Vancouver FC’s T.J. Tahid shares how Maple Ridge shaped his soccer career, balancing pro life with his love for local lakes, trails, and community.
Hometown Roots Inspire Rising Soccer Star
When Vancouver FC midfielder T.J. Tahid steps onto the pitch, the Maple Ridge native carries more than just his team’s colours—he carries the pride of his community. Born in Coquitlam and raised in Maple Ridge from the age of eight, Tahid says the Lower Mainland city has been central to shaping both his game and his character.
Balancing Pro Soccer and Local Life
At just 17, Tahid is navigating a demanding professional schedule with Vancouver FC, including a busy Canadian Premier League season and an upcoming Canadian Championship semifinal on Sept. 18. Between training sessions in Langley and matches at Willoughby Stadium, he still makes time to return home, calling Maple Ridge “a place to recharge.”
Finding Calm in Nature
After long days on the field, Tahid often visits Alouette Lake, Whonnock Lake, or Cliff Falls for recovery and reflection. “Just getting outdoors helps me decompress,” he said. These natural escapes provide balance to the high intensity of professional soccer, giving him the grounding he needs before returning to competition.
A Community Growing with the Game
Tahid credits Maple Ridge with fostering his passion for soccer. Local clubs like Albion FC and rivalries with nearby teams gave him early exposure to competitive play. He’s witnessed the city’s investment in turf fields and youth programs, including the new BCSPL initiative, which he says is “helping soccer culture grow across the community.”
School, Friends, and Lifelong Connections
Though his high school, Maple Ridge Secondary, didn’t have a formal soccer program, Tahid recalls lively lunchtime matches that bonded students and nurtured lasting friendships. Today, many of those same friends, coaches, and families come out to cheer him on at Vancouver FC games—evidence of the strong ties between his personal journey and the city that raised him.
Looking Ahead While Honouring the Past
Tahid remains determined to progress in Canada’s soccer system, aiming to represent his community and country on the world stage. “I’ll always be representing Maple Ridge,” he said. “That connection makes me proud every time they announce where I’m from before a match.”
This article is original and written specifically for Surreyspeak.com
