On December 1, St. Maria Goretti Catholic School welcomed home one of its most celebrated former students, Canadian soccer legend Dwayne De Rosario, as the school marked a major milestone with the opening of its newly completed soccer field. De Rosario’s charitable organization, the DeRo Foundation, made a key contribution to the project by donating new EZNets to support the school’s growing emphasis on health and physical education.
Founded in 2014 by De Rosario—an MLSE Ambassador, Pan Am Games Ambassador, and motivational speaker—the DeRo Foundation focuses on empowering youth through sport, mentorship, and community-building. The foundation’s donation adds the finishing touches to the school’s field, which began construction in July 2025 and has now officially opened for student use.
The artificial turf field provides a durable, year-round play surface, giving students a safe and modern space to develop physical and life skills while encouraging participation in key outdoor activities.
Despite the cold weather, De Rosario took time from his busy schedule to visit the school gym, where he held an impromptu indoor training session. Students received professional tips and encouragement from the Canadian soccer star, who shared insights into mastering key skills and improving their game.
For De Rosario, returning to St. Maria Goretti Catholic School was more than a homecoming—it was a chance to give back to the community where his love of the game first took root. His contribution of EZNets to the field’s development, along with his hands-on involvement with students, reflects his ongoing commitment to inspiring young athletes and helping shape Canada’s next generation of soccer talent.
