In 2022, the Youth Warrior Council placed the “Warrior Legacy Tree” at Wesley Clover. Each year “leaves” are placed on the Tree with names of past/present WOSC individuals (player, coach, parent, volunteer) who have exemplified the WOSC Warrior Mantality through their contributions both on and off the field. This year there are 4 Leaf recipients: Gaven Gonsalves, Jacqueline Madogo, Sam Sgabellone and Nicolas Fleuriau-Chateau. Congratulations to these 4 worthy individuals.
Nomination Statements
Gavin Gonsalves: Gavin has been a dedicated and inspiring figure within the West Ottawa Soccer Club for over a decade, beginning his journey as a volunteer coach in 2012. Starting with his son Cameron’s U5 team, Gavin fostered a passion for the game and developed players’ skills season after season. He continued to coach Cameron’s teams through the years, including stints as an assistant coach for U10 team and head coach for U11 team as Cameron transitioned to competitive play. Alongside, Gavin also found time to coach his middle son Brennan’s teams and even had the chance to coach his youngest, Avery, further deepening his commitment to WOSC’s community.
In 2016, Gavin expanded his role with WOSC, stepping into an administrative position as an Age Group Convener. By 2017, he took on a pivotal leadership role, coordinating the boys U8-U12 program in the Richmond area, a role he holds to this day. Gavin’s impact doesn’t stop on the sidelines; he has been a valued player in WOSC’s adult league, embodying sportsmanship and setting an example on and off the field.
In his rare free time, Gavin can still be found at WOSC events, refereeing WeeWarriors games, distributing equipment for teams, and even washing pinnies to ensure smooth operations for everyone involved. His ongoing dedication has made him an invaluable part of the WOSC family and a role model to players and fellow coaches alike.
Jaqueline Madogo: Jacqueline was very clearly an outstanding overall athlete but she was also very coachable and most importantly a great person to be around. Jacqueline didn’t shy away from learning new positions while playing at the provincial level which showed her coaches and teammates that she was prepared to do whatever the team needed her to do to be successful.
Jacqueline continued to display her outstanding athleticism after high school where she initially joined the Guelph University Women’s soccer team. It wasn’t long before Jacqueline decided to take her talents to the track and field program at Guelph where she continued to excel as a sprinter. Fast forward to the summer of 2024, Jacqueline’s dedication, perseverance and commitment to excellence shone through when she qualified for the Paris Olympics Games.
WOSC is proud to have played a small part in Jacqueline’s journey to becoming not only a world-class athlete, but an outstanding human being.
Sam Sgabellone: For over three decades, Sam has been an indispensable force in the West Ottawa soccer community, playing a critical role in getting the club off the ground. His journey began in the mid-1980s as Treasurer of the Eastern Ontario District Soccer Association (EODSA), where he was instrumental in hiring the organization’s first paid registrar, Mrs. Pat Bell, and implementing formal audits to ensure transparency and growth.
From 1982 to 1996, Sam organized a summer men’s recreational league team, MerivaleDuron, fostering camaraderie among former Merivale High School teammates and teachers. His commitment to youth soccer became evident as he served as assistant coach for various Division 1 teams between 1998 and 2014, supporting his daughter and shaping the next generation of players.
As Treasurer of the Kanata City Soccer Club from 2001 to 2007, Sam further demonstrated his leadership by hiring the club’s first full-time Technical Director and Head Referee. His dedication to community soccer continued with his involvement in the 2010 transition team that successfully merged Kanata City Soccer Club and Goulbourn Soccer Club.
From 2010 to 2016, Sam returned to serve as Treasurer of the West Ottawa Soccer Club, where his efforts were pivotal in establishing and nurturing the club’s foundations. His unwavering commitment, strategic insights, and passion for the game have made him an invaluable asset to soccer in the region, ensuring that the club thrives and inspiring players and coaches alike. Without Sam, the West Ottawa Soccer Club’s journey would not have been possible.
Nicolas Fleuriau-Chateau: Nic’s journey through soccer is truly inspiring! Starting at West Ottawa in the U14 OPDL and making such an impact with the 2002 boys team, his achievements are remarkable. Winning the OPDL championship and the U17 top tier tournament at Disney showcase, which led to his discovery by St. John’s University, speaks volumes about his talent and dedication.
His time at St. John’s, overcoming challenges like injuries and competition for playing time, ultimately led to a standout fourth year where he finished second in NCAA scoring. Getting drafted by the Vancouver Whitecaps and setting a record for goals in a season with Whitecaps 2 is a testament to his hard work and skill. It’s fantastic that he’s now with the MLS first team!
Beyond his on-field success, Nic’s positivity and genuine nature shine through. His willingness to thank coaches and uplift his teammates highlights his character and humility. He’s not just a great player; he’s a great person, making a lasting impact on everyone around him.