Maple Ridge RCMP wraps up successful youth soccer tournament

June 17, 2026 - Maple Ridge, British Columbia
From: Maple Ridge RCMP

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On Wednesday, June 17, 2026, the Maple Ridge RCMP completed the final match of their youth soccer tournament that involved dozens of police officers and hundreds of local high school students participating and getting into the soccer spirit.

Over the past several weeks, Maple Ridge RCMP officers, and occasionally emergency service partners, competed in soccer matches against students at all five secondary schools in Maple Ridge. The competition was high and the scores mostly in favour of the students, but in the end the ultimate goal was achieved:  Building trust between local youth and law enforcement and promoting pro-social behaviour and safe recreational activities. 

The “United Youth Soccer Classic” tournament was the brainchild of the Maple Ridge RCMP’s Family and Youth Resource Team (FYRST) and coincided with the start of the largest international soccer tournament occurring in our country’s own backyard. Ridge FYRST works to build resiliency in youth by making connections to their school, family, local resources, and each other.   

In the tournament finale, Team RCMP edged out Westview Secondary School students in a thrilling penalty shoot out victory.

“This was a great engagement opportunity that allowed our officers to literally be on the same playing field as youth in our community and make connections that we otherwise wouldn’t have been able to,” says Maple Ridge RCMP Inspector Martin Guay. “It was all about inspiring unity and community pride amongst our local youth and creating that safe, positive, high-energy environment on school grounds for everyone to be a part of.”

The reaction from students and school staff was very positive as evident by the large turnouts that came out to participate and view the matches at each school. In total, over a hundred different students participated in the soccer tournament and hundreds more gathered as spectators cheering their schools on and engaging with officers and community partners at each match.

“This was a fun and memorable way to wrap up the school year and a fantastic event,” says Cathryn Blanco, Westview Secondary School Principal. “Everyone involved enjoyed a great afternoon of friendly competition, connection, and community spirit. When students, first responders, and community members come together in this way, it helps strengthen the connections that contribute to safe, healthy, and thriving communities.”

The final game was also attended by city and school officials as well as community and business partners.  

“Events like this are important because they help build real connections,” says City of Maple Ridge Mayor Dan Ruimy. “They give our students a chance to get to know the officers in our community in a positive way, and they show what can happen when schools, police, and the community all work together. 

The Maple Ridge RCMP appreciates the opportunity to connect with students and staff at each school and thanks them for their hospitality. We also appreciate the support of the Maple Ridge Fire & Rescue Services for joining us in these matches and the support of our local community and business partners to make this tournament such a success.

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