Johnston actually started on a rival soccer club, but, after losing to Vaughan a few too many times, decided to make the jump when he was 14 and try out for Copetti’s club. It didn’t take long for him to make a big impression on his former rivals.
“Malcolm stood out quite a bit at those tryouts,” Copetti said. “I’m pretty sure out of all those guys trying out, he was one of the only ones to make our team…He had that same composure on the ball like he does now, the same ability to dictate the midfield.”
Similarly, Johnston instantly knew that Copetti was special.
“Stef was a bit skinnier than he is now, but he was almost as tall. He was just as good in the air and just as good at finishing as he is now, that stood out to me right away. He would always score goals no matter where we were.”
Those strong first impressions eventually developed into a tight bond through their four-plus years playing together.
“Stef and I became best friends on that team until we went to college,” Johnston said. “We won a lot of trophies together, had a lot of good moments, and some bad moments. We’ve been through a lot together and have been able to grow a great friendship through the game.”
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