VANCOUVER, Canada –Rebecca Lake’s football journey has taken her from Little River to Vancouver, from whānau gatherings at Wairewa marae to international camps with the New Zealand Football Ferns.
Recently based in Canada, she has just completed a professional contract with Vancouver Rise FC in the Northern Super League (NSL), marking her latest adventure in the global game.
Vancouver Rise FC defeated AFC Toronto in the Northern Super League Final by 2-1 at BMO Field.
Kaylee Hunter opened the scoring for AFC Toronto on 20 minutes but an own goal levelled the game before Holly Ward netted the winner midway through the second half.
Lake played also played a key role and finished on the perfect high.
“I played 90 minutes in the final so to win the Northern Super League was an awesome experience.
“I was very grateful for the opportunity at Vancouver Rise FC and I’m looking forward to whatever opportunity comes next in football,” Lake told www.maorifootball.co.nz.
“It was an exciting move to go to Canada,” says Lake. “I was in training daily from 9.30am to 4.00pm — breakfast with the team, meetings, physio, gym, training, and sometimes mental skills sessions.
“Every second week we travelled for games and were away for three days. It was full-on, but I’m truly grateful for the experience and opportunity to represent the club.”
Prior to this,Lakebalanced her football commitments with a 20-hour work week at KPMG. She is currently on a career break to focus fully on her playing career.
After a stint with the Wellington Phoenix that began in 2023,Lake joined Vancouver Rise this year as an injury replacement in their squad.
“I loved the environment at Vancouver Rise, they have great players, but even better people” saidLake.
“Everyone’s got a winning mindset at the club,”Laketold Vancouver Rise FC website.
Rise FC Head Coach Anja Heiner-Møller said of Lake upon her signing last September:
“We are very happy to have Rebecca at Vancouver Rise FC.
“Rebecca comes in with great experience and leadership skills as a centre back.
“She has only been with us for a few days, but her willingness to impact the ball and positive mindset has been noticed already.”
Māori Identity and Cultural Impact
Lake affiliates to Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Awa and credits her Māori heritage as a central influence in her life and football journey.
“I’m still on my Te Reo journey, but I’m proud of where I come from. Attending family reunions at Wairewa and being part of New Zealand Māori Football was life-changing. It gave me a true sense of purpose and showed me how much my passion impacts my whānau.”
WATCH | Rise celebrates 1st NSL title (Video Courtesy CBC News)
Whānau, Friendship, and Motivation
Lake’s drive to succeed is deeply rooted in her relationships.
“My ‘why’ is my whānau and friends. I love making my family proud — especially my mum and dad, who’ve done so much for me. I’ve made some of my best friends through football, and that’s another reason I love it so much.”
Overcoming Adversity
In 2024,Lake faced two season-ending injuries — syndesmosis in the ankle and a lisfranc injury in the foot — requiring three surgeries in 12 months.
“Injuries are tough, but I believe everything happens for a reason. I stayed disciplined in rehab, balanced life with work, whānau, and friends, and learned a lot about myself. It’s about accepting setbacks, giving yourself time, and finding your way back.”
Aspirations and Future Goals
Lakehas attended two New Zealand Football Ferns camps and is determined to earn her debut.
“My first goal is to keep playing professionally and debut for the Ferns. Longer term, I want to make the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil and the 2028 Olympic team.”
Māori Women in Football
Looking ahead,Lake sees a growing presence of Māori women in the game.
“I see more Māori women and girls playing football, more taking up overseas opportunities, and more representing Aotearoa on the world stage. The pathway is growing — and we’re ready.”
Rebecca Lake’s story is one of resilience, pride, and ambition.
Māori Football Aotearoa celebrates her journey and looks forward to seeing her continue to inspire the next generation of wāhine toa.
Ends
Photo Credit: Vancouver Rise FC Media
Story Credit: Maori Football Aotearoa Media
