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Soccer Legend

Christine Sinclair Day proclaimed to honour B.C. soccer legend

Dec 1, 2023 | 9:51 AM

VANCOUVER — December 12 is set to become Christine Sinclair Day in British Columbia, a day dedicated to celebrating the unparalleled career and extraordinary achievements of Canadian women’s soccer legend Christine Sinclair from Burnaby.

Lana Popham, B.C. Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport, acknowledged the significance of the day through Sinclair’s impact on soccer and her role as a Canadian sports icon. “Christine’s talent and character have brought the world’s attention to our province and country and remind us that big goals are attainable with passion, discipline, and sportsmanship.”

The official proclamation will be made by Ravi Parmar, MLA for Langford-Juan de Fuca, during tonight’s (Dec. 1) international friendly against Australia at Langford’s Starlight Stadium. The game will be Sinclair’s second last game for Canada. The chosen date symbolizes Sinclair’s jersey number, 12, and her birth date, June 12.

Born and raised in Burnaby, Sinclair made her debut for the Canadian national team at the age of 16. Her illustrious career spans two decades, including multiple FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments, three Olympic medals, and a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Sinclair holds the record for the most international goals scored by any player in women’s soccer history.

In a government news release, Sinclair expressed her gratitude for the recognition. “It has and will always be an incredible honor to be recognized by my hometown and province.” Sinclair hopes Christine Sinclair Day will inspire people to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals.

The celebrations will culminate on Dec. 6 at BC Place with Sinclair’s retirement party, featuring a fireside chat with Sinclair and former teammate Stephanie Labbé, and a performance by Juno-Award-winning musician Dallas Smith. Net proceeds from the event will contribute to the new Christine Sinclair Foundation, dedicated to empowering girls through the Girls with Goals initiative.