At viaSport, we’re passionate about capturing authentic, diverse, and influential stories from all in the BC sport community. The following story is a part of our #YearOfYou series, which focuses on telling stories from individuals from varying experience levels and walks of life.

Sport is for everyone: getting involved in sport not only improves long-term health, but shapes well-rounded, resilient individuals. Participating can help you build meaningful friendships, find community, and positively shape the course of your life on and off the field. Learn more about #YearOfYou and how to start your own journey in sport here.


Gabriel Assis’s journey into sport is rooted in his lifelong love for movement and physical activity, a passion that began in his home country of Brazil. Today, as the Chief Executive Officer at BC Soccer, Gabriel’s career is a testament to his belief in the power of sport to change lives. As a leader in sport administration, he is dedicated to creating opportunities for movement and sport development across all communities, from local grassroots programs to initiatives as far-reaching as Nunavut.

In Brazil, soccer is more than just a game; it is a way of life—and for Gabriel it is a natural expression of his love for sport and human connection. From an early age, Gabriel explored a variety of sports, from martial arts to soccer, volleyball, and basketball, each offering new challenges and fueling his desire to move, compete, and grow.

For him, sport was not just a pastime, but a powerful connector of people and an opportunity for personal development. “Sport was always a fun space to connect with friends and challenge myself,” Gabriel reflects. Through sport, Gabriel learned discipline, commitment, teamwork, and respect—values that became the foundation of his character and would later shape his career in sport administration.

“Discipline, teamwork, and respect are learned on the field but translate into every area of life. Through sport, we are constantly challenged to grow, not only physically but also emotionally, socially, and mentally.” These core skills, instilled in him through years of active participation, are what drive his ongoing commitment to building a sport system that serves future generations.

 “One of my proudest achievements is turning my passion for sport into a career,” he shares. “Whether it’s designing participant-centred programs, supporting sport development, or ensuring that every community has access to the benefits of sport, my goal is to build a system that will impact generations to come.”

For Gabriel, sport isn’t just a career—it’s a lifelong commitment to movement, to community, and to ensuring that future generations understand the profound benefits of physical activity.

Gabriel’s advice to anyone considering sport for the first time is simple: “Just try it! Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. The sport community is welcoming and supportive, and the benefits are life-changing. The lessons you learn and the connections you make will help you become the best version of yourself.”