This past weekend marked the commencement of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland, showcasing Canadian talent from Nova Scotia on an international platform.
One standout player is 18-year-old center back Bridget Mutipula. Her soccer career began at the age of eight with Halifax Dunbrack SC, followed by a stint with Whitecaps FC Girls Elite. She is eager to don the national jersey and represent her country.
“It feels incredible. I’ve put in a lot of effort and this is an opportunity I’ve anticipated for a long time,” she expressed.
The young athlete from Halifax recently graduated from Vancouver Rise Academy and is eligible to play in up to four matches in this year’s Northern Super League.
Cindy Tye is seen giving guidance to the Dalhousie Tigers team in 2021. (Dalhousie athletics)
Mutipula’s coach is Nova Scotian Cindy Tye, who has been a mentor since before they joined the national program, allowing Tye to witness Mutipula’s development closely.
“For a young athlete like her to seize the opportunities presented by the sport, especially coming from our province, I am extremely proud of her,” Tye noted.
Team Canada commenced their tournament on Saturday, securing a 1–1 tie against England. Their upcoming match will be against Brazil on Tuesday.
Reflecting on her youth in Truro, Tye mentioned that there were limited opportunities for young girls in soccer. She began playing at a provincial level around 14 years old and later attended Acadia University before shifting her focus to coaching. After guiding the Dalhousie Tigers, she was appointed head coach of the national U-20 team in 2021.
Tye emphasized the significance of the U-20 level for athletes as they transition to the next phase of their careers.
“I told [Mutipula] just the other day how proud we are of her, and to keep her focus within the lines and continue her current path; she is destined for greatness,” Tye remarked.
Both the coach and a player proudly represent Nova Scotia in the national team. (Canada Soccer)
For Mutipula, achieving this milestone is a realization of a dream inspired by her friends. After the World Cup concludes, she plans to pursue her collegiate education in criminology at Florida State University.
“I’ll be attending FSU and we will still be in season. So obviously I’ll return to that, but I’m also hoping to gain recognition from major clubs,” Mutipula said.
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