Pemberton Youth Soccer Association is dedicated to promoting sportsmanship and fellowship by offering youth in Pemberton a positive, fun and safe soccer environment at recreational and competitive levels.
MEET THE COACHES
Antoine Arcand
Head Coach for Pemberton Rapids U13 Boys
Antoine has been coaching with PYSA since 2023 and holds a Learn to Train certification through Soccer Canada. A lifelong player, his soccer journey began in 1986 in New Brunswick and includes highlights such as a 2nd place finish at the Jeux de l'Acadie, two provincial high school titles, the 1997 Canada Games, and two seasons with the UNB Reds. Known for his versatility, he played central midfield, defense, and right back.
Antoine's coaching style focuses on small-sided games and the philosophy: Train like you play and play like you train. He emphasizes teamwork, solid fundamentals, and most importantly - having fun.
Andrew Sakamoto
Coach
Andrew began coaching in 2024. He brings extensive sports experience, including seven years as a youth soccer player and a background in coaching and instructing other disciplines such as cross-country skiing. His coaching philosophy is rooted in the core values of enjoyment, teamwork, and respect, which he sees as essential for player development at this stage in life.
By using gameplay to create meaningful teaching moments, Andrew aims to cultivate a positive and engaging environment where players are motivated and look forward to each opportunity to play.
Mackenzie Gray
Academy Coach
Mackenzie is a passionate and dedicated soccer coach who joined PYSA in June 2025. Originally from Ladner, BC, she brings several years of experience assisting Metro-level girls teams with Surrey United and Delta Coastal Selects. A lifelong player herself, Makenzie began her soccer journey at age 3 and went on to play BC Soccer Premium League with Coastal Football Club and Langara College. She now plays Selects A with Vancouver Athletics Football Club.
Certified in Canada Soccer's Grassroots programs, Mackenzie enjoys working with kids individually to help them grow stronger and build awareness. She recognizes that every player is unique, and that together they can build strong bonds through the game. No matter who she’s coaching, she always has fun and focuses on making everyone feel their best.
Alyssa Cox
Summer Camp Coach
Alyssa is a Summer Coach with PYSA and holds a Small Sided Referee Certification. She has a strong playing background, having competed as a striker and midfielder for Capilano University, the Vancouver and Sea to Sky Whitecaps Academy, the European Football School, and North Shore Girls Soccer Club (NSGSC). Her coaching experience spans several organizations, including NSGSC, West Side Youth Soccer Association, and a role as Assistant Coach with the Sea to Sky Whitecaps Academy.
Alyssa’s coaching style focuses on game-based sessions that emphasize individual and team development, blending technical and tactical elements with injury prevention and strength-building. She encourages players to problem-solve through reflection and experimentation, viewing coaching as a way to not only help others grow but also to deepen her own understanding of the game.
BEHIND THE SCENES
Maddy Hepner
Community Engagement Coordinator
Many of you will recognize Maddy from her leadership in Children’s Programming at the Pemberton and District Community Centre. She brings a strong background in marketing, social media, grant writing, and organizational planning, paired with a positive, community-driven mindset.
James LinkLater
Administrator
Bio to come.