Jacob Shaffelburg’s grandparents proud as grandson represents Canada at World Cup

Excitement is building in Nova Scotia ahead of Team Canada’s soccer game on Saturday.

Jacob Shaffelburg’s hometown of Port Williams, N.S., is rallying behind him and Team Canada as they face Morocco in a historic round 16 match at the FIFA World Cup Saturday.

Shaffelburg’s grandparents Marvin and Barbara Messom are two of his biggest fans.

“It’s hard to believe what can happen to a Port Williams boy. Got the drive, the ambition and the talent to do it,” says Marvin.

They start every game the same way, sitting in their two armchairs in front of their TV at their home in Port Williams.

“Sometimes I will sit a little closer because I don’t wanna miss anything. I will watch on my iPad and the TV in case the power goes out I still can watch it,” says Barbara.

The Messoms say their grandson has always been a talented soccer player and they’re most proud of his heart and “Valley” personality.

“You would never know that he’s a professional soccer player, he’s just an ordinary grandson,” says Marvin.

Having been to all his home games in Nova Scotia growing up and a few in Toronto when he played for the Toronto TC, watching him play in the FIFA World Cup leaves them speechless with pride.

“It’s just amazing that he is where he is. He’s just, he’s good. He’s really good,” says Marvin.

“We always sort of think of him as being about like this and crying not wanting to, and nervous about going on the field and playing and he’s gotten over that that’s for sure,” says Barbara.

They’re thrilled he’s living out his dream.

The whole community is rallying behind their grandson and Team Canada.

“Having someone from Nova Scotia on the Canada team and seeing how far they have gone, that’s incredible,” says Adam Brownlie, who lives in Port Williams.

“Unbelievable really, we are so happy for them. A big history making and to know that Jacob is a part of that is just phenomenal and just a great family,” says Daniel Cormier, who lives in Delhaven, N.S.

“It’s bringing the whole world back together. It shows that our whole nation is colourful and we are from all over the world and we are uniting to cheer for our nation’s soccer team,” says Ksenia Sehic, who lives in Greenwood, N.S.

The cheers will be loud at the local Port Pub in Shaffelburg’s hometown.

“This is our first FIFA game that we are showing in the taproom. (Shaffelburg’s) family would frequent this location and a lot of people in the community want to support him,” says Blake Sarsfield, Port Pub and Brig and Barq co-owner.

Sarsfield is hoping for a big turnout. Part of the street will be closed off and they are hoping to fill both it and the pub.

“It’s gonna be a big event. We just kinda got rolling after the last game. Residents contacted me and we got a hold of Blake and this event just started snowballing and we are here to support the village of Port Williams, Canada, and once we got it out there, the Brig and Barq, everybody jumped on board. The Shaffelburgs have been long members of Port Williams and it’s great to support this event,” says Joe Keddy from the Village of Port Williams.

On Friday the crew was hanging up TVs and preparing a big screen. There will be a band at 12:30 p.m. and games by the patio. It’s a family friendly event and no tickets are required.

“We are gonna have water, chips and stuff like that, and there may be some facepainting and games. It’s for everyone in the community, they can come in and have a pint and something to eat, and water and watch it outside and it’s for everybody and everybody is welcome to come,” says Keddy.

Marvin and Barbara Messom plan to attend the viewing party at the Port Pub before the game but by 2 p.m. they will be back in the chairs for kickoff.

“I’ve got so many older friends that have never watched my Probus group and watch soccer now,” says Marvin.

“So many old ladies,” adds Barbara.

The two say it’s nice to see this game bringing Nova Scotians together and are proud their grandson can be a part of that.

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