TESTIMONIALS

"As an athlete, as a parent or as a spectator, you are taking part in much more than multi-ethnic soccer Tournament; you are expressing one of Canada's most cherished values: acceptance. We live in a country where we have understood that we are rich not despite our diversity but because of it. For me this is a message that will need to be repeated from generation to generation to make sure that this core value of what makes us Canadian never dies."

The Honorable MP Justin Trudeau

"In some parts of the world this type of event could never happen. People from different religions and cultures getting together to enjoy each other's company. Groups that sometimes find themselves pitted against each other on the battle field, running side by side on the soccer field. Palestinians alongside Israelis, players from Egypt, Portugal, and the Caribbean... Their stories span the globe. Competition and sport unifies all players. A message being passed on, on the soccer field and an example to live and play by."

Canadian Television (CTV)

"Vancouver International Soccer Festival is a wonderful contributor to the sporting and cultural life of our city. When the world comes to Vancouver in 2010, they are going to see a city that is incredibly diverse... an amazing array of cultures and heritages living together in harmony."

Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson

"The tournament and the festival are INSPIRING."

Canadian Broadcast Cooperation (CBC)

"Soccer tournament brings people together."

The Vancouver Courier

"Soccer Fundraiser builds bridges. Ethnic groups play together."

The Vancouver Sun

"On the soccer field, our differences melt away; there is no black and white, yellow or brown, Arab or Jew. We are footballers united by the power of the beautiful game."

Adri Hamael, Event Founder to the Jewish Independent News

"The soccer festival is setting a wonderful example for our Olympic and Paralympics host city, while working to improve the quality of life for kids at home and abroad."

Former Vancouver Mayor, Sam Sullivan