Vancouver Rise FC has announced the departure of their first-ever sporting director, Steph Labbé. The club, competing in the Northern Super League (NSL), revealed the decision as part of a strategic reorganization of resources for the upcoming year.
Interim president Aditi Bhatt stated that the removal of the sporting director position was a challenging but necessary step in their 2027 planning, leading to Labbé’s departure from the club. Labbé, in response, expressed gratitude for her time at Vancouver Rise FC on social media, acknowledging the new direction the club is taking.
Labbé played a pivotal role in the Rise’s success, notably helping the team clinch the inaugural NSL championship title last season. Currently, the team is contending for a playoff spot in the league with a record of 8 wins, 11 losses, and 4 draws.
As a former goalkeeper, Labbé achieved Olympic glory at Tokyo 2020 by securing Canada’s first Olympic soccer title with crucial penalty saves in the gold medal match against Sweden. Her illustrious career includes bronze medals at Rio 2016 and appearances in three World Cups.
Following her retirement from playing in 2022, Labbé transitioned to a managerial role, serving as the general manager of women’s soccer for the Vancouver Whitecaps before joining Vancouver Rise FC. This recent departure marks the second significant change for the club, with head coach Anja Heiner-Møller being replaced by assistant Iain Darbyshire last month.
Chief soccer officer Robyn Gayle will continue to oversee the club’s sporting department, ensuring continuity in leadership within the organization.