VANCOUVER, BC – Vancouver Rise FC confirmed on Friday that sporting director Stephanie Labbé has departed the club.

“We are incredibly grateful to Steph for everything she has done to help build this club,” said Aditi Bhatt, Vancouver Rise FC interim president. “Steph was our first employee, joining before the league even existed, and has been an incredible advocate for women’s soccer in Canada. She played a vital role in building Rise FC and will always be part of our history as an inaugural NSL champion. As part of our planning for 2027, we made the difficult decision to remove the sporting director position, and as a result Steph has concluded her time at the club. We are thankful to Steph for her dedication and the lasting impact she has made with Rise FC. We know that Steph will continue to do great things in women’s soccer, and we wish her the very best in the future.”

The Rise FC sporting department will continue to be led by chief soccer officer Robyn Gayle, with a strategic shift in how the club is investing resources.

Vancouver Rise FC have two matches remaining in the NSL regular season as they aim to secure a playoff spot. This coming Sunday, October 18, Rise FC are on the road at Ottawa Rapid FC with a 1 p.m. PCT kickoff. Should Rise FC win, and Halifax Tides FC lose to Montreal Roses on Saturday, Rise FC would clinch a spot in the playoffs.

On Sunday, October 25, Rise FC wrap-up the regular season at home against Calgary Wild FC at Swangard Stadium, with kickoff at 1 p.m. PCT. For ticket information, visit vanrisefc.com.