COC Statement regarding Sydney Collins

PARIS (July 20, 2024) – Canadian athlete Sydney Collins will not compete in the women’s football (soccer) tournament at Paris 2024 after sustaining a fracture to her left leg on July 18 during a closed-door training match against Nigeria. The injury occurred during Collins’ first match back after recovering from a fracture to her right leg sustained in February 2024.

Gabrielle Carle will replace Collins on the roster, while Desiree Scott will replace Carle as an accredited alternate athlete.

Both Scott (Winnipeg, Man.) and Carle (Lévis, Que.), were a key part of Team Canada’s gold medal team at Tokyo 2020.

Carle, who also served as an alternate at Rio 2016, has 46 international appearances. Her versatility and proven track record will be crucial for Canada’s backline as the team aims for success at Paris 2024.

Scott is a seasoned three-time Olympian who has played a vital role in Canada’s gold medal victory at Tokyo 2021 and bronze medals at London 2012 and Rio 2016. With 187 international appearances, Scott’s invaluable experience and leadership will be essential for the team.

“Our hearts go out to Sydney during this difficult time. She has worked incredibly hard to return in time for Paris 2024, and while this is a setback, we know she will come back stronger. She will be with us in spirit every step of the way, ” said Bev Priestman, Canada Soccer’s Women’s National Team Head Coach. “With the depth and resilience of our roster, it’s a next-player-up mentality, and both Gabby and Desiree’s experience will be invaluable to our team’s success.”

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Thomas Hall
​Press Chief, Team Canada ​
​WhatsApp: 514-709-1054
​E: thall@olympic.ca /communications@olympic.ca

Marianne Gagné
​Media Attaché, Women’s Soccer
​WhatsApp: 613-402-3869
​E: mgagne@canadasoccer.com