After turning 18 years old two weeks ago, midfielder Sami Keshavarz made his first professional start in front of family, friends and Trident faithful at Starlight Stadium last Saturday night. 

Keshavarz signed a developmental contract with the club ahead of last season, the youngest player signed by Pacific FC. An alum of the Vancouver Island (VI) Wave programs, Keshavarz made strides this season earning minutes with Pacific FC on multiple occasions. September 7th, however, was a special night for the young Trident that will be remembered for years to come. Keshavarz made his first career professional start in a lopsided 3-0 victory over the Halifax Wanderers. 

“I found out I was starting the night before.” Keshavarz explained. “Armando (Sá) texted me. I wasn’t expecting to start, but when I found out Pierre (Lamothe) couldn’t play due to a minor injury it led to an opportunity and I was excited to make the most of it.”

Amidst all the goals and chances over the course of the match, the moment that stood out the most to the 18-year-old was when the game finally slowed down.

“Around the 15th minute when you make the first tackle or play on the ball you settle into the game and realize that you’re meant to be here. There were nerves in warm-up knowing it was going to be my first professional start, but once the game started I felt comfortable knowing what I’ve done to be here and prepare for this moment.”

Keshavarz’s family and friends have been ever-present at Pacific FC home matches since he joined the club. Keshavarz subbed onto the pitch to the roar of family and friends in a 1-1 draw against Cavalry FC on June 1st and Saturday night was no different. Sami’s mother has been his biggest supporter throughout his time with Pacific FC, attending as many home matches as possible in hopes of seeing her son on the pitch.

“It means the world to me. Seeing my friends and family in the stands is an extra boost when I’m on the pitch. They’ve been with me through this entire process so getting to play in front of them is a dream come true.”

Keshavarz played a full 90 minutes, winning four duels, creating two chances, and tallying one shot on goal. A stat line that any professional footballer would be happy with, let alone a 18-year-old making his first professional start. With the Tridents winning comfortably 3-0 the end result was positive all around. 

“At first I was unsure about how I played. I am used to being hard on myself. But after talking to Jamar (Dixon) and James (Merriman) they told me I played really well so that made me feel confident that I’m ready. Ready for this level of play.”

Keshavarz is now the blueprint for the Pacific FC academy, joining the club through the Van Isle Wave program. For Van Isle Wave players hoping to make a similar jump to the professional level, Keshavarz encourages athletes to focus on their game and let the details fall into place. 

“Have fun! Trust the process. If you truly love the sport and it’s something you’re passionate about, put in the work and there will be a spot for you whether that’s here, in university or Division 1 (NCAA).”