Cavalry FC Honours Retired Players

April 30, 2023 – Canadian Premier League (CPL) – Cavalry FC News Release

Calgary, AB – Ahead of kickoff at their home opener against Valour FC, Cavalry FC of the Canadian Premier League have honoured retired players Nik Ledgerwood, Mason Trafford, Oliver Minatel, and Jay Wheeldon.

Cavalry FC prides itself on not only being a pathway to becoming professional soccer players, but also an organization that promotes professional growth for those who have hung up their boots. Head Coach and General Manager, Tommy Wheeldon Jr., and President Ian Allison presented commemorative kits to the four individuals who after successful careers as members of the Cavalry FC roster who now focus their attention to building the club and the next generation of players.

Nik Ledgerwood joined Cavalry FC as the club’s first official signing and first Captain. His extensive resume and experience as a professional athlete helped shape the community in the locker room that still holds true today. Ledgerwood now mentors from the sidelines as Cavalry FC’s Assistant Coach and Community Manager.

Ahead of this season, Mason Trafford announced his retirement as a professional footballer after four strong seasons with Cavalry FC. With an immense drive for success, Trafford was the club’s Captain during the 2022 season. He has transferred his passion for the success of the club off the pitch as he now acts in an office role as Cavalry FC’s Commercial Director.

Known as ‘The Brazilian Ghost’, Oliver Minatel quickly became a fan favourite with his style of play and knack for finding the back of the net during his time as a player with Cavalry FC. With his resilience and eye for spotting opportunities and talent, Minatel has made his return to the club and acts as the Head of Recruitment.

Jay Wheeldon became a force to be reckoned with on the pitch following his signing and debut with Cavalry FC on May 4, 2019. He was tough to beat on the pitch which contributed to the team making it to the finals that year. Wheeldon has now turned his attention to the next generation by working alongside Cavalry FC coaches in developing young players through the club’s pathway system.

“Part of our commitment to building the game in Canada is to provide opportunity both on and off the pitch,” says Cavalry FC President & C.O.O., Ian Allison. “In Nik, Mason, Jay and Oli, there are no better examples of men that have given it all- and enjoyed great success – on the pitch. They have now hung up their boots and…