Toronto FC Academy U-15 Coach and former TFC player Terry Dunfield has been named the coaching staff for the U-23 Canadian Men’s National National Team ahead of the Concacaf Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

“It’s an incredible honour, a duty,” said Dunfield, who is in his fourth year as a coach in the TFC Academy. “Each time I get the nod from coach John Herdman, it’s all business. I ask myself, ‘How can I best execute my role?’ I am very grateful to Ali Curtis and Anthony Capotosto for finding a way to make it work.”

Concacaf Men’s Olympic Qualifying will be held in Guadalajara, Mexico from March 18-30. Canada will challenge for one of two Concacaf spots up for grabs to this summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo. Canada’s squad will prepare for the competition with an opportunity to become the first Canadian youth team to ever qualify for an Olympic Games. 

“We are very proud to have Terry represent the Academy and Toronto FC. We maintain a great relationship with Canada Soccer and this is just another example of how our collaboration continues to be mutually beneficial,” said TFC Academy Director Anthony Capotosto. “Terry has shown an incredible commitment to his professional development in recent years, and has developed valuable coaching skills, particularly in the area of performance analytics.  He will be a tremendous asset to the Canada Soccer staff.”

Only players born 1997 or later are eligible for the qualifying tournament, whereas the Olympic Games may feature up to three overage players. Unlike previous qualifying campaigns, nations may only feature 17 outfield players (instead of 18) and three goalkeepers.

“It’s never a mindset about my own development as a coach when I come into National Team camp,” Dunfield continues. “It’s time to perform. I use my skill set and experiences to help achieve our objectives. The high performance environment pushes the limits. I love it.”