Siblings Help St. Andrew’s Claim CISAA Title

November 8, 2024 | 0 Comments

Bermudian brothers Sebastian and Michael Madeiros, along with Reza and Heris Ziai, helped St. Andrew’s College win its first CISAA Championship in a decade.

A spokesperson said, “Bermudian brothers Sebastian and Michael Madeiros, along with Bermuda resident brothers Reza and Heris Ziai, once again brought pride to Bermuda by playing pivotal roles in securing a historic win for St. Andrew’s College [SAC]. The team clinched their second consecutive title in Canadian Senior Varsity D1 Soccer, following their earlier victory at the Canadian Accredited Independent Schools [CAIS] National Championship. This recent triumph earned SAC the prestigious Conference of Independent Schools Athletic Association [CISAA] Championship, marking the college’s first CISAA title in a decade and completing a rare “championship double” for the Saints—both CAIS and CISAA titles in the same season, last achieved in 2014.

“The championship match, held at Appleby College on a warm and sunny fall day, saw St. Andrew’s 1st Soccer deliver their strongest team performance of the season when it mattered most. SAC didn’t allow a single shot on target as they claimed a dominant 3-0 win, applying pressure from the opening kick. Within the first 20 minutes, their persistence paid off with the game’s first goal, which came from a well-timed corner. Sophomore Josh Henriques ’26 delivered a perfect cross to Bermudian full-back Michael Madeiros ’27, who expertly guided home a glancing header, securing his place as a game-changer in the championship.

“Co-captain Sebastian Madeiros commanded the midfield with poise, setting the tone for SAC’s dynamic play. His brother, Michael, played a dual role in defense and attack, contributing not only to the team’s defensive stability but also scoring the critical opening goal that set SAC on the path to victory. Bermudian brothers Reza and Heris Ziai also had significant roles in the Saints’ success, reinforcing the Bermudian players’ impact on this standout season. Together, these Bermudian players displayed remarkable skill and teamwork, making a lasting impact throughout the season and especially in the championship match.

“The Saints extended their lead early in the second half as forward Jarel Ndombele ’26 slipped past defenders to set up senior Nolan Martin ’25, who netted SAC’s second goal. With Appleby pressing forward, SAC took advantage in the final minutes; Jamaican native Jayden Walters ’26 was fouled in the box and coolly converted the penalty, sealing the 3-0 win and the 2024 CISAA crown.”

Reflecting on the accomplishment locally, Richard Todd, Technical Director of Warwick Football Academy and Robin Hood Football Club, shared, “Congratulations to the Warwick Football Academy/Robin Hood players at St. Andrew’s College on an outstanding and rewarding season. We are proud of their accomplishments and encourage them to continue to strive toward their academic and athletic goals. When our players go off and do well, they open the door for others to follow their lead, just as those players from Bermuda who attended St. Andrew’s College in previous years have set a good standard and marker for what can be expected from Bermuda’s student-athletes. This season is a testament to the hard work they put into preparing during the off and pre-season period in Bermuda.”

The spokesperson said, “Under Coach Todd’s guidance, the boys have earned multiple championships over the years, including Michael Madeiros’ U15 team, which went undefeated last year winning the division as well as the Annual Kappa Tournament.

“This CISAA Championship win, marking SAC’s first in a decade, capped an 18-3-1 season. With the Saints’ upcoming trip to Hartford, Connecticut, for the annual Can-Am Super Cup, they look to continue their streak of excellence. The Madeiros and Ziai brothers’ contributions in Canada will hopefully inspire young Bermudian student athletes, highlighting the talent and dedication that Bermuda nurtures in its athletes to be able to play internationally with great success.”

Pictures taken after goal by Michael Madeiros.