Toronto, ON – July 18, 2025 – When Yaathav Lakshman joined York United FC Academy, he was searching for structure, purpose, and a place to grow. What he found was an environment that challenged him, supported him, and gave him the tools to move forward.
In the latest episode of The Pathway, we trace Yaathav’s progress since joining the club, from his early days at the Academy to his recent performances on the international stage with the Tamil Eelam Men’s National Team.
Earlier this month, the 17-year-old midfielder travelled to London, England, to represent Tamil Eelam at the 2025 CONIFA Asia Cup. He started all three matches, scored once, provided an assist, and played a key role in helping the team win the tournament and qualify for the 2026 CONIFA World Cup.
The call-up was an important milestone. But the preparation began long before. Day after day at York United, Yaathav developed the habits, confidence and discipline that allowed him to take that next step.
“Before arriving here, I wasn’t really sure how to reach the next level,” he shares in the episode. “But this environment gave me direction. Everyone here has the same goal, and that pushes you to raise your standard every day.”
Since joining, he’s become a strong presence within the Academy setup. A box-to-box midfielder with energy, intensity and technical quality, he brings consistency and determination to every session. But equally important has been the mindset he’s shaped, one grounded in resilience, identity and belief.
Growing up in Toronto, Yaathav didn’t see much Tamil representation in soccer. That experience shaped his outlook and fuels his motivation today.
“He’s taken it upon himself to be that motivation for the next generation of footballers that come from our community,” says his mother, Dr. Mina Lakshman.
For York United FC, Yaathav’s story captures the purpose of the Academy program: to support the development of local talent through a clear, professional structure. His journey is a reflection of what the club is building, an environment where young players can grow with intention and move forward with confidence.
Watch the episode now and follow the journey.
