Weston McKennie, Gio Reyna, Yunus Musah, and Antonee Robinson. — GoldCup (@GoldCup) This gives MLS players a big chance to shine. Brian White from Vancouver Whitecaps comes in hot with eight goals this season. Patrick Agyemang from Charlotte FC could be a surprise star with his natural talent for scoring. Sebastian Berhalter gets his first call-up and can show off his passing skills. For Mexico, the team most likely to win, goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa wants to add another trophy to his collection. Santiago Gimenez brings his goal skills from Feyenoord, while Luis Romo brings solid leadership in midfield. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trade Bitcoin & Ethereum – No Wallet Needed! IC Markets Start Now Undo Caribbean talent ready to shine on continental stage Jamaica has exciting young players like teenagers Tyrese Hall and Jinairo Johnson in coach Steve McClaren's team. Leon Bailey from Aston Villa remains their biggest star, bringing his speed and Premier League experience. Canada hopes to do well with a mix of players from Europe and the MLS. Jacob Shaffelburg's crazy speed for Nashville SC makes him dangerous, while Portland's goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau gives them stability. Also Read: Brazil vs Argentina head-to-head record explained: Who leads the rivalry? Panama's Adalberto Carrasquilla wants to build on his strong showing from 2023 when they made it to the final. His creative play will be key in Group C against Jamaica, Guatemala, and Guadeloupe. Top 10 soccer players to watch out for in the tournament Diego Luna (USA) Sebastian Berhalter (USA) Folarin Balogun (USA) Sergiño Dest (USA) Keylor Navas (Costa Rica) Christopher Jullien (Guadeloupe) Tajon Buchanan (Canada) Jacob Shaffelburg (Canada) Alex Roldán (El Salvador) Bryan Acosta (Honduras) Get IPL 2025 match schedules , squads , points table , and live scores for CSK , MI , RCB , KKR , SRH , LSG , DC , GT , PBKS , and RR . Check the latest IPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap standings.
Fox Sports
11-05-2025
- Sport
- Fox Sports
Mukhtar, Shaffelburg lift Nashville past Charlotte 2-1 amid supporters' immigration worries
Associated Press NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Hany Mukhtar tied it and Jacob Shaffelburg scored the go-ahead goal, lifting Nashville SC to a 2-1 victory over Charlotte FC on Saturday night in a match that took a back seat to immigration issues. Thousands of Nashville supporters did not attend the game and many of those in attendance held signs that said 'We are not all here' in English and 'No estamos todo aqui' in Spanish in response to increased ICE activity in Tennessee. La Brigada De Oro, a vibrant Nashville supporters' group, canceled game-day activities. On the pitch, Charlotte scored first when Liel Abada delivered a right-footed shot from the right side of the box to the bottom left corner three minutes into the second half. Mukhtar tied it a minute later when he scored with a right-footed shot from the right side of the box. Shaffelburg put Nashville ahead in the 54th minute when he scored with a left-footed shot from the right side of the box. Nashville (6-4-2, 20 points) had a 9-4 advantage in shots on goal. Joe Willis made three saves. Charlotte (6-5-1, 19 points) has lost three in a row following a three-game win streak. Kristijan Kahlina had seven saves. Nashville hosts the New York Red Bulls on Wednesday and Charlotte visits Orlando City. ___ AP soccer:
