Corey Birza Inducted into CCAA Hall of Fame

Story courtesy of the CCAA

The Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) is proud to announce the upcoming induction of Corey Birza into the CCAA Hall of Fame, recognizing a record-setting career that firmly cemented his place among the greatest ever to play collegiate soccer in Canada.

The CCAA Hall of Fame honours the remarkable achievements of individuals who have significantly contributed to Canadian collegiate athletics. The athlete category recognizes those whose outstanding performance, leadership, and sportsmanship at the collegiate level that have left a lasting impact on their sport, their institution, and the CCAA as a whole.

A native of North Vancouver, Corey Birza joined Capilano University in the fall of 2004 and wasted no time in making an impact. With a rare combination of power, finesse, and goal-scoring instinct, Birza quickly emerged as one of the most dangerous strikers in the conference, finishing second in league scoring during his rookie season. From then on, his name became synonymous with excellence in BCCAA and PACWEST soccer.

Over an exceptional five-year career with the Capilano Blues, Birza amassed a staggering 63 goals—49 of them in league play and 14 more in the postseason. His goal total remains unmatched to this day, making him Capilano’s all-time leading scorer and the BCCAA/PACWEST all-time leader in goals.

His consistency, drive, and elite finishing ability made him a perennial threat and a cornerstone of the Blues' success throughout his time with the team.

The pinnacle of Birza’s playing career came in his final collegiate appearance. In a thrilling and emotional showdown, Capilano overcame a deficit to defeat Algonquin College in a dramatic 6-5 comeback victory in the 2008 CCAA Men’s Soccer National Championship Final. The win marked Capilano’s sixth national title and provided a fitting end to Birza’s extraordinary run in Blues colours.

Throughout his career, Birza earned multiple national accolades, including two CCAA All-Canadian honours. In the 2007-08 season, he was named both the CCAA Player of the Year and CCAA Athlete of the Month, reflecting the respect he garnered nationwide for his consistent dominance and leadership on the field.

"Corey was an outstanding athlete during his time at Capilano University, earning numerous individual accolades and playing a key role in the team’s success at both the provincial and national levels. His impact continues to be felt today, reflected not only in the record books but also in the lasting legacy he left behind."

Birza’s name remains etched in the history of Capilano soccer—not just for the goals he scored, but for the spirit he brought to the pitch. Corey Birza’s contributions have left an indelible mark on collegiate soccer in Canada as a game-changer, a leader, and a champion. Corey Birza’s induction honours a career that defines what being among the best means.