The FTF Halifax Summer Combine, held on July 9th to 11th, was a vibrant showcase of talent! The three-day event kicked off with testing on Day 1, featuring the 40-yard dash, 5-10-5 agility test, fitness assessment, and vertical jump. Days 2 and 3 focused on gameplay, offering players the opportunity to be coached by college coaches from across North America. These competitive matches allowed participants to impress the attending coaches, both in person and via live stream. The combine was an exciting display of skill, and we are eager to highlight the top performers:
Overall MVP – Alex Lacey | CAM/CM | Halifax County | 2027 Grad
Alex Lacey is a composed midfielder with excellent ball retention, rarely losing possession even under intense pressure. He’s very strong on the dribble, gliding past opponents with close control and confidence. His ability to keep the ball and progress play makes him a key asset in midfield.
Goalkeeper MVP – Matt Rutledge | GK | Halifax SC | 2027 Grad
Matt Rutledge is a reliable goalkeeper known for his sharp shot-stopping ability and quick reflexes between the posts. He’s confident and composed when building out from the back, making smart decisions under pressure to keep possession and start attacks. His blend of technical skill and calm presence makes him a strong backbone for any defensive unit.
Defender MVP – Jessy Lord | LB/RB | Suburban FC | 2026 Grad
Jessy Lord is an athletic fullback known for his relentless engine and ability to cover ground from box to box. He’s constantly up and down the touchline, contributing on both ends with overlapping runs and strong defensive recoveries. His pace and work rate make him a valuable asset in both transition and buildup play.
Midfielder MVP – Maddock Lopez | CM | Suburban FC | 2026 Grad
Maddock Lopez is a commanding midfielder who’s always looking to dictate the tempo and control the rhythm of the game. He does all the dirty work—winning tackles, breaking up play, and covering ground tirelessly to support both defense and attack. His blend of grit and intelligence makes him an essential presence in the middle of the park.
Midfielder MVP – Noah Burke | Farias Soccer Academy | 2027 Grad
Noah Burke is an elegant footballer who plays with composure and style, always seeming one step ahead of the game. His football IQ is exceptional—he consistently makes the right decisions, reads play effortlessly, and positions himself intelligently. With his technical quality and sharp mind, he brings calm and control to any team he’s a part of.
Attacker MVP – Farel Kengne | ST | FDSA | 2025 Grad
Farel Kengne is a classic back-to-goal number 9 who excels at holding up play and bringing others into the game. He finishes at a high rate, showing composure and precision in front of goal. With his strong physical presence, he’s a constant handful for defenders and a reliable target in the final third.
Young Player MVP – Kyrkos Theoharopoulos | CDM | Inter Halifax | 2027 Grad
Kyrkos Theoharopoulos is a promising midfielder with loads of potential and a deep understanding of the game. His high football IQ allows him to read play effectively and make smart decisions under pressure. With a strong passing range, he’s capable of controlling tempo and picking out teammates in key areas across the pitch.
First Team All-Combine:
GK – Matt Rutledge | Halifax SC | 2027 Grad
DEF – Jessy Lord | Suburban FC | 2026 Grad
DEF – Zeyad Dahab | Suburban FC | 2026 Grad
DEF – Ethan Anthony | UDFC | 2028 Grad
MID – Alex Lacey | Halifax County United | 2027 Grad
MID – Maddock Lopez | Suburban FC | 2026 Grad
MID – Kyrkos Theoharopoulos | Inter Halifax SC | 2027 Grad
MID – Noah Burke | Farias Soccer Academy | 2027 Grad
MID – Samuel Cox | Halifax County | 2026 Grad
FWD – Farel Kengne | FDSA | 2025 Grad
FWD – Ethan Ostrander | Spire Academy | 2027 Grad
All Combine – Honorable Mentions:
- Ibrahim Tolba | Halifax County | 2027 Grad
- Zachary Chen | Halifax County | 2026 Grad
- Josaphat Adima-Ulor | Halifax County | 2026 Grad
- Justin Taylor | Halifax County | 2028 Grad
- Remi Armstrong | Inter Halifax | 2027 Grad
