Kudos to the players, refs (I met a couple from Mexico) and all involved in the  FIFA’s Women’s World Cup matches here in Vancouver! I’m only sorry we won’t be back until the quarter finals.

Having (just) survived a meeting- and commitment-packed work week, it was off to BC Place Stadium, where the retractable roof was wide open for two matches yesterday. Although I made it out the office door too late for the start of the Switzerland v. Ecuador game, we were on hand for a closer match, Japan v. Cameroon. Above, you’ll see a shot of yours truly celebrating a goal with some fans from Tokyo.

Much like any major office or other corporate event, the evening’s success was also the result of extensive out-of-the-spotlight contributions of many hard working people. Yes, you had the talented athletes on the field, but I also appreciated the stellar hospitality.

People such as the very gracious Sanka and the gentleman dispensing champagne – as well as their friendly colleagues – ensured that guests didn’t want for anything.

Then there’s Hannah, who is clearly a pro: she was a gracious and relaxed host, yet any exceptional EA or PA who’s ever coordinated a major event would recognise the responsibility and scope of event management oversight she ever so subtly executed.

The volunteers in our tent were not only helpful, they also had great stories of their own.  We chatted with one of them who, as it turned out, has not only led behind-the-scene teams at Vancouver’s 2010 Winter Olympics and then the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, but is also a past BC and Canadian squash champion. Hats off to you,  Jane Bradford, and thanks for all you and your fellow volunteers are doing to make this Women’s World Cup a success.

Now, after sending good wishes to Christine Sinclair and the rest of our Canadian team, here are some more shots from a perfect summer evening in Vancouver, where you can see it was an enchanted evening for at least one sweet young pair.