Since his move to Scrosoppi in 2023, Joshua Paredes has experienced both the highs and lows of Canadian soccer, while maintaining consistent performances from the heart of John Yacou’s midfield.

The 32-year-old began his playing career at Humber College, before moving to Toronto FC’s academy, and ending up in League1 Ontario with Woodbridge Strikers. He then made his move to divisional rivals Scrosoppi and his since won the Men’s Premier title and played in the TELUS Canadian Championship. 

Now, he is once again fighting for Premier Division success and to top the League1 Ontario standings for the third year in a row, while progressing from the semifinals of the Men’s L1 Cup.

Joshua, what are your main highlights from your time at Scrosoppi so far?

Bouncing back from finishing first place in 2023 and losing in the final, to winning the league again and achieving Canadian Championship qualification. The club is a professional environment that holds players and coaches to high standards while still fostering a family environment.

Which person from Scrosoppi has helped to bring the best out of you, and why?

John Yacou, and coaching staff. John has been an influence by leading the team by example – showing his work ethic on and off the pitch in his role.

Most importantly, he’s a human like all of us, and cares about his players. He takes time to understand us, but he doesn’t allow that to waiver on high standards and expectations for players.

How do you prepare for matches to maintain that high standard of commitment?

There’s rest and calmness on the gameday. Light meals, relaxed vibes and energy, and light movement to get my body ready, but the most important thing I do is ensure I’m thinking about individual and team performance and lowering the pressure to ensure I don’t overthink.

I’m always preparing physically, seven days a week, to be ready for gamedays. I am grateful to continue to perform physically and mentally at a high level, and I’m hoping to continue to perform and get the team at the top of the table where we belong.

What keeps you occupied off the field?

Coaching, and my kids. I have two sons that I strive to set a positive example for day in and day out and they are early in their soccer careers. It’s why I continue to push myself to play, to inspire them and give them memories, and hope they follow suit with their actions.

As someone who has plenty of experience in the game, what’s your message to younger Scrosoppi players?

Scrosoppi should be a stepping stone for players going to the next level, but players should also approach the stepping stone with the right mentality and professionalism. If opportunity arises, you don’t want to sell yourself short.



Any player aspiring to be a professional needs to control their approach to ensure they have good habits. Don’t take it for granted because habits are formed during the journey.