Behind the Black & Blue: Kelsey Atherley

Posted on: March 11, 2026

Behind the Black & Blue

Coach Spotlight: Meet Kelsey Atherley

Get to know one of the familiar faces around CMFSC — Coach Kelso! In this edition of Behind the Black & Blue, we catch up with longtime player, coach, and staff member Kelsey “Skittles” Atherley.

What is your role at CMFSC?

Coach! You’ll see me around coaching the little 5-year-olds on the weekend, practicing with the U12s as AGHC, and sometimes running around at the Women’s Academy.

How long have you been part of CMFSC?

I started playing with CMFSC when I was 15… many moons ago.

Who’s your favourite soccer team?

I can’t say I have a favourite, but I do have some ties now to Newcastle (have to support my brother-in-law!).

What position did (or do) you play?

Centre back

Beach or mountains?

Mountains

Do you have a favourite soccer memory?

Ahh, too many to think of! One memory that comes to mind is when our Premier team went to Newfoundland for Nationals and won bronze! We all celebrated after by being screeched in! 🥉🐟

Turf or grass?

Turf

Who is your favourite athlete?

Justina “Juice” Di Stasio — wrestling icon, Olympian, former CMFSC soccer alum, and a great friend.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received from a coach or teammate?

“The game is only 90 minutes. Whatever you leave on the field, that’s it.” Simple, but a great reminder that even through the tiredness, it’s only for a limited time—so give it your all.

Favourite thing about soccer?

I’ve met some lifelong friends because of soccer.

What emoji best represents your personality?

🕺

Do you have a go-to vacation spot?

Cultus Lake! I’ve had a place up there since I was 10 and would pretty much live there in the summer. Lots of bike rides and walkie-talkie check-ins.

Who has been the biggest influence on your soccer journey?

My dad. That man would be at every game (Starbucks in hand) and drove me everywhere. He had a huge influence on my soccer career and the athlete I am today.

What’s your favourite movie?

Harry Potter will always have my heart ⚡️

If you could eat only one type of food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Mexican