Ask a random GGSL'er about soccer, and you're bound to find a fascinating story about their love for the sport! Today we feature one of the most accomplished GGSL athletes, Preston Corporal. Preston is a key part of the Olympique de Marseille squad that just claimed the 2025 Spring League Cup in the OT Division.
In a heartfelt podcast episode (transcript reproduced below), host (and GGSL Manager) Pascal Khawam sits down with Preston, a former FIFA World Cup Qualifier football player, and the founder and owner of Optimal Performance Training https://optimalperformancetraining.ca . Together they explore his incredible journey from humble beginnings to global recognition in the world of football. The conversation dives deep into the essence of what it takes to be an athlete—beyond the stats and headlines—highlighting Preston's evolution as both a player and a person. It's a story all GGSL'ers can learn from and appreciate!
A Humble Beginning
Preston Corporal's story begins in the heart of his childhood neighborhood, where his love for football started on rough patches of grass between houses. Like many kids, he didn't have access to expensive equipment. Instead, he and his friends improvised, using old pieces of cloth or even grapefruits as makeshift soccer balls. Despite the lack of proper gear, the joy of playing with friends was enough to ignite his passion. Every evening after school, they would kick around these homemade balls until the sun went down, learning the fundamentals of football not just through competition but through camaraderie.
It was during these informal games that Preston started noticing his natural talent. His powerful kicks set him apart, making him realize that he could potentially go beyond the neighborhood field and into the professional world of football. This marked the beginning of his journey toward greatness.
The Rise of a Footballer
As Preston's skillset grew, so did his competitive drive. His neighborhood games became more structured, with teams formed based on ability. The competition among his peers pushed everyone to improve, and this environment played a key role in shaping Preston’s future as a professional footballer. His commitment to honing his craft was clear—every game, every kick, every practice session brought him closer to his dreams.
As he matured and became more serious about football, Preston started to gain attention. The love for the sport that started in the streets of his neighborhood translated into a relentless pursuit of excellence on the field. His training was no longer just about having fun; it became a foundation for a career that would soon take him to international stages.
The Breakthrough Moments
One of the most pivotal moments in Preston's journey came when he played for Watanga FC, a club with political connections in his home country. It was there that he found himself standing next to the president of Liberia during a key match, an experience that made him realize how much his football career represented hope for many back home. This moment marked a significant point in his career—a realization that the sport he loved could mean so much to others, transcending personal achievement to become a symbol of national pride.
Another life-changing experience came when Preston debuted for the national team in a World Cup qualifier against Algeria. The energy of the stadium, the deafening cheers from thousands of fans, and the weight of national representation all combined to create a surreal moment. It was no longer just about playing a game—Preston understood the impact he could have on his country and the millions of fans watching him. Football became a platform for unity, hope, and pride.
Resilience and Self-Belief
Throughout his journey, Preston faced numerous challenges, both on and off the field. Yet, these obstacles became opportunities for growth. One of the key lessons Preston learned was the importance of resilience. No matter the setbacks, he had to trust in himself and his abilities. He emphasizes that self-belief is crucial, especially when faced with unfamiliar and difficult situations. Doubts may creep in, but it’s this inner strength that separates great athletes from the rest.
Preston’s experiences taught him that perseverance, hard work, and mental fortitude are as important as technical skills. His ability to overcome adversity and maintain focus on his goals became a cornerstone of his success.
The Bigger Picture
As the conversation draws to a close, Preston reflects on the deeper significance of sports. His journey is not just about the titles, the matches, or the accolades. It’s about the connections forged through football—friendships, unity, and a shared sense of purpose. Sports have the power to push boundaries, foster lasting memories, and create bonds that transcend borders. For Preston, football is more than just a game; it’s a way of life that brings people together.
The episode serves as a powerful reminder that greatness doesn’t come from stats alone. It’s about the journey, the struggles, and the people who help you along the way. Preston’s story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to rise above challenges and achieve something truly extraordinary, both individually and collectively.
A message to any athlete
Preston Corporal’s journey from playing with makeshift balls in his neighborhood to standing on the world stage at the World Cup is a story of perseverance, passion, and dedication. It’s a reminder to all aspiring athletes that greatness begins with a single step—and often, that step starts in the most humble of places. Through his resilience and self-belief, Preston not only achieved success on the field but also became a symbol of hope and pride for his country and fans around the world. His message to young athletes everywhere: believe in yourself, keep pushing, and remember that anything is possible if you stay true to your roots.
...time to celebrate another successful GGSL season!
Join in on the fun at Smoky's (902 Shefford Rd) on Friday, April 25th for the GGSL end of season get-together. Whether you claimed the Cup, or soldiered on as a cellar dweller, come and reminisce about the season that was (and those to come!). Indulge in plenty of GGSL supplied free pizza, as we congratulate our Spring champs and close out another fun season.
Ongoing player civility and good behaviour needed in GGSL, say league officials.
1) Everyone wants to win, but it shouldn’t be at all costs. We are seen as a friendly league that encourages respect as well as honest and fair behaviour. Unlike in other competitive leagues where such plays can be common, the GGSL requires that players refrain from going into risky challenges, committing deliberate fouls, talking to opponents disrespectfully, etc.
2) The main objective of the league is to allow people to play together and enjoy the sport they love on a Friday night. Perception is important, and minor plays such as being honest when we know the ball was out, not purposely blocking opponents on a free kick, apologizing after a foul can go a long way in reinforcing the spirit of the league.
3) Everyone makes mistakes; teammates, opponents, referees and ourselves. There are many ways to disagree on many things. It can be easy to get upset and let the emotion of a game get to us, but our behaviour has a big influence on others’, hence the importance of efficiently managing our attitude and reactions.
Kind regards, Patrick, Donald, Justin and J.J. (your GGSL officials)
They approached the dome quietly, many with balaclavas pulled down to conceal their faces. Arriving at the turnstile they glanced around nervously before darting inside. They hoped that by hiding their identities they could avoid society's scorn, for they had made the bold choice: SOCCER OVER LOVE!
But once inside the dome these footballers were both delighted and relieved by what they saw. Seventy women playing their regular league games, oblivious to the fact it was the most sacred day on the relationship calendar! Immediately all the feelings of guilt washed away. If the girls could play soccer on this day, so to could the boys. Game on for the 2025 Valentine's Day Friendly!
The OT division suited up on their regular field, with the more numerous Masters players taking 2/3rd of the dome. The Masters game was a tight one that played out over 2 hours. Whether it was the ineptitude of the strikers, or the skill of Keepers Bill Coleman and Sean Crowell, the low scoring affair ended 3-3.
The Man of the Match was undoubtedly GGSL legend Keith Corkum, who for this day at least turned back the clock. He made numerous well timed tackles to keep "White" at bay. On the rare occasions an attacker eluded him, he got on his horse and continued to doggedly badger them until they generally gave up the ball or made a bad pass.
Wishing everyone a happy Valentine's Day!
The Spring season features a balance schedule of 10 competition Matchdays (2 against each divisional opponent) and one Friendly.
It was quite a ride during 3 weeks of intense competition for the 2025 GGSL Shields!
In the Masters 2 division Mondoux's Marauders climbed all the way up from 4th in the regular season to claim the coveted Shield. After losing in the initial round 1-0, some luck shined on Sean Crowell's squad when they were selected as "lucky loser" for round 2. From there the boys did it the hard way. They first knocked off League Cup winners Dragons Fire, and then reversed their 1st round loss against Thee Olde Boys in the final to win 3-1. A pivotal moment occurred when a penalty was awarded to Thee Olde Boys while they trailed by a single goal. The prospect of beating a dialled-in Crowell in the Mondoux's Marauders' net required a near perfect shot - but it rattled off the post, paving the way for the Marauders' victory.
The Masters 1 Shield turned out to be the tightest match of the night. Panathinaikos looked to be sailing to victory when season champs Clockwork Orange stormed back with 2 late goals to tie the game 3-3. The penalty shootout beckoned and the Greeks were able to prevail 4-3, aided greatly by a penalty save by legendary GGSL keeper Brian Elliott, and another shot that found the bar.
In the OT division, Olympique de Marseille rebounded from a somewhat disappointing regular season to claim their first GGSL Shield. After dispatching first round opponent Bayern, the boys would face a much sterner test against the same Germans who, surprisingly, fought their way to the final after being selected as the divisional "lucky losers". "Give Bayern credit. They played pretty tough!" said a jubilant (and relieved) Manager Pascal Khawam after claimimg the Shield with a narrow 2-1 win.
The 2025 edition of the GGSL Shield continued to be unpredictable with ALL first round "lucky losers" shockingly advancing in their semi-final games!
In the OT Division Bayern squeaked by in the narrowest of fashions, nipping a game Boca Seniors squad 4-3 in penalties after the match was deadlocked 3-3. In Masters 1 play, Panathinaikos flipped the script on Ajax. After going down to defeat against the Dutch the previous week, the Greeks were able to reverse the score line and advance to the finals. The trifecta continued in Masters 2 play. Mondoux's Marauders knocked off season champs Dragons Fire in another tight game by a score of 2-1. (Of note, every Masters 2 competitive fixture in this year's Shield has been decided either by 1 goal or by penalties).
Finals indicated in red
Chills, spills, thrills...the chaos of the Shield tournament is on full display in this 2025 version!
Consider the nail-biting games of the Masters 2 division (2 games decided by 1 goal, and another by penalties). What of the OT Division with the shocking exits of Cup Champs Inter CWO & runners-up Chelsea Legends?! Only in Masters 1 was the regular season script followed, but not without some valiant efforts by the losing teams.
The semi-finals have now been determined following the drawing of our "lucky losers". Bayern (OT Division, Panathinaikos (Masters 1) and Mondoux's Marauders (Masters 2) all have new life in the tournament!
Below is the complete schedule for Jan 24th, including the friendlies. Enjoy the next set of games everyone!
In a division so close that any number of plays over the course of the season could have flipped the outcome, Dragons Fire held their nerve against strong challenges from Thee Olde Boys, Highlanders, and Mondoux's Marauders to claim the divisional crown. Congratulations to Manager David Lowe and the squad!
Manager Paolo Filipponi's squad proved to be the class of a tough Masters 1 Division. Congratulations to Clockwork Orange who claimed the division by 7 points over Ajax.
