A bold new step in Alberta’s elite women’s soccer development
CALGARY— Calgary Wild FC is launching the Wild FC Academy, a high-performance development program embedded within the club, kicking off in February 2026. The Academy will be led by newly appointed Academy Director, Kennedi Kiarash, whose impressive coaching and playing background will be invaluable to Alberta’s aspiring female soccer stars.
The Academy will serve as the cornerstone of the club’s elite player development pathway, providing Alberta’s top young athletes with a professional, supportive and accessible environment where they can maximize their potential.
“The launch of the Wild FC Academy is a huge step forward for our club and for women’s soccer in Alberta,” said Wild FC Head Coach, Lydia Bedford. “Creating a clear, accessible pathway for young players to develop in a high-performance environment is critical, and this academy allows us to support athletes as they progress toward the highest levels of the game.”
Designed in accordance with Canada Soccer, FIFA and the Northern Super League (NSL) standards, the Academy will offer a high-performance pathway for players aspiring to compete at the post-secondary, semi-professional, and professional levels.
The Academy will feature U18 and U23 Reserve programs that deliver professional coaching led by Kiarash, supported by affiliates from NCAA, USPORTS, and the National Youth Club Licence. Participants will benefit from integrated training environments alongside Calgary Wild FC’s First Team, as well as holistic player development approach addressing technical, tactical, physical, psychological, and academic growth. Importantly, there will be no cost to participants for programming or team kits, ensuring the program remains accessible to all. The Academy is designed as a supplemental training program, working in partnership with athletes’ home clubs to support long-term development and facilitate smooth transitions into higher levels of competition.
Kiarash comes to Calgary Wild FC from her role as Assistant Coach and Video Analyst with Halifax Tides FC. Her soccer journey began with the Erin Mills Eagles in Mississauga, Ontario, before earning a scholarship to Armstrong State University in Savannah, Georgia. As a coach, Kiarash has led multiple League1 Ontario championship teams and successful youth programs at North Mississauga Soccer Club and York University’s women’s varsity team. She held key roles in Canadian youth soccer development, including operational responsibilities with the Canadian Youth National teams at U17 and U20 levels. Her previous experience as Director of Female Developmental at Final 3rd Soccer provides her with the invaluable expertise in player development and tactical acumen necessary to the Academy.
“Kennedi brings an exceptional level of experience, detail, and passion for player development,” Bedford added. “Her approach aligns perfectly with our club values, and we’re excited to see the impact she’ll have on the next generation of Wild FC players.”
Calgary Wild FC looks forward to welcoming the next generation of elite athletes through this exciting new chapter, continuing to build a strong, sustainable pathway for women’s soccer in Alberta.
About Calgary Wild FC
Calgary Wild FC is one of six teams competing in the Northern Super League which will kick off its sophomore season in 2026. The league showcases some of the best women’s soccer players in the world. Shop our exclusive merch and #SoarWithUs. For the latest news and information on Calgary Wild FC, visit www.calgarywildfc.com or follow the team on Facebook, Instagram and X. Follow the league at www.nsl.ca.