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Right now, someone far less qualified than you is living your dreams. All because they didn't just talk about it. They took action."
Brad Sugars
About Jackson Gardner
Youth
University
University
The journey of my soccer career started in Chilliwack, BC, Canada. Initially playing different positions, my focus shifted to goalkeeping at age nine. I began in local tier 2 teams, progressing through Chilliwack FC and Fraser Valley FC, and finally settled at Surrey United SC for the last four years of my youth career.
University
University
University
After concluding my youth soccer career, I pursued a soccer scholarship for university. This involved attending many camps and campus tours across Canada and the US, alongside sending numerous emails to coaches. In July 2017, I successfully earned a scholarship to Thompson Rivers University, where I spent the next five years developing my soccer career.
University (cont.)
University (cont.)
University (cont.)
I began my university soccer career at 17, securing the starting goalkeeper position in my first season. Over my five years at Thompson Rivers University, I broke every goalkeeping record and served as team captain. In 2022, I concluded my university journey with a historic achievement: winning TRU's first Usports National Championship.
I began my university soccer career at 17, securing the starting goalkeeper position in my first season. Over my five years at Thompson Rivers University, I broke every goalkeeping record and served as team captain. In 2022, I concluded my university journey with a historic achievement: winning TRU's first Usports National Championship. This triumph included saving five penalty shots, earning Goalkeeper of the Tournament, and being named Kamloops Sports Council University Athlete of the Year.
Professional
University (cont.)
University (cont.)
As my university soccer career neared its end, I proactively planned for the future and secured my first professional contract in Australia with Glenorchy Knights FC in the NPL Tasmania. Following a successful season where I won the NPL Tasmania Golden Glove, Goalkeeper of the Season, and Glenorchy Knights Player of the Season awards, my
As my university soccer career neared its end, I proactively planned for the future and secured my first professional contract in Australia with Glenorchy Knights FC in the NPL Tasmania. Following a successful season where I won the NPL Tasmania Golden Glove, Goalkeeper of the Season, and Glenorchy Knights Player of the Season awards, my performance garnered interest from multiple overseas clubs.
Since then, I've continued my professional journey with MetroStars SC in the NPL South Australia, Mandurah City FC in Western Australia and now Bay Olympic FC in the New Zealand National League.
Why Coach Gardz?
I have over five years of coaching experience in various roles:
- Periodically coached at Vancouver Whitecaps Academy from 2019 to 2024.
- Served as the U13 Boys Academy Head Coach and Head of Academy Goalkeeping at Glenorchy Knights FC in 2023.
- Served as Goalkeeper Coach at Mandurah City FC Women's First Team
- I've also worked as a private goalkeeper coach since 2019.
My coaching journey has evolved alongside my playing career, which remains a significant passion for me.
Throughout my life, I've seen the challenges faced by many high-performance athletes, including eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. Personally, I've experienced many of them myself. Overcoming these struggles has taught me valuable coping mechanisms and a desire to support others facing similar issues.
My educational and professional background is rooted in marketing. Before embarking on my soccer career, I worked in sales and studied marketing at university. This experience ignited a passion for content creation and personal branding, which I've used to support athletes in their own journeys.
While specializing in goalkeeping from a tactical standpoint, the services I offer extend beyond just goalkeepers to benefit athletes in all positions.
Why Overseas?
In 2023, while playing soccer in Australia, I conceived the idea for a pathway that amazed me with its potential but seemed largely unknown. Many aspiring players give up on their dreams because they haven't received opportunities in their home countries and are unfamiliar with overseas markets and requirements.
Our mantra, 'Create Your Opportunity,' reflects my career built on proactive outreach and taking risks despite receiving numerous rejections. Each 'yes' has brought me closer to my goals, introducing me to remarkable people and unforgettable experiences. I've learned from my mistakes and aim to use them as teaching moments to help others pursue their aspirations. The overseas pathway, with its unique challenges and rewards, is one I encourage many to consider for their journey.
Why University?
Reflecting on the university recruitment period, I recall it as an incredibly stressful time filled with uncertainty: Will I receive offers? Am I good enough? What if I'm not wanted?
Looking back now, after a successful five-year university career, winning a national championship, and setting numerous school records, I wish I could reassure my sixteen-year-old self that everything would indeed work out in the end.
Despite making mistakes along the way and having plenty of hindsight, I now see the value in sharing my experiences to educate others. I aim to help optimize their journeys, making the recruitment process as smooth and enjoyable as possible.