After 11 years of bringing you local reporting, the team behind the Vancouver Observer has moved on to Canada's National Observer. You can follow Vancouver culture reporting over there from now on. Thank you for all your support over the years!
OlympicRoundUP_600px.jpg

Canada's Olympic soccer bronze a triumph for BC

Photo from Canadian Olympic team  website 

The BC-based Canadian women's soccer team scored big at the London Olympics, edging out France 1-0 on a goal by Diana Matheson in injury time (92nd minute) to claim the bronze medal.

It's an important win for Canada since the team's heartbreaking 4-3 semifinal loss to the United States on Monday. Christine Sinclair, the team's star forward from Burnaby, BC, was one of the players who criticized the referee after the controversial loss, saying she felt her team had been "cheated". Her remarks, as well as those of coach John Herdman, caused FIFA to say it would consider disciplining Canada's team, but authorities later decided not to suspend any players. 

The bronze medal will be a boost for Team Canada as it begins preparation for the upcoming 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup, which Canada is hosting.

BC Sport Minister Ida Chong commented:

"This medal means so much to all of Canada. I congratulate the Canadian women's soccer team for their incredible fortitude and perseverance. These passionate athletes have demonstrated the ability to train hard, stay focused and ultimately triumph. Well done!"

More in Olympic Round Up

London Olympics 2012 photos: Canadian athletes shine at the Games

At the London 2012 Olympics, Canadian athletes --many of them from British Columbia -- continue to make Canada proud. Canada's Olympic women rowing team took silver today. Victoria native Malcolm...

Top 10 strangest Olympic mascots

Olympic mascots are meant to represent the cultural heritage of the host city. It's to embody the virtues of the games, and to characterize the event. They are the spokespeople of the world's largest...

Canadian Paralympic Committee celebrates 100 days to London 2012 Olympics with Facebook contest

The Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) is launching a Facebook contest to take the "ultimate super fan" to the Olympic Games in London.
Speak up about this article on Facebook or Twitter. Do this by liking Vancouver Observer on Facebook or following us @Vanobserver on Twitter. We'd love to hear from you.