Three B.C. doctors have a new appointment on their schedules: representing Canada at the World Medical Soccer Championships this July.
The championships will be hosted on the Sunshine Coast of Australia — and two of the Canadian team members will be travelling from the Sunshine Coast of B.C. to compete. Both Dr. Ted Krickan and Dr. Paul Dhillon work as family physicians in Sechelt. Dr. Randy Hewgill is an anesthetist at Lion’s Gate Hospital.
The physicians made the cut to join the Canadian Medical Football Team during the Feb. 9 to 10 selection weekend in California, which also saw players chosen for the US Medical Soccer Team. The event was also the first time Canada’s Women’s Medical Soccer Team participated in an international event.
“I had a great weekend connecting with colleagues, enjoying the California sunshine, and learning with our hosts from the USA,” Krickan said in a press release. “Now our sights are set on the next tournament in Australia this summer.”
The annual World Medical Soccer Championships will include “six grueling matches in seven days,” a press release states. Twenty-four nations will be competing. At the same time, an associated sports medical conference will help advance participants’ knowledge in sports medicine, creating a fun atmosphere for doctors to gain professional development, connect with international colleagues and celebrate their passion for the game.
"It was amazing to be part of a team representing Canada with physician colleagues from across the country for an unforgettable soccer experience. Hard fought games against our rivals [the] United States of America were collegial and also forged friendships across both sides,” Hewgill said. “Regardless of the outcome, it was an experience to remember long after the final whistle."
Following Australia’s turn at hosting, Ireland and Canada will host the championship. The 2026 championship will take place after the FIFA World Cup matches in Vancouver.
