Four students from the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board recently returned from a life-changing experience, having represented Team North America at the prestigious 21st Annual Defenders Memorial Tournament in Vukovar, Croatia.
The opportunity to play for the U-14 Croatia North American Team came about from a try out back in December 2024. Stacked against hundreds of players, student-athletes Leonardo Andric from St. Agness CES, Jaxon Williams from St. Martin of Tours CES, and Noah Vrataric and Emil Ivankovic from St. Mark CES, were selected as ambassadors of their heritage.
“This deeply meaningful tournament honours the courageous defenders of Vukovar during the Croatian War of Independence. Representing both their soccer club and our school board on the international stage, these students exemplify outstanding dedication, talent, and perseverance,” said St. Mark Principal Rob Kosic.
Meet the Players
Leonardo Andric, St. Agnes Catholic Elementary School
Club: Hamilton United U14
“Playing in Europe was awesome! The game over there is pretty different than in North America, and I’m really glad I got to experience European soccer. The coaches were really good and taught me a lot of stuff I still use now. My teammates were super skilled, and we all got along great, even though we were from all over North America. The players in Croatia were probably the best I’ve ever played against—really fast and talented. I learned a ton just by playing with and against them. It was an amazing trip and I’d totally recommend it to anyone who gets the chance!”
Jaxon Williams, St. Martin of Tours Catholic Elementary School
Club: Hamilton Croatia
"Going to Croatia with the U-14 North America Croatia team was way more than just a trip. As a student at St. Martin of Tours, it taught me how sports can connect people from all over the world. Playing with teammates from different backgrounds made me realize how much we can learn from each other. It wasn’t just about soccer; it was about growing as a person and seeing life from a new perspective. The experience showed me how hard work, teamwork, and stepping out of your comfort zone can help you become better both on and off the field."
Noah Vrataric, St. Mark Catholic Elementary School
Club: Western New York Flash
“My favourite part of this trip was being named captain of North America, because the coach trusted me to lead and motivate the team. An outstanding experience for our teams was facing the best team in Croatia, Dinamo, Zagreb. Vukovar is a very historical town and it was an honour to be able to play on the same field as Luka Modric."
Emil Ivankovic, St. Mark Catholic Elementary School
Club: Burlington Bayhawks U14 OPDL
"This opportunity was truly a privilege, and I feel so blessed that I was selected to represent North America/Canada through the beautiful game of football. This was an amazing opportunity not only because I got to play against professional academies but also because I got to meet so many interesting people that came from all over North America, all with the same dream, interests as well as cultural backgrounds. I was also given the opportunity to visit my parents' homeland and meet some extended family. The entire trip was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I thank God every day for the many blessings including this one that he has bestowed upon me. With God and hard work anything is possible.”