Latest news with #Steve
Vancouver Sun
7 hours ago
- Sport
- Vancouver Sun
'Massively exciting time for soccer in Vancouver': meet Martin Nash, new head coach of Vancouver FC
I never thought the day would come when I would be back in my hometown coaching a professional soccer team in our own domestic league, with a chance to make history in the Canadian Championship, all less than a year before the World Cup rolls into town. My family has made Vancouver our permanent home since 2004 when I came back to join the Whitecaps from Montreal after playing in England the previous four years. Our kids went to school here, so after growing up on Vancouver Island, this city is now our home, it's where I want to be. The chance to become head coach of Vancouver FC in the Canadian Premier League is a challenge I am honoured to take on. A daily roundup of Opinion pieces from the Sun and beyond. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Informed Opinion will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. Soccer was always the main sport in our family. I played with kids a year older, so I got to play with my brother Steve on the same team a lot of the time. And he was an excellent player, provincial high school MVP, while my sister Joann was captain of the University of Victoria Vikings soccer team. Our dad was also a semi-pro player, so the three of us had soccer in our blood and two of us went quite far in the sport. Obviously Steve went in a different direction becoming one of the NBA's all-time great basketballers. But soccer was the first sport we ever played and my first love that I was lucky enough to gain a pro career out of. But when I grew up there was no pathway for young Canadian players to move up the ladder as a professional. Luckily I made the Vancouver 86ers of the old CSL as a teenager. From there, to keep my career going, I had to go overseas. I went on tryouts, which is tough to do as a young kid leaving the country. I went on a series of trials before I stuck as most players do — you don't usually just go to one club and stick. I spent six weeks at Tottenham Hotspur as a 17-year-old and played in a first-team friendly but wasn't able to catch their eye, and then it was on to the next club, which was a smaller London club called Watford. That didn't pan out either, so it was off to Southend where I was close to signing but it didn't happen so I went home. A year later I gave it another go and went back on trial at Stockport County and was able to catch on after three weeks of trials. So they took their time to make their decisions and it wasn't always easy but it was something you had to go through those days if you wanted a career. You had to really want it bad and put in the sacrifice. For me the sacrifice was worth it. I earned 38 caps with Canada from 1997 to 2008, including winning the Gold Cup in 2000, but my first cap didn't come until pretty much the same day I signed that contract with Stockport in England. That shouldn't be the required path to selection for the national team for any of our young players. What Vancouver FC has been doing as a franchise is giving young players a chance to have a pro career here, promoting them, being able to secure transfers for a few. It's a phenomenal experience to be able to offer that opportunity and something I want to be a part of. Before 2019 and the formation of the Canadian Premier League we were the only developed country in the world without a Tier 1 domestic league, and now with the likes of VFC working with organizations such as Langley United and the Fraser Valley Soccer League it's exciting to see a Canadian soccer ecosystem developing. A wide pathway is emerging and already there aren't anywhere near as many players slipping through the cracks. I know a lot of players are getting chances either as a youth, after coming out of university, or getting a second chance coming back from another pro environment like one of the MLS teams. Vancouver FC gives a chance to both rising stars and late bloomers in Metro Vancouver, the rest of B.C. and beyond, and obviously the coaches are going to help and do everything they can, but players still have to want it. Sacrifice is a good word for it. You have to dive in and give everything you have. It's one thing having the opportunity but you need to have the will and put in the effort and do everything you can. Nothing will come easy, you must put in the work. That's a message I will be making clear to our young squad over the coming weeks and months. The timing is perfect with a World Cup coming to Vancouver next summer. If you had asked me even 10 years ago I'd have never thought it would be a possibility. For the next generation to watch the biggest sporting event in the world and see the biggest stars in our city is going to be a special opportunity. The impact of the tournament should be massive on soccer in the region, and in particular on that domestic pathway and the CPL. There was once a time back when I was playing with Canada when half the team was from Vancouver. That's not so anymore, but with this league I believe we can get back to that. I want to help young players take the next step, but winning is part of development. I want to have a team that has the belief to make the playoffs. Right now we have a first-ever Canadian championship semifinal to prepare for on Aug. 13 at Willoughby Stadium. The chance to be the first CPL team in the final where we could potentially have a city derby against the Whitecaps is something to look forward to. It's the biggest pro soccer tournament in the country — if you win this event you get a berth in the CONCACAF Champions League. So I'm really looking forward to it, to getting better, growing and developing myself. Everyone needs to be on the same page in the club and in the community at this massively exciting time for soccer in Vancouver. Let's get started.
Daily Mirror
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
BBC Breakfast's Carol Kirkwood shares emotional struggle that forced her to leave set
BBC Breakfast's Carol Kirkwood has opened up about her personal life and how she was forced to have a 'good cry' when she was off-air, following her divorce from first husband Jimmy Kirkwood Carol Kirkwood has revealed the heart-wrenching reason she had to have a "good cry" on set. In a recent chat, the Scottish weather presenter discussed the challenging time she faced when she divorced property tycoon Jimmy Kirkwood in 2008 after 18 years of wedded bliss. Carol, who tied the knot with her second husband, police officer Steve Randall, in 2021, shared that she had to maintain her "sunny" persona on screen, despite the turmoil in her personal life. In fact, it was so overwhelming for her that she had to let out a "good cry" when she was off-air, but it seems there was a silver lining to the experience that ultimately "helped". Carol, an accomplished author who's also graced The One Show and Strictly Come Dancing, expressed that her career kept her "going", and she managed to compartmentalise her sorrow. She confided to Yours magazine: "I still had to be sunny Carol on screen. It was all so shocking to me. I'd come off air, nip to the ladies, have a good cry and then touch up my eye makeup before stepping back in front of the cameras. "In a funny way, though, that helped with the healing process. I put my grief into a compartment, which I kept separate from my work, or I'd have ended up in a heap of tears. Work kept me going," reports the Express. Carol has previously admitted that she feels like she's "punching" when it comes to Steve, telling PA that her partner was "very romantic and very generous" and a "lovely man". Initially striking up a friendship, Carol described her relationship with Steve as "nice" and labelled him as "kind". In an interview with The Times, she was asked about his thoughts on moving into her home. She revealed: "I offered to sell my home so we could buy a place together, but he's happy living here. He's a keeper. He's a very good cook and tidy as well, tidier than I am." In other news, the 63 year old recently shared details of a distressing incident where she was knocked off her bike during the Covid pandemic, leading to a three-week hiatus from her BBC Breakfast role. The accident resulted in a hospital visit and a "severe injury" to one of her knees. Furthermore, Carol confessed that the frightening incident left her feeling anxious about cycling on the road. Speaking to Saga magazine, she said it not only halted her cycling but also instilled a "fear of riding on roads." Carol then went on to describe how she has been out on her bike with her husband, but she doesn't "tend to cycle any more." Carol added: "I've been back out on my bike with Steve but when a car overtakes, I get nervous and feel I'm going to fall off. So I don't tend to cycle any more, which is a shame because I loved it." After the accident, Carol informed her X (previously Twitter) followers that she was receiving treatment at a hospital in Slough. She also expressed gratitude to those who assisted her following her accident.
Extra.ie
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Extra.ie
Cillian Murphy's Netflix movie added to critically acclaimed film festival lineup
Cillian Murphy's next feature film is after getting quite the boost as it's been added to the acclaimed Toronto International Film Festival's 2025 lineup. Many an Oscar nominated film has had its world premiere at the Canadian film fest, so it's setting things up nicely for the Cork native's upcoming film Steve. Steve, which is adapted from Mac Porter's bestseller Shy, comes from the Belgian director Tim Mielants (who also worked with Murphy on Small Things Like These and Peaky Blinders) and stars Tracey Ullman alongside the Irish Oscar winner. Cillian Murphy. Pic:The feature will be competing in the Platform competition at TIFF '25 and will be the segment's opening film. The official synopsis states: 'Set in the mid-90s, [Steve] follows a pivotal day in the life of headteacher Steve (Cillian Murphy) and his students at a last-chance reform school amidst a world that has forsaken them. 'As Steve fights to protect the school's integrity and impending closure, we witness him grappling with his own mental health. Cillian Murphy as Steve. Pic: Robert Viglasky/Neflix 'In parallel to Steve's struggles, we meet Shy (Jay Lycurgo), a troubled teen caught between his past and what lies ahead as he tries to reconcile his inner fragility with his impulse for self-destruction and violence.' Murphy not only stars in the film, but he also act as producer through his Big Things Films company alongside partner Alan Moloney. Simbi Ajikawo and Emily Watson aslo star.
Herald Sun
20 hours ago
- Herald Sun
Review: Russell Boutique Hotel, The Rocks, Sydney
Don't miss out on the headlines from Lifestyle. Followed categories will be added to My News. An opportunity to travel back to the 19th century and enjoy a unique stay steeped in rich Sydney history? It's possible at family owned The Russell Boutique Hotel which, along with Sydney's oldest pub, Fortune of War, has just reopened after a meticulous five-year renovation. The location The Russell sits in the sandstone precinct of The Rocks. For those thinking about a pre- or post-cruise stay, locations don't come more convenient than this. Surrounded by the sandstone buildings of The Rocks, the hotel - directly across the road from the Museum of Contemporary Art - is a five minute walk from both Circular Quay Station and the Overseas Passenger Terminal. Enjoy a local Dreamtime or The Rocks walking tour, dine at Quay, say yes to BridgeClimb, shop The Rocks Markets, or explore the harbour by ferry or on foot. Just don't forget a drink at Fortune of War, which has been serving ice-cold beer since 1828. The vibe The Bistro 1828 Bar at The Russell. Picture: Kitti Gould. Originally built as the Port Jackson hotel and reincarnated as the Russell Private Hospital in the 1930s, owners Steve and Fiona Speed aren't exaggerating when they say there's 'a story in every corner of these walls'. Although carefully updated to introduce modern amenities while retaining its old world charm, the quirks of this 28-room property are everywhere - from the rabbit warren of hallways and stairs leading to rooms which aren't in any kind of numerical order, to the multitude of colours used to brighten the common areas. Happily, charm wins out over confusion, with the blue-hued sitting room, and a spacious rooftop with partial views of the Harbour Bridge proving to be particular highlights. The room Marvellous detail at The Russell's rooms. Picture: David Li. Unlike chain hotels, there is no uniformity here; each of the property's rooms vary widely both in terms of size and decor. A common thread? Each room features its own piece of antique furniture, be it bedside tables, a chair or even the original and ornate marble fireplaces, striking wallpaper - many with a classic Australiana design - and custommade, upholstered bedheads. My room, a spacious Timeless suite, overlooks First Fleet Park and George Street, and is one of 20 featuring an ensuite (with a generous tub, no less). Its antique desk, armchairs, large wardrobe with minibar and a bouquet of sweet-scented lilies hark back to another time, but a flat screen, universal adaptors and alarm clock with wireless charging - not to mention its newly added air conditioning units- bring The Russell into the modern day. The remaining eight rooms have shared bathroom facilities, and according to manager Valentin, are among some of the property's most popular. The dining Try the beef and Guinness stew. Picture: Kitti Gould. Down the winding staircase where Bistro 1828, Fortune of War's new dining venue, sits, you'll likely take a seat expecting classic pub fare that befits the heritage timber interiors. Parmigiana and bangers and mash are certainly represented, but for those who prefer something a little more adventurous, executive chef Mark Williamson (ex Bistro Moncur) has elevated the food offerings to include the likes of prawn linguine and Greek lamb salad. Breakfast is included with every stay, and while The Fortune of War Big Breakfast is a clear favourite with diners, you have the option to choose two items from the Something Light menu, or a main from the Fortune of War classics (plus an add-on if your main is priced under $20). The extras Comfy common rooms at The Russell Hotel. Simplicity done well is the motto here, so while there are no traditional 'hotel' facilities (gym etc) to speak of, hot and cold zip water taps are located on each floor and very much appreciated, as is the rooftop laundry. Add to that a line of bathroom amenities available to buy at reception - as well as a signature scent inspired by native botanica - and live music from the beer garden below (luckily, the musician has a great set list), and you've got most senses covered. What's hot? There's no duplicating the character and charm of the property which anchors you to The Rocks' history and location. It's like Playing Beatie Bow, but for adults who yearn for a certain level of comfort with their time travel. What's not? Powerpoints were located so far from my beautiful antique desk that it was rendered useless, leaving me to work from bed. The verdict: 8/10 The perfect pre- or post- cruise accommodation for those keen to immerse themselves in Sydney's colonial history, but also enjoy some of the city's landmarks mere moments from your door. Rooms at The Russell Boutique Hotel start from $300 and include a hearty breakfast. For further information visit Originally published as Review: Russell Boutique Hotel, The Rocks, Sydney
Irish Examiner
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Examiner
Sounds From a Safe Harbour festival in Cork announces additions to 2025 lineup
The Sounds From a Safe Harbour (SFSH) festival has announced another raft of artists heading to Cork in September. Having previously revealed headliners such as Beth Orton and Jon Hopkins, organisers of the biennial event have added a diverse mix of other concerts, including rapper God Knows, and former Gloaming duo Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh and Thomas Bartlett. Unique Limerick artist Bobby Fingers also makes his first appearance in Cork, after transforming himself from Mr Chrome of the Rubberbandits via a series of weird and wonderful videos on YouTube. Nobody is quite sure what the Fingers experience will involve, but we're told: "There will be a band. There may be some art. There will definitely be jokes. Maybe a book reading. No raffle." Bobby Fingers. This year's event is again headed up by Mary Hickson, with others on the curation team including actor Cillian Murphy, Bryce Dessner of The National, author Max Porter, and folklorist Billy MagFhlionn. The usual emphasis on collaboration at the festival will again see various collaborations and impromptu sessions as part of the 37d03d ("PEOPLE") strand. The fruits of a previous collaboration sparked by SFSH were heard with the recent release of A Dawning, the album by Olafur Arnalds and the late Cork musician Talos, aka Eoin French. The opening concert of the 2025 event at Cork Opera House is an already sold-out tribute to Talos. The 2025 festival is also expanding its film strand, with details of that being announced early next week. Meanwhile, Netflix has announced that the film Steve – a collaboration between two of the SFSH curators, Murphy and Porter – will open the Toronto International Film Festival in September before appearing on the streaming network later in autumn. An adaptation of the English author's book, Shy, it stars the Cork actor as a head teacher in a reform school. Sounds from a Safe Harbour takes place in various venues in Cork from September 11-14. For full details and tickets, see
