The director of Vancouver's first homeless soccer team has always called her players champions, but now they have the trophy to prove it.

The Vancouver Dream Catchers came back from behind to beat Toronto on penalties to become national champions at the Street Soccer Canada Nationals in Calgary yesterday.

"It's in surreal mode right now, I'm just honoured," said Rhonda Alvarez-Licona, who started up the Dream Catchers five short months ago. "These guys are all so hard-working and have changed their lives. And to win in our first year, it's just amazing."

The Dream Catchers recruit people who have been homeless within the last two years and use soccer to promote social inclusion and link the players with social services.

The experience has had a profound impact on everyone in the team.

"It was very emotional," said midfielder Michael Cabrera. "I don't think I would have ever imagined this feeling five months ago. We've accomplished so much, I'm happy for everyone."

Many of the players are already looking forward to defending their title on home turf next year, when the tournament comes to Vancouver in June.

[The Dream Catchers are hosting a small scrimmage and awards presentation tomorrow (Tuesday) at 1:30 p.m. at Oppenheimer Park. For more on the Dream Catchers, see this Tyee story.]

-Matt Kieltyka, 24 Hours