Former Saint Lucia international footballer Sylvie Willie has been named as the new programme manager for Syracuse City FC, a youth development initiative of the Young Women’s Christian Association of Syracuse & Onondaga County in New York.
“Coach Sylvie brings elite playing experience, strong coaching leadership and a deep passion for youth empowerment through sport,” said her predecessor in the position, David Pittman Toré, via Facebook. Toré is now head coach at Bryant & Stratton College, Syracuse.
“As programme manager, Sylvie will help lead player development, community engagement, and youth mentorship initiatives for Syracuse City FC and the YWCA’s growing sports leadership pathway, ensuring young people have access to high-quality soccer, positive role models, and opportunities to thrive.
“Please join us in welcoming Coach Sylvie! We are excited for the energy, experience, and passion she brings to our mission and our community.”
Willie began playing at age 13, and went on to represent her country at Under-20 and senior level. In 2017, the Dennery native moved to the United States to continue her academic and athletic career. An alumna of Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School, Willie was a four-time all-conference and all-league scholar-athlete, completing her degree in business management. After graduating, she dedicated herself to coaching and inspiring the next generation of athletes, working with players ages 4-25 across several programmes.
“Well, that is something I always wanted to do. Being able to pass my experience and knowledge on to the youth,” Willie told St. Lucia Times. “I’m currently an assistant coach at the Bryant and Stratton women’s soccer team. The head coach was the programme manager at the programme I just joined, and he recommended me for that position based on my qualities, experience and values.”
The former midfielder set an NAIA-era single-game school record for points (10) and goals (5) against Oklahoma Panhandle, and helped the offence achieve an NAIA-era single-season record for assists (42) in 2019. She has expressed her desire to do more to help young Saint Lucian soccer players get US scholarships.
