Abbi added that his success is a reflection of both his personal effort and the club’s strong de- velopmental program: “Max’s suc- cess reflects his dedication and the coaching culture we’ve built. Our goalkeeper program, led by Mark Haynes, who was recently hired by Halifax Tides FC of the new women’s professional league, is among the best in the country. We’re fortunate to have coaches who bring out the best in our
For Max, this opportunity represents the next step in what has already been a remarkable young career. And behind his growth stands his longtime goalie coach, Mark Haynes, owner of London Elite Goalkeeping and partner coach for Whitecaps London. “I think this is an exciting opportunity for Max to showcase his skillset and abilities on a new stage,” says Mark. “Anytime you get to compete in tournaments and travel, it’s an excellent chance for growth and learning. Most importantly, I hope he takes it all in, both on and off the field.” Mark has trained Max for several years and watched his development with pride. “Max is a great young goalkeeper, full of energy, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn,” he says. “He’s dedicated to his craft, and this tournament will be an exciting stage for him to show what he can do.” The goalkeeper position, Mark explains, is a demanding one. “It’s very intricate, both physically and mentally. You have to show bravery, composure, and resilience. Over the years,” he adds, “Max has developed excellent positional awareness, shot-stopping ability, and distribution. He’s come a long way from not knowing how to stop a ball from rolling under his legs, to saving top-corner and penalty shots.” Max credits Mark for much of that progress. “He helped me a lot,” he says, simply. “Now I can save a lot of shots I couldn’t before.” Whitecaps London President, Abbi Lezizidis, says the club couldn’t be prouder of Max’s achievement: “We’re absolutely thrilled for Max and proud to see him earn this kind of opportunity. While this invitation wasn’t initiated by the club, we fully support Max and his family in pursuing experiences that help him grow and chase his dreams.”
players, both on and off the pitch.” Abbi also spoke about the broader importance of youth soccer. “It’s about more than just the game,” he says. “It teaches teamwork, discipline, and the drive to be your best. Those lessons extend far beyond the pitch. At Whitecaps London and Railway City FC, we’re proud to provide a pathway that helps players grow at every stage, not just to win trophies, but to build the confidence and habits that help them succeed in life.” For Max, though, the focus right now is simple -- enjoy every moment. “I’m really excited,” he says about heading to Florida. “Maybe a little nervous,” he admits, grinning, “But mostly just excited.” From Timbit soccer to representing Canada, Max Harris is living proof of how far passion, hard work and a good save can take you. And while most kids his age are dreaming of snow days, Max is dreaming of clean sheets under the Florida sun.
50% Leased
16 COMPASS TRAIL | PORT STANLEY, ONTARIO 16 COMPASS TRAIL | PORT STANLEY, ONTARIO
1 + 2 BEDS LUXURY LAKESIDE RENTAL LIVING 1 + 2 BEDS LUXURY LAKESIDE RENTAL LIVING
LAKE VIEWS ROOFTOP PATIO LUXURY FINISHES AMENITIES
LAKE VIEWS ROOFTOP PATIO LUXURY FINISHES AMENITIES
MODELS OPEN NOW
Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025 • Page 11 www . domusdev . com | call or text 519.870.1335 | mmescia @ domusdev . com MOVE IN NOW www . domusdev . com | call or text 519.870.1335 | mmescia @ domusdev . com MOVE IN NOW
Get involved! Like us on Facebook!
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs