It was a weekend to remember for Kamloops United FC, filled with emotion, debuts, goodbyes, and history. Hillside Stadium played host to the second leg of the Reid Davidson Charity Shield, where the club’s men’s and women’s teams squared off against Nanaimo United FC in front of a supportive home crowd.
The day began with the women’s match, where KUFC battled hard but ultimately fell 2-1 to a strong Nanaimo side. Scarlet Thomas provided the lone goal for Kamloops, finishing a tidy chance to keep the match close until the final whistle. The game carried extra significance, as it marked the final appearance of the season for Norah Bell, who now departs to begin her NCAA Division 1 career at Arizona State University. Bell, a key player for the club and a fan favourite will look to continue her successful career down in the States.
It was also a day of new beginnings. Kat McCleary, a standout from Kamloops, made her League1 BC debut in goal, earning a start in her first-ever appearance with the club. Despite the loss, the women’s squad showed grit and promise, and the future continues to look bright with young talent emerging.
The energy carried into the men’s game, where Kamloops United FC delivered a statement performance, defeating Nanaimo 3-1 in the second leg to secure a win on aggregate and claim the Reid Davidson Charity Shield—the first trophy in the club’s League1 BC history.
Lachlan Will led the way with a clinical two-goal performance, while Daniel Sagno added the third with a composed finish to put the match out of reach. The victory was the result of a full-team effort, building off a strong first-leg showing on the road in Nanaimo and finishing the job in front of their home crowd.
The Reid Davidson Charity Shield, now in its second year, is more than just silverware. Named in honour of Reid Davidson, a Kamloops youth soccer product who went on to play for VIU and later work with Nanaimo United, the trophy represents the spirit of community and the connection between the two clubs. This year’s matchday sponsor, Excel Industries—Reid’s families business—added a heartfelt touch to the occasion, and Reid’s family was in attendance to present the shield to KUFC’s men’s team after the final whistle.