Team Canada Brings Heart, Gold, and Grit to Canada Cup in Surrey
Team Canada has landed in South Surrey with gold medals, big dreams, and even bigger determination. After their thrilling Pan-American Championship win in Colombia, the squad jumped straight into action at the Canada Cup, which is now in its 30th year. The international softball showdown runs until July 13, featuring more than 1,500 elite athletes from across the globe.
For Team Canada’s B.C.-based players, it’s a whirlwind return. They touched down just a day before their first two games but were already game-ready by Tuesday morning. The hometown advantage is clear—cheers, maple leafs, and familiar faces greet them at every turn.
More Than Just a Game
Head coach Kayleigh Rafter, a veteran catcher herself, emphasized that beyond winning, the focus is on playing great softball and honoring their standards. But what truly moved the crowd and media was her heartfelt shoutout to teammate Larissa Franklin, who recently completed treatment for lymphoma. Diagnosed in January and declared in remission just before training camp, Franklin’s return inspired teammates and fans alike.
Rafter praised her strength and resolve, noting how Franklin trained throughout chemotherapy. “She crushed it,” Rafter said emotionally. “I’m super proud of her and what she’s been able to do.”
A Comeback Fueled by Team Spirit
Franklin, now back in the game, is taking nothing for granted. Her focus? Getting better with each play, each day. She called playing in Canada “refreshing” and described the energy of Canadian fans as deeply motivating.
Teammate Kianna Jones, a Surrey local and national team member for four seasons, echoed this spirit. She described their shared purpose as powerful, saying, “We’re playing for each other, and for something greater—with Larissa’s story at the center.”
The Games to Watch
Team Canada kicks off with back-to-back games Tuesday evening—against New Zealand at 6 p.m. and Ukraine at 8:30 p.m. They’ll face Team BC and Czechia on Wednesday before wrapping up pool play Thursday against SoCal Sting at 6 p.m.
Fans can catch all the action and grab tickets or updates at canadacup.com.
Stay tuned to Surrey Speak for more stories from the diamond, exclusive interviews, and all the hometown pride you can cheer for.
