SFU Women's Soccer returns to Terry Fox Field this week for their home opener, following a strong undefeated streak on the road this season. Senior wingback and captain Kaiden Sherwood leads with six assists as momentum builds for her final season as a Red Leaf.

Originally from Vernon, BC, Kaiden's soccer journey was shaped through years of dedication and support from her family.

"Being from a small town makes it hard to get recruited," Kaiden shared. But she didn't let that stop her. For five years, Kaiden drove to Vancouver twice a week to play in the BC Soccer Premier League. Scouted in Grade 10, she eventually committed to SFU, marking the end of her weekly commute and the start of her SFU student-athlete experience.

Kaiden has been part of the team's impressive trajectory over the past four years. SFU Women's Soccer won the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) Championship for the first time in 2023, followed by a repeat win in 2024. Now, the team has their sights set on the 2025 trophy.

That first championship moment stands out to Kaiden when she reflects on her time at SFU. "I think about it now and it gives me shivers, it (was) such an amazing moment that (I) got to share with this family away from home. Those moments are irreplaceable." Laughing, she added, "And holding that big trophy and getting to bring it home."


So far this season, the team remains undefeated, and Kaiden's goal is to build on that momentum and win the NCAA National Tournament. "We've made it the last two years, so it's possible. I want to see how far we can go, and I believe we can go until the end."

Personally, Kaiden strives to continue leading in assist stats, while scoring a few goals of her own. Coming into her final season in peak fitness and the fastest she's ever been, Kaiden feels she can contribute more, both to the game as a player and to the team as a captain. She pointed out that every year, student-athletes take a step forward in their progress. "I just feel like everything evolved".

"Kaiden is a tremendous player and individual who sets the tone, both on the field and in her studies. Her experience as a player in this program is a phenomenal example for her peers. Kaiden has committed herself to the process of improving each day, and is thriving in all aspects of her life because of that. I am extremely proud of her journey thus far and look forward to seeing what the future holds for Kaiden," shared Head Coach Carlo Basso. 


Her advice to first-year student-athletes? Everything will work out. "You're going to go through lows and highs, but everything ends up working out for the best. My first year, I was such a nervous player, and here I am now, captain of my team."

As captain, Kaiden embraces her leadership role both on and off the field. Whether it's keeping her teammates calm and communicative during games or helping first year student-athletes adjust to their new environment, she's committed to her team's success and culture.

Kaiden emphasized that the team's collective success stems from each member putting in the work and showing up at their best in all areas. "Our coaches really take pride in helping us be the best people we can be, it's not always about soccer," she added.

Outside of soccer, Kaiden is majoring in Resource and Environmental Management. "I've always been an advocate against climate change," she added.

After gaining experience this past summer with a company tracking transportation emissions, Kaiden became even more motivated to apply her passion for the environment and the knowledge she's gained through her degree to industrial applications. She plans to pursue a master's degree in business to further her journey as an environmental advocate.

"I hope to make a change in the future; I hope that I can help."

While she's unsure if she'll continue playing competitively in the future, Kaiden knows soccer will always be part of her life. For now, she's focused on soaking in every moment of this season.


"It's so heartbreaking to remember I'm not going to play with these people next year. I'm losing a piece of myself, but something will fill that void."

Even as Kaiden looks ahead and sets goals for life after graduation, there's no doubt she remains fully committed to the soccer season at hand. And with five Women's Soccer home games this October, it's bound to be an exciting month at Terry Fox Field.

As the season progresses, Kaiden is ready to lay it all out on the field for the last time. What's she most looking forward to?

"Playing for my team, representing SFU and playing with my family."

Your next opportunity to catch Kaiden and the Women's Soccer team at home is Thursday, October 9th at 6pm. The team plays Saint Martin's at SFU Stadium at Terry Fox Field. Admission is free for all SFU and FIC students, faculty and staff with presentation of SFU ID and fans can purchase tickets here. Let's pack the stands and Rep the Leaf!