Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
The British Columbia government joins a jubilant nation in celebrating today's bronze medal victory by the B.C.-based Canadian women's soccer team at the London Olympics, announced Ida Chong, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.
The Canadian women edged France 1-0 on a goal by Diana Matheson in injury time (92nd minute) to claim the bronze medal, Canada's first in a traditional summer team sport since the 1936 Berlin Games.
The victory comes after Canada's heartbreaking 4-3 semifinal loss to the United States on Monday - in one of the most heavily watched Olympic events in Canadian history. The bronze caps a highly successful Olympic tournament for Canada, which included an impressive quarterfinal decision over host Great Britain.
The Canadian women's national team trains in Vancouver. Today's result will be a significant boost for Team Canada as it begins preparation for the upcoming 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup, which Canada is hosting.
Quote:
Ida Chong, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -
"This medal means so much to all of Canada. I congratulate the Canadian women's soccer team for their incredible fortitude and perseverance. These passionate athletes have demonstrated the ability to train hard, stay focused and ultimately triumph. Well done!"
Quick Facts:
- For team roster and hometowns, see Canadian Sport Centre Pacific: http://www.cscpacific.ca/content/MediaCentre/Events/2012OlympicGames.asp
- The win marks Canada's first Summer Olympic medal in a traditional team sport since 1936.
- The last Olympic team medal for Canada was won by the men's basketball team.
- France beat Canada 4-0 during last year's World Cup, eliminating Canada from competition.
- Canada will host the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup.
- Vancouver is one of the host cities for the 2015 Games.
Learn More:
Canada Soccer: http://www.canadasoccer.com/
London 2012: http://www.london2012.com/football/
Contact:
Jeff Rud
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 953-3677
250 208-4028 (cell)
