Ebony Clarke is following the path of her older brother and a sister.
The U14 soccer standout from Richmond is one of 13 part-time players invited to participate in the Vancouver Whitecaps Girls Elite expanded program for the 2014-15 season.
In addition to a 16-player U18 roster, the Whitecaps now have prospects ranging from U14 to U16 participating. They have been identified by BC Soccer and Whitecaps FC for the full-time program. The prospects train two to four times weekly with Whitecaps FC, while also training a minimum of once per week with their B.C. Premier Soccer League club and competing in BCPSL match play. Clarke, a midfielder, suits up for Surrey United.
“This is a very exciting announcement for our Girls Elite program,” said Jesse Symons, Whitecaps FC Girls Elite head coach. “This evolution will both better integrate our program with the BC Soccer Premier League, as well as take steps to fall in line with the Canadian Soccer Association’s national curriculum. The club continues to make great commitment and investment in female programming.”
Clarke’s brother Caleb was among the initial players signed when the Whitecaps launched their boys residency program and now is under contract with the Major Soccer League club. He played on loan with German Bundesliga club FC Augsburg II this past season.
Ebony’s sister Summer Clarke also spent time with Whitecaps Girls Elite before accepting a full-ride scholarship to attend Louisiana State University where she is currently in her sophomore year. Clarke was a pre-season All-American selection after leading the Tigers in scoring with 10 goals in 2013.
Ebony is part of a strong Richmond contingent playing for Surrey United’s U14 BCPSL club. She is joined by Jalen Donaldson, Jacqueline Tyrer and Emilie Sherritt.
