Nearly four decades ago, Sandra Sinclair took on the role of her daughter Christine’s first soccer coach. A decade later, Christine, hailing from Burnaby, B.C., made her debut with Canada’s senior women’s national team at the young age of 16, eventually becoming a celebrated sports icon. Sandra witnessed Christine’s journey, from winning her first Olympic bronze medal in 2012 to securing another bronze in 2016 and a historic gold in 2021 after a thrilling penalty-kick showdown against Sweden in Tokyo.
Christine, a recipient of the 2012 Northern Star Award as Canada’s top athlete and a record 14-time winner of Canada Soccer’s player of the year award, made history by scoring more international goals (190 in 331 appearances) than any other female or male player before retiring from international play in 2023. Christine emotionally acknowledged her mother’s significant influence on her life and career, highlighting the invaluable life lessons and perspective Sandra imparted to her.
Despite battling multiple sclerosis for 40 years, Sandra kept her diagnosis concealed from Christine and her older brother Mike for over a decade. Following Christine’s triumphant leadership of Canada to Olympic gold, she was inspired by her mother’s strength to pen her memoir, “Playing the Long Game,” released shortly after Sandra’s passing in February 2022. Sandra’s legacy is further honored in Christine’s short animated film, “Christine Sinclair: Kind of a Big Deal,” a seven-minute documentary exploring her remarkable journey and achievements.
In an interview at CBC Sports headquarters in Toronto, Christine expressed her deep appreciation for her family’s unwavering support throughout her career. The documentary, creatively narrated by actor Ryan Reynolds, delves into Sinclair’s childhood and her evolution in the sport, offering viewers a glimpse into her personal and professional life. Christine’s family has always played an integral role in her soccer journey, with Sandra leading the South Burnaby Metro Club and her father, Bill, and brother, Mike, also actively involved in athletics.
Christine described the filmmaking process as both therapeutic and collaborative, a departure from her comfort zone. The documentary serves as a platform for Sinclair to share her story with a wider audience, showcasing her family’s impact and her enduring love for the sport. Beyond her illustrious soccer career, Christine was named co-owner of Vancouver Rise FC in October 2024, continuing her legacy in the soccer community. As one of Canada’s most esteemed athletes, Sinclair’s achievements and humility serve as an inspiration for aspiring athletes worldwide.