Stolen Funds, Stolen Dreams - Help Our Team Rebuild

Edmonton Youth Soccer Team Devastated After Coach Steals Nearly $50,000—Community Rallies to Save Their Dream

What was supposed to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a dedicated group of 9- and 10-year-old soccer players has turned into a heartbreaking nightmare. After two and a half years of relentless fundraising—bottle drives, selling World’s Finest Chocolates, hosting pub nights—these kids finally raised over $60,000 to compete in the prestigious Mayor’s Cup in Las Vegas. But just days before departure, their families discovered a devastating betrayal: their trusted head coach had stolen nearly $50,000 from the team’s account, crushing their dreams in an instant.

“The most heartbreaking part wasn’t just the money—it was seeing the look on these kids' faces when they found out,” said Adam Scorgie, whose son Beckham plays for the U11 Tier 1 team. “Beckham kept asking, ‘Why would our coach do this to us?’ No child should ever have to experience that level of betrayal.”

Police have been notified, and a full investigation is underway. Charges are expected to be laid in the coming weeks. The Edmonton Soccer League has also been informed, and parents are demanding a lifetime ban for this coach, ensuring he never has the chance to do this to another group of young athletes.

But even in the face of this devastation, the team refuses to give up. Parents, families and the community are rallying together to raise the stolen funds while the police track down the coach. Their goal? To still give these kids the chance to compete on the international stage. In an incredible show of support, the Mayor’s Cup tournament organizers have waived the team’s registration fee for next year, recognizing the injustice these kids have suffered.

This story is bigger than just one team—it’s a wake-up call for stronger oversight in youth sports to prevent financial fraud and ensure that the people entrusted with shaping young athletes are held accountable.

As of today, the team is still $50,000 short of its goal. Every dollar counts in helping these kids reclaim the opportunity they worked so hard for.

We ask media outlets, community members, and sports organizations to help spread the word. Let’s rally around these kids and show them that their hard work and dreams still matter.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Lauren Scorgie – [phone redacted]

Adam Scorgie – [phone redacted]