Survival brings home soccer gold

The Kahnawake Survival School (KSS) girls’ soccer team have won their second Greater Montreal Athletics Association (GMAA) Juvenile title in three years, as they defeated Westmount school The Study 2-0.

Pierre Tobjian, coach and physical educator at KSS, said that both teams played strong defensively, although Kahnawake held control of the ball for most of the game.

“The Study had a strong defence and were able to break up many of our attacking plays. Our defence was tested multiple times and responded effectively, consistently stepping up to the challenge,” said Tobjian. “Ultimately, I believe our defense won us the game, consistently shutting down any advances from our opponents and keeping them from getting comfortable.”

Tobjian said that the team’s ability to adapt under pressure, as well as the players’ resilience and work throughout the season are what ultimately led to their perfect season – going 6-0 in the regular season and winning both playoff games.

“The team communicated well and maintained composure under pressure,” said Tobjian.

Ultimately, the pressure turned into joy when the game ended, sealing KSS’s victory.

“When the final whistle blew, the girls erupted with joy, celebrating their hard work. It was a moment of pure relief and happiness, and seeing their excitement made all the effort worth it,” said Tobjian, who added that victory tasted particularly sweet after previously losing the Futsal championships last year.

“It feels so good to win the GMAA finals, and I’m so proud that we have been able to give KSS not one, but two banners,” said Paxton Phillips, one of the three coaches on staff along with Tobjian and Amber Cook. “The girls were incredibly excited and proud of themselves, and they earned it.”

Both of Kahnawake’s goals were scored by Malia Regis – one in each half.

The first came from outside the box, hitting the mark by going over the goaltender’s hands into the middle of the net.

“It was gorgeous,” said Phillips.

The second goal was the result of a converted breakaway chance. Both goals were assisted on by Malia’s twin Maylan, who was named the game’s most valuable player.

“It was a toss-up between Maylan and Malia for MVP, but we ended up giving it to Maylan because she played her absolute best game of the season and saved us so many times when the ball ended up in our zone,” said Phillips.

“She ran it up the field and used her space when she had the time to, made super solid and smart passes, and was the reason the ball made it up the field for both of our goals.”

Both coaches saw growth throughout the season from their players – they did not just win, they also improved themselves, together.

“I was able to see how much each individual player’s skills have improved since we were able to get a more consistent soccer program going at the school, and it makes me so proud and impressed in the effort and passion these girls are putting into the sport because I feel the same way about it,” said Phillips, who hopes to be back next year to coach outdoor soccer.

“The importance of teamwork was evident, as the girls consistently supported each other both on and off the field,” said Tobjian, who will be back next year.

“Overall, this season reinforced the idea that success comes from hard work, dedication, and a strong sense of community within the team.

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