Cavalry FC, winners of the Canadian Premier League Shield in 2023, are back to work. After a two-legged fixture that saw them lose to MLS side Orlando City SC, Cavs are running a Pre-Season Camp in Mexico. We spoke with Head Coach Tommy Wheeldon Jr. before their trip south.

CONCACAF Champions Cup run – “It was exceptional to play in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, which is the highest level within our region. We wanted to put our best selves forward and felt we did. There’s no shame in saying that Orlando just had better weapons than us when it mattered. We certainly took away some great lessons that will inspire us for this coming season.”

Team’s Pre-Season – “We know that competition matters. That’s why we decided to look for different opposition in Mexico. After a few friendlies, we will play Calgary Foothills’ League1 Alberta team, and then we have the start of the league against Forge and Ottawa away from home. All those games will give us good preparation for the Canadian Championship playoff against Vancouver FC. We never take anything lightly.”

Jay Wheeldon’s appointment as Assistant Coach and Technical Director – “I know him very well! (laughs). We come from a football family, it’s in our DNA, but apart from that, Jay is very thoughtful, insightful, and a great player developer. We have witnessed that with the likes of Victor Loturi or Aribim Pepple – he has been a key part of their development. He’s great at those tactical nuisances within games, and developing pathways for players. He will be crucial in continuing that pathway for our U21 side as well.”