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Patrice Gheisar has seen firsthand how quickly the landscape of Canadian soccer is changing.

Now serving as Director of Football Operations and Head Coach of the men’s first team at OPL club Scrosoppi FC, Gheisar joined Episode 2 of The Pathway to discuss the momentum surrounding the Canadian game ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup — and the growing number of PSLC alumni now finding themselves on the verge of the sport’s biggest stage.

Speaking on the new YouTube series from PSLC, Gheisar reflected on what it means for Canada to co-host the tournament and why this moment feels different from anything the country has experienced before.

“There’s such a buzz about this event,” he said. “It’s just such a historic time.”

Having previously worked with Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team players like Dayne St. Clair and Alistair Johnston during their developmental years at Vaughan Azzurri, Gheisar spoke about the importance of strong developmental environments and the opportunities now available within the Canadian soccer pathway.

“You have to have [PSLC],” Gheisar said, discussing the importance of Canada’s player development structure. “Otherwise, how else are these athletes going to get the opportunities they need to showcase their abilities?”

With the tournament now just weeks away, Gheisar believes the excitement surrounding the sport nationwide also reflects how much the domestic game has evolved behind the scenes over the last several years.

From players like Richie Laryea, Tajon Buchanan and Cyle Larin emerging through Ontario’s system to PSLC alumni now competing professionally both domestically and abroad, Gheisar sees tangible proof that the pathway structure across Canada is continuing to move in the right direction.

He also emphasized that player development rarely follows one perfect trajectory, pointing instead to the importance of continuing to create meaningful environments for players to grow and develop at different stages of their careers.

“I don’t think development and pathways are just a straight line. You just have to constantly provide these young players an opportunity and they’ll blossom at different times when they’re ready.”

That philosophy continues to shape his work at Scrosoppi FC.

Alongside leading the club’s men’s first team, Gheisar discussed the importance of building strong foundations throughout the organization — from youth development to continued growth within the women’s game.

And increasingly, he believes the talent already exists across the country.

“Every game we play, there’s someone that I’m like, ‘Wow, great ability.’ That’s why we need more professional teams. We need more growth because there are so many players.”

For Gheisar, the growth of the game in Canada is no longer something theoretical. It is already happening, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup feels like another major step forward for the sport nationwide.

As the countdown to kickoff continues, Gheisar sees this moment as more than just a celebration of the present.

For him, it is proof that the Canadian soccer pathway is taking shape.