NEWS RELEASE
SIMCOE COUNTY ROVERS FC
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With the 2024 League1 season quickly approaching, the Simcoe County Rovers ownership group has been working hard behind the scenes to prepare for its men’s and women’s squads for what promises to be an exciting time for both the club and the city of Barrie.
Fresh off signing a new multi-year affiliation agreement with the Barrie Soccer Club, which positions the Simcoe County Rovers and the city of Barrie with one of the largest soccer footprints in League1 Ontario, the team is ready to compete for the championship.
The new affiliation agreement will see the club operate both a men’s and women’s League1 Premier division team and a total of four reserve teams playing in the U23 and U19 divisions beginning in 2024.
The men’s team has the honour of defending the League1 title and playing in the Canadian championships in April.
But every bit as exciting as the new affiliation agreement between the Rovers and Barrie Soccer Club are the new coaching additions to the management staff for the two squads that the Rovers will be unveiling in 2024.
The men’s side will be led by former Rovers assistant head coach Zico Mahrady, who takes over as head coach. Supporting him in this new role is Julian de Guzman, sporting director, and Donte Henry, who will serve as team manager and assistant men’s sporting director.
Joining coach Zico on the sidelines this upcoming season are the following coaches:
- Arta Mohasses — assistant coach
- Wais Zilli Aizizi — assistant coach
- Paul Smith — assistant coach and goalkeeper coach
- Kwabena Owsusu — equipment manager
“This highly qualified group of individuals will positively impact the club’s development moving into next season,” said president Julian de Guzman. “Our coaching staff has many years of experience in coaching and player management, and I have no doubt they will bring their passion, knowledge and love for the game forward to our players as we prepare for the Canadian championship and the 2024 League1 season.”
The women’s team will be led by head coach Dave Kelly, who is returning for his second season with the club, and Will Devellis, sporting director and L20/U20R head coach.
Joining coach Kelly on the sidelines this upcoming season are the following coaches:
- Zack Wilson — L10 assistant coach and associate women’s sporting director
- Mallory MacDonald — L10 and L20 assistant coach
- Gerry Pennant — goalkeeper coach
- Sarah Donato — strength coach
“We’re excited by the new coaching additions to the team,” said Will Devellis, sporting director and L10 assistant coach and L20 head coach. “All four individuals bring immense character and the ability to build relationships with players. We want to keep pushing our group forward to reach new heights and I feel these individuals will help us do that. I’m excited for the 2024 season and look forward to seeing our team grow and develop.”
All eight individuals boast impressive credentials and certifications at the regional, provincial and international levels and will contribute greatly to the success of the men’s and women’s teams.
The Rovers have begun informal training to start the new year with formal training and exhibition games starting in February.
For more information on the Simcoe County Rovers FC, including schedule details, ticket purchase options and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.roversfc.ca.
Single and group tickets to the match can be purchased by visiting www.roversfc.ca.
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