Soccer Nationals
Fall 2023
Hosting a National championship is beyond exciting for any university, but for Cape Breton University, it was something of a Cinderella story. Especially for head coach and CBU Alumni Deano Morley ‘06.
After a devasting loss in the AUS (Atlantic University Sports) champions earlier in November, CBU still had a place in the USPORTS Men’s Soccer National Championship as host of the event.
With a championship on the line, on our home-turf, it was the perfect time to host a soccer reunion. From November 9-12, Cape Breton University hosted more than 75 men’s soccer alumni from 8 countries around the world for a first ever CBU Soccer Alumni reunion. The men had all played for CBU, or one of its predecessor institutes, between the 1970s and last year.
CBU hosted this group for social activities throughout the week, including a reception to announce the 2017 men’s soccer team as an upcoming Capers Hall of Fame induction, taking place in 2024. CBU’s first ever soccer coach, Jack Porter who attended the reunion, was also announced as a soon-to-be inductee.
Every soccer alumni who attended received a custom CBU sweater donning the Caper logo and the Protocase USPORTS Men’s Soccer National Championship brand to wear proudly to the games.
Our alumni, came in from all corners of the globe, injecting an electric vibe to the sidelines with thunderous chants, unwavering support, and a wealth of soccer wisdom. “I fondly remember my time playing soccer on this campus,” exclaimed Andrew Rae ‘88, who hopped across the pond from England to join the celebration. “So much has changed, for the better, but the passion is just as remarkable. It was great to see former teammates and to be a part of the reunion as soccer Alumni to cheer them on, and interact with the team. The athletics program at CBU is of a very high standard and professionally run, and it shows in the results."
Amidst the nostalgia and social events, more than 85 guests joined us for a breakfast with the team and families the morning after their first win and before the second game. The interaction between the alumni, some of whom have their own national championship under their belts, was nothing short of inspiring. Wisdom flowed, energizing the team for the battles ahead.
The CBU Capers didn't just win – they conquered, dominated, and clinched the national champion title right here at home, showcasing to the world what they were truly made of. In a post-game celebration at the Pit Lounge on campus, Coach Morley took the stage and reminded all in attendance what this really meant, “I’ve believed for years in what this university does for the community, what this program does in the community, I believe in what sport does in the community. This, right now, is not a gold medal for Cape Breton University; this, right here, is a gold for Cape Breton Island.” Please join us in congratulating the 2023 USPORTS Men’s Soccer National Champions, the CBU Capers!
