ABOUT ANGELS SSC
Rich history, strong values.
The Angels Women’s Soccer Club has been a cornerstone of competitive women’s soccer in Edmonton and across Canada for more than four decades. Rising quickly to prominence, the Angels became one of the most dominant women’s teams in Western Canada. In 1982, the club captured its first Canadian National Championship in the inaugural women’s national competition—marking the beginning of a remarkable era.
What followed was a historic run of excellence: five consecutive Canadian National Championships, a record that remains unmatched by any Canadian soccer team, men’s or women’s. This unprecedented achievement solidified the Angels as one of the most successful programs in Canadian soccer history.
In recognition of their impact, the Angels were invited to take part in Edmonton’s 1987 ceremony proclaiming the city as “The City of Champions.” During the celebration, the Angels’ national championship trophy was displayed alongside the Grey Cup and Stanley Cup—symbolizing the club’s place among Edmonton’s most iconic sporting successes.
Over the years, the Angels Women’s Soccer Club has continued to build on its legacy. With eleven Canadian National Championships across eras, the Angels remain one of the country’s most decorated women’s soccer organizations. Most recently, the club’s Classics program added to this incredible history by winning back‑to‑back National Championships in 2023 and 2024, underscoring the continued strength and depth of the Angels at all competitive levels.
The club’s contributions to the sport have been recognized many times. In 2008, long‑time leader Stuart Brown was inducted into the EDSA Hall of Fame as a builder of soccer in Edmonton. The following year, the 1982 Angels team received its own induction, honouring their excellence and lasting influence on the game.
Today, the Angels Women’s Soccer Club remains committed to fostering high‑level competition, community, and the development of women’s soccer in Edmonton—proudly carrying forward a tradition built on passion, commitment, and championship success.
OUR PEOPLE
STUART BROWN
Meet Stuart and Linda, a dynamic duo who have not only celebrated an incredible FIFTY-TWO years of marriage but also embarked on a remarkable journey in the Canadian soccer scene since their arrival in 1975. Stuart, boasting a formidable 3rd-degree Black belt in Judo, served as the head coach for the NAIT Men’s team for an impressive 17 years. During his tenure, he clinched numerous ACAC Championships and was honored with the ACAC Coach of the Year title multiple times.
Stuart's coaching prowess extends beyond the collegiate level, as he has coached Team Alberta at the Western Canada Games for several years. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Stuart received the prestigious ASA Award of Merit in 2000. The couple's dedication to soccer is further exemplified by their active involvement in the growth of the sport. Stuart played a pivotal role in the expansion of the Scottish fields from one grass field to six, followed by the construction of a dome. In 2014, the club they cherish was rightfully inducted into the Canadian Soccer Hall of Fame as a distinguished institution with a rich history of excellence. Stuart's impact extends to the national level, with frequent requests for his insights on player selections for the Canadian Women’s National Team. Despite being approached to join the coaching staff, Stuart chose to stay with his local roots, a decision we, as a community, are truly fortunate for.
The Angels owe much of their success and facilities to the personal investments made by Stuart and Linda, showcasing their unwavering dedication to the club and everyone associated with it.
TONY COSTA
Enter Tony, a dedicated servant of both community and country, with 15 years of service in the Edmonton Police force and an additional 14 ½ years in the military. Tony's journey into soccer began in 2006 when his daughter's Timbits Soccer team needed a coach. What started as a volunteer role soon became a passion-fueled commitment as Tony continued coaching season after season, evolving from McLeod Steel Heights to Extreme FC and Strikers, guided by his daughter's soccer journey. Tony's coaching accolades reached new heights when he led the U13 Alberta summer games team to a silver medal, an impressive feat achieved in just four weeks of selecting a team from two tryouts.
After his daughter's U17 year, Tony's coaching expertise caught the attention of Lauren Croxford, who invited him to lead the Premier team for the 2017/2018 Indoor Season. Graciously accepting the challenge, Tony's passion for the game and coaching led him to pursue coaching courses and gain provincial recognition as he works towards obtaining National Certification.
Since the Indoor season of 2017, Tony has coached an impressive 245 Angel’s games, spanning across Premier and Major League categories. The stats speak volumes – with 149 wins, 29 ties, and 67 losses, Tony's coaching journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication and a promise of many more victories to come.
SARAH MATTIELLO
Meet Sarah Mattiello – a passionate leader, lifelong athlete, and dedicated advocate for sport and community. Sarah’s journey into coaching began long before she ever stepped onto the pitch as a mentor—it was forged through years of experience in varsity athletics, national sport coordination, and community-driven event planning. With a Master’s in Kinesiology specializing in Sport Management, Sarah has spent her career building programs that empower athletes and bring people together.
Her coaching path took shape through her work with recreational and competitive leagues, where she quickly became known for her ability to lead with heart, precision, and purpose. From organizing large-scale sporting events to collaborating with non-profits, Sarah’s impact has always extended beyond the scoreboard.
Recognized as an Academic All-Canadian for her achievements both in the boat and in the classroom, Sarah brings that same drive and discipline to the soccer field. Her strengths in public speaking, brand marketing, and improvisation have helped her build strong connections with players, families, and the broader community.
Now leading our Division 1 women’s team, Sarah continues to inspire through her commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and the belief that sport has the power to shape character and create lasting change. Her journey is just beginning—and the future looks bright.
JAY THOMSON
Introducing Jay — a passionate player and proud product of both Scottish and Canadian football culture.
Born in Aberdeen, Scotland, she grew up with a ball at her feet and began her football journey competing in tournaments across Scotland, England and Sweden before moving to Canada at age 12. Her love for the game continued to flourish as she played for several competitive teams before ultimately finding her home with the Angels.
A fierce and dedicated striker, Jay went on to represent Concordia University, playing a pivotal role in capturing the ACAC National Championship in 2009.
In recent years, Jay has discovered a new calling in coaching. While continuing to play with the +30 Women’s Angels team, she joined legendary coach Stuart Brown as Assistant Coach, helping lead the team to back-to-back Masters National Championships in 2023 and 2024.
Beyond the outdoor game, Jay has been instrumental in building the first-ever Angels Futsal team in 2023. In just two seasons, the team has already made its mark; finishing 2nd in its inaugural year and winning the Marigold Cup Championship the following season.
Jay holds her Canada Soccer C License and Futsal Diploma and is eagerly anticipating the release of the Canada Soccer Futsal Coaching Certificate. She also co-coached Team England to gold at the 2024 Heritage Cup.
A proud Liverpool supporter, Jay is known for her love of tactics, quick wit, and focus on bringing out the best in her players. She believes in coaching through connection and confidence, creating a space where everyone feels supported and valued both on and off the pitch.