A Soccer Journey: From England to CDS and Beyond
Elliott Lambakis ’27 has been playing soccer since he could walk. In his formative years growing up in West London, England, he trained with both the Fulham and Chelsea Academies—prestigious programs known for developing top-tier talent. Four years ago, Elliott and his family made the move to Canada, where he began a new chapter both academically and
athletically.
athletically.
Upon arriving at The Country Day School in Grade 7, Elliott joined the U14 soccer team coached by Mr. Waldron and Mr. Chambers. That first season, his talent shone through and he was awarded Co-MVP. The following year, he was recruited to join the Toronto FC Academy, one of the most competitive youth soccer programs in the country. He has played with the Academy for the past three years and is currently a member of their U16 team.
Elliott’s schedule is a testament to his dedication to the game. During the school week, he leaves early each day to train with Toronto FC, beginning sessions at 4:00 p.m. As part of the High-Performance Phys-Ed Program (HPPP), CDS has provided him with scheduling accommodations to help balance rigorous academic requirements with the demands of high-level training as an elite athlete. Weekend away games often require him to miss additional school time. His competitive calendar includes tournaments and showcases across North America—from Florida to California and many places in between.
Most recently, the centre midfielder competed in the Generation Adidas Cup in Florida, one of the most prestigious youth tournaments in the world, where his team faced FC Tokyo, Chicago and Houston this year. They also played in MLS NEXT Flex events in Maryland and California—tournaments that offer high-stakes, high-intensity games to aid player development.
According to TFC, MLS NEXT Flex follows a demanding schedule, with teams typically playing three games in four days. Top performers automatically qualify for the playoffs in June. Elliott’s U16 team is currently ranked third and will be heading to Nashville, Tennessee, to compete for the championship.
Looking ahead, he hopes to continue his soccer journey in Europe—ideally returning to England to play professionally. However, he remains open to opportunities in other countries like Germany, Greece, or Italy.
Whether in North America or abroad, Elliott’s love for the game and strong work ethic are proof that soccer is his passion and an exciting new chapter in his journey awaits!
Land Acknowledgment
The Country Day School wishes to recognize and acknowledge the land on which the school operates. Our nearest Indigenous Nations are now the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island. The Dish with One Spoon Wampum covenant is often cited as an example of the shared responsibility for caring for these lands among the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples who would call these their traditional territories. CDS respects the relationship with these lands and recognizes that our connection to this land can be strengthened by our continued relationship with all First Nations, by acknowledging our shared responsibility to respect and care for the land and waters for future generations.
School Information
Junior, Middle and Senior Schools
13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
