Image: Chilliwack FC / Chilliwack FC and Tzeachten FC say they're excited to announce a formal agreement to move towards an amalgamation of the two soccer clubs.
Chilliwack soccer clubs to merge

Chilliwack soccer clubs announce historic merger

Apr 23, 2025 | 9:28 AM

CHILLIWACK — Chilliwack FC and Tzeachten FC say they’re excited to announce a formal agreement to move towards an amalgamation of the two soccer clubs.

According to a joint statement from Tzeachten FC president Derek Epp, who is also chief of Tzeachen First Nation, and Chilliwack FC president Darryn Botha, the two clubs will merge into a unified club, Tzeachten Chilliwack United (TC United), a move that marks a significant step forward in strengthening youth soccer in the region and expanding access to quality programming for players in the eastern Fraser Valley.

In addition to serving Chilliwack, the newly formed club will serve the entire eastern Fraser Valley, including communities east of Chilliwack, which currently have no dedicated soccer clubs. This expansion will provide increased access to organized youth soccer and development opportunities for families across the broader region.

A memorandum of understanding was signed earlier this month by both club presidents, signalling the start of a collaborative journey toward building a single club that honours both legacies while embracing a united future.

“This merger is about more than combining clubs—it’s about combining strengths,” Botha said. “We believe we’re better together, and this partnership sets the foundation for something truly special for our players, coaches, and families.”

“Coming together is the best decision for our region’s soccer community, and this is an important step towards achieving our collective goals of providing an inclusive environment for all levels of soccer,” said Tzeachten Chief Derek Epp. “By joining forces, we can offer more opportunities, deeper community connections, and a shared vision that reflects the values both clubs have long upheld. I’m so proud of how both clubs have unified to put the kids and community first.”

As part of this transition, both clubs say they are committed to clear communication, transparency, and ongoing support for players, families, and coaches. A detailed FAQ document addressing key questions about teams, coaches, schedules, and fees will be posted on both club’s websites in the near future. Families will also be invited to attend upcoming town hall meetings to ask questions, provide input, and hear directly from club leadership. Special General Meetings (SGMs) and Annual General Meetings (AGMs) will also be held to ensure proper governance and member engagement throughout the process.

This marks Phase 1 of a four-phase rollout plan that includes the following deliverables:

• A brand reveal campaign in late spring

• Registration and open training sessions during summer

• A launch celebration in September to officially welcome the new club

With the merger, the clubs say players and their families can anticipate improved programming, enhanced coaching development, and a renewed focus on excellence, community, and opportunity. From grassroots to high-performance levels, the new club will be better positioned to leverage one of the strongest soccer development pathways in the Fraser Valley.

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