French Soccer Teams from St. Pierre Shine at N.L. Games

The Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games feature participants from 10 regions, with one region, in particular, adding an international flair to the event.

Hailing from the French territories of St. Pierre and Miquelon off Newfoundland’s southern coast, both boys and girls soccer teams joined the competition in Corner Brook.

The boys’ team commenced their matches losing 1-0 against Team Eastern on Thursday.

Soccer holds significant importance in St. Pierre, and players see the opportunity to compete in Newfoundland as a valuable experience that broadens their horizons.

Following their initial match, 15-year-old Arthur Champdoizeau expressed, “Going to Corner Brook for the N.L. Games is a great opportunity for us and my team as we don’t face much competition in St. Pierre.”

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Antony Cronsteadt, 14, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that the three minor soccer teams from St. Pierre and Miquelon coming together for the tournament is a novel experience due to limited playing options on the island.

Team manager Guillaume Grasset highlighted the importance of events like the N.L. Games in fostering player development, forming new friendships, and creating lasting memories beyond their island home.

“It’s truly a remarkable experience and opportunity for us,” Grasset remarked.

The closing ceremonies for the Games are scheduled for Saturday, offering a fitting conclusion to the sporting festivities.

For insights from the players and a glimpse of their performance, check out the video above.

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