The Canadian Premier League (CPL) is set to launch its innovative "On Tour" series next month, with Kelowna chosen as the first stop. This new initiative aims to bring the highest level of Canadian professional competitive soccer games to neutral sites across Canada, connecting with fans and exploring new potential markets for the league.
The Event Details
On June 16, Kelowna's Apple Bowl will host a thrilling match between Vancouver FC and Cavalry FC. This will be the second meeting of the season for these two teams. The match starts at 2 p.m. PT and will be broadcast as the TonyBet Match of the Week on OneSoccer. This event marks the first time the CPL will stage a competitive match at a neutral site, showcasing the league's commitment to expanding its reach.
Engaging the Community
Leading up to the match, there will be various family-friendly events and celebrations throughout the Okanagan Valley. CPL coaches, players, and personalities will visit local schools and participate in guest coaching sessions with local clubs. Fans can look forward to an official kickoff event, a game day tailgate, and numerous activities for all ages.
Tickets and Access
Since the beginning of May, Vancouver FC and Calgary FC season members have had early access to pre-sale tickets. General public ticket sales opened on Friday, May 10. Tickets are $33 - $53 for general admission and you can buy your tickets here. There is also a family rate for 2 adults and 2 youth (6-15). This event provides a unique opportunity for soccer fans in the Okanagan to experience professional soccer up close.
The Venue
The match will take place at the Apple Bowl, a multi-purpose stadium in Kelowna's Parkinson Recreation Park. The stadium is home to the Okanagan Challenge of the Pacific Coast Soccer League. It seats 1,054 in the grandstand, and an additional 1,200 on aluminum bleachers. This neutral site venue is expected to draw a passionate crowd, including both local fans and supporters travelling from Alberta.
Future Prospects for Kelowna
Kelowna is a key market for potential CPL expansion. Mayor Tom Dyas expressed excitement about the city's selection for the On Tour series and its growing soccer fan base. With nearly 7,000 players in the region, including over 5,000 youth players, Kelowna is well-positioned to support a CPL franchise in the future. The city's involvement in the series is seen as a test run for hosting larger soccer events, especially with the FIFA World Cup scheduled in Canada for 2026.
Impact on Local Soccer
Rob Friend, President of Vancouver FC and a Kelowna native, highlighted the significance of bringing professional soccer to his hometown. This event aims to inspire young players and soccer enthusiasts in the Okanagan Valley. The match between Vancouver FC and CPL Shield-holder Cavalry FC promises to be a memorable occasion, showcasing the talent and passion for soccer in the region.
Looking Ahead
The On Tour series represents the CPL's mission to connect with fans across Canada and explore new markets for professional soccer. By staging games at neutral sites, the league hopes to expand its fan base and bring the excitement of soccer to communities that may not have easy access to professional matches. The success of the Kelowna event could pave the way for similar events in other regions, further growing the sport in Canada.
As the first stop of the On Tour series, Kelowna is set to make a significant impact on the future of the Canadian Premier League. Soccer fans in the Okanagan Valley can look forward to an exciting match, community events, and the possibility of hosting a CPL franchise in the near future. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to experience top-tier soccer in Kelowna on June 16.
