In a groundbreaking move to revolutionize soccer development in the Okanagan, three prominent and long-established soccer clubs have announced their merger into one super club, now rebranded as Okanagan United. This strategic alliance is set to enhance player and coach development while enriching the overall soccer experience for everyone involved.

Kelowna United, Okanagan Mission Youth Soccer Association (OMYSA), and Thompson Okanagan Football Club (TOFC) — each renowned for their commitment to excellence in soccer training and player development — have united their resources, expertise, and technical prowess under the banner of Okanagan United. This new super club embodies the spirit of being "stronger together," creating an unparalleled platform for aspiring soccer talents to reach their full potential.

Okanagan United is committed to the development of all players, whether they are grassroots participants, select-level athletes, or high-performance players in our BCSPL (BC Soccer Premier League) teams. This inclusive approach ensures that every player, regardless of their level, receives the support and training needed to excel.

A key objective of the merger is to optimize the use of best-in-class facilities. By pooling their assets, Okanagan United will have access to dedicated training centers, providing players and coaches with an ideal environment to refine their skills and push the boundaries of their potential.

The merger also paves the way for expanded programming, offering a broader range of development opportunities. With a larger talent pool and more extensive technical resources, Okanagan United will offer specialized training programs tailored to individual needs and aspirations, accelerating player development and enhancing the joy of the game.

In addition, Okanagan United is committed to continuous improvement and the broadening of its programs. This includes the development of adult-level teams to provide opportunities for graduating and post-university players to continue their soccer journey and stay engaged in the sport.

This commitment to excellence extends beyond the pitch. Recognizing the crucial role of coaching development, the merger will establish a collaborative platform where coaches can learn from one another, share best practices, and innovate in training methods. This collaborative approach will not only benefit the coaches but will also positively impact players' overall experience and growth.

"We are thrilled to announce the merger of Kelowna United, OMYSA, and TOFC into Okanagan United," said Jon Basaraba, Chair of the newly formed club. "By combining our strengths under the Okanagan United banner, we are confident that we can elevate the soccer experience for our players and coaches. Our focus will be on maximizing development opportunities for all players, utilizing our facilities, and creating a supportive and enjoyable environment for everyone involved."

Okanagan United is set to officially launch on September 30, 2024. More information about future plans and programs will be shared soon.