Introducing the new VanU First Kicks Coordinator
VanU is pleased to announced our new First Kicks Coordinator, Emily Nantel! Hear from both Emily and VanU Assistant Technical Director Maurice Hayes below.
VanU First Kicks Coordinator Emily Nantel
"Born and raised in Vancouver, I started playing soccer at age 9 with Douglas Park (now Vancouver Athletic) before moving on to play for Kerrisdale and Dunbar (now Vancouver United). I started coaching during the summers as a high school student but it became a more serious focus after I returned to Vancouver having finished my degree at the University of Victoria. I completed my Canada Soccer C License in June 2024 and after a season with KLM FC joined Vancouver United in September 2024.
After a busy Fall/Winter season helping with First Kicks where it fit around my U12 Division 1 team's schedule I took on the First Kicks Coordinators role in April 2025. I look forward to continuing to develop the First Kicks program along with the staff coaches and parent volunteers to ensure the players are having fun and developing each week.
When I'm not coaching I enjoy attending Vancouver Rise games, completing jigsaw puzzles, and listening to country music."
VanU Assistant Technical Director Maurice Hayes
"We are thrilled to announce that Emily Nantel will be continuing with us in the role of First Kicks Coordinator at VanU!
Since joining us last year, Emily has quickly become a key member of our coaching staff. Her passion for working with First Kicks players, combined with her positive energy and strong attention to detail made a huge impact on our First Kicks Spring program. For those who have had the pleasure of seeing Emily in action, you already know how much she brings to the table and how much she will add to the program as First Kicks Coordinator.
Emily will play a lead role in both the delivery of our on-field programming and the behind-the-scenes administration that ensures the program runs smoothly and to a high standard."
Register for First Kicks
Come join Emily and the rest of our First Kicks staff for the Fall First Kicks and Winter First Kicks seasons.
Exact dates for all First Kicks locations will be finalized over the coming months. Now, however, you can look through all the other information you'll need to know on our website.
https://vancouverunitedfc.com/first-kicks-u4-u8
Register for any of our First Kicks locations using the link below:
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