What happens when an Okotoks United player steps into one of the world’s most competitive football environments?

For Jaxon, a member of the OUSC Anthem B13 team, it was an opportunity to learn, adapt, and prove he belongs.

Recently, Jaxon travelled to Lisbon, Portugal, where he took part in a 7-day high-performance training camp alongside 16 players from across Canada: 14 from Ontario and 2 from Alberta. During the week, he trained with academy coaches and competed against top Portuguese sides, including Benfica, Portimonense, and Belenenses.

But beyond the fixtures and training sessions, the experience offered something far more valuable: a new perspective on the game.

A Different Level

“The game was much much faster, much more physical, and my decision making skills had to be much quicker” Jaxon explained.

Facing technically sharp and tactically disciplined opposition, Jaxon quickly noticed the differences in style. While the Canadian game often allows for more time in possession, the Portuguese approach demanded constant movement, quick passing, and collective play.

“Their ability as a team made them really tough to play against. Everyone understood their role, and they played forward with confidence.”

Adapting and Growing

Throughout the week, Jaxon was pushed outside his comfort zone. Not just in the level of competition, but in his role on the pitch: "The experience was eye opening and really pushed me outside of my comfort zone, which is what I needed to grow as a person and a player."

Traditionally a central midfielder, he was challenged to play across multiple positions, including fullback, winger, and centre back. The experience tested his adaptability, awareness, and understanding of the game.

It was a challenge he embraced.

From a parent’s perspective, the growth was clear:

“The exposure and the situations Jaxon was put in will definitely benefit him, he played multiple positions he's never played before and did wonderful, it gave him some confidence that he didn't know he had.”

Exposure to a variety of coaching styles - from 1v1-focused sessions to defensive structure and finishing - also gave Jaxon new tools to bring back into his development. One particularly impactful moment came from a Benfica academy coach, who identified Jaxon as a natural holding midfielder, praising his leadership, communication, and tactical discipline.

Confidence and Perspective

Competing against elite academies didn’t just challenge him, it reinforced his belief in his own ability.

His mom, Brandy shared, “I think the experience helped Jaxon see what his potential could be… he thought when he went he wouldn't be at that level and this showed him he is at that level and he just needs to continue to put the work in.”

Reflecting on his overall experience Jaxon said, "being overseas and getting to experience "football" where the kids wake up and play or practice for 2 hours before they even go to school was super cool to see and made me a tad bit jealous that they have those opportunities. Speaking with some of the kids about going to academy football schools was really inspiring, I would love to be able to play soccer, do my school work and be able to play the game. Playing and training in those environments really encouraged me to keep working and developing so hopefully someday I can get to that point. It was really cool to see all the people in Portugal and how much they love the game and their country, Ronaldo is basically a King there. All the beaches were packed with people playing beach soccer and just enjoying the beautiful game and I would love to see a portion of that passion here in Canada in my lifetime."

Looking Ahead

Now back with the OUSC B13 team, Jaxon returns with a renewed sense of motivation and confidence in his ability.

From adapting to new systems to experiencing a different football culture, the lessons learned in Portugal will continue to shape his development moving forward.

He’s already looking ahead to the upcoming season and to continuing his journey with his teammates, while also giving back by helping coach younger players within the club: "He's excited to get back with his club Okotoks and looks forward to outdoor soccer and helping coach his little brother Lucas' under 9 team."