This month marks 60 years of Croatia SC Vancouver, an organization that is proudly maintaining Croatian heritage in the Lower Mainland. Founded on October 24, 1961, the non-profit sports club runs recreational and competitive programs for youth and adults in the Metro Vancouver area.
Today the club oversees more than ten different sports programs and initiatives with a strong focus on youth soccer. The Croatia SC Juniors program trains boys and girls in the community with the goal of molding talented players for the club’s competitive men’s and women’s teams. Canadian Soccer Hall of Famer Nick Dasovic is one such player who went on from Croatia SC to play professionally in Europe and for Team Canada.
In addition to cultivating athletic excellence and participation in sport, Croatia SC serves a greater purpose. The club’s mantra, Dok je srca bit će i Croatie, (“as long as there is heart there will be Croatia”) speaks to its true intention. Founded by George Đurković and a group of like-minded peers 60 years ago, Croatia SC Vancouver is entrusted to all Croatians of Vancouver – without political, religious, or other organizational affiliations – to support and upkeep Croatian heritage in the Lower Mainland.
Over the years, the club has received praise from the B.C. and Canadian Soccer Associations as well as the Mayor of Vancouver and Premier of B.C., on its important contributions to the sport of soccer and the local community. Several of the Croatia SC teams have achieved great success in provincial tournaments over the past 60 years, but a shining moment for the club and its supporters was the National Championship won by the Croatia SC men’s team in 1985.
“I want to sincerely thank the Croatian community in Metro Vancouver for all of the support over the past 60 years. It is an incredible accomplishment to be one of the longest running Croatian sports clubs outside of Croatia and it would not be possible without the dedication and passion of our members.”
Dan Stefan, President, Croatia SC Vancouver
None of this would have been possible without the tireless dedication of the Croatia SC members who have volunteered their time year after year to supporting the club, its programs, and its legacy. On this occasion of 60th Anniversary of Croatia SC Vancouver, the club is thanking all those who played a role in keeping its traditions alive.
