Introduction to Canadian Soccer For years, Canada lacked a national soccer league. Though Canadian teams like Toronto FC and Vancouver Whitecaps played in Major League Soccer (MLS), there was no Canadian league. Aspiring Canadian players had limited opportunities to play professionally at home. This changed in 2017 when Canada Soccer announced the creation of the Canadian Premier League (CPL). Officially launched in 2019, the CPL became Canada’s first fully professional soccer league.

The Wide Target Man in Soccer: A Tactical Distinctiveness

Building the Canadian Premier League Vision

The idea for a Canadian soccer league had been discussed for decades. However, many attempts struggled to gain momentum. When Canada joined the bid for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the need for a Canadian league became urgent. Canada Soccer wanted to give Canadian players a strong, local platform to develop their skills. They aimed to build a league that would benefit Canadian soccer for generations. Two Canadian entrepreneurs, Bob Young and Scott Mitchell, played a central role in making CPL a reality. Working with Canada Soccer and key investors, they shaped a league focused on Canadian talent. By 2017, the Canadian Premier League was officially in motion. For the first time, young Canadians could see a pathway to professional soccer in Canada.

The Inaugural CPL Season: 2019

The CPL’s first season kicked off in April 2019, featuring seven teams:

1. Forge FC (Hamilton, Ontario)
2. Cavalry FC (Calgary, Alberta)
3. FC Edmonton (Edmonton, Alberta)
4. Valour FC (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
5. HFX Wanderers (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
6. Pacific FC (Victoria, British Columbia)
7. York9 FC (York Region, Ontario)

The first match saw Forge FC and York9 FC face off, marking a historic start. The season used a “Spring and Fall” format, with winners from each half meeting in the final. Forge FC claimed the league’s first championship, defeating Cavalry FC. This victory gave Forge an early lead in CPL history.

Key Goals of the CPL

The CPL set out to develop Canadian players above all. To ensure this, the league required each team to have a minimum number of Canadian players. They also set guidelines to give young Canadian players significant playing time. This commitment helps local talent grow and gain valuable experience in professional soccer. The league also focuses on connecting with local communities. Each CPL team works to build strong relationships with fans and engage with youth programs. Through outreach efforts and community programs, CPL clubs aim to build lasting bonds with soccer fans across Canada.

Key Moments in the CPL

1. Forge FC’s International Success In 2019, Forge FC became the first CPL team to compete in the Concacaf League. This competition put Canadian talent on a bigger stage. Later, Forge qualified for the 2021 Concacaf Champions League. Their international performances boosted CPL’s reputation and inspired other teams to aim high.
2. The Island Games in 2020 In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic posed major challenges. The CPL adapted with the “Island Games,” a condensed tournament held in Prince Edward Island. Despite the obstacles, the league kept fans engaged and players motivated. Forge FC won the tournament, strengthening their dominance in the early years.
3. The First Expansion Team: Atlético Ottawa In 2020, Atlético Ottawa became CPL’s first expansion team. Backed by Atlético Madrid of Spain’s La Liga, the team sparked international interest. Atlético Ottawa brought CPL to the capital, adding excitement and visibility to the league.

Canadian Talent Shines in CPL

The CPL has created new paths for Canadian players. Tristan Borges, who played for Forge FC in 2019, won the league’s Golden Boot and Player of the Year. This success led to a transfer to Europe, proving the CPL’s value as a launching pad for talent. Several CPL players have also joined the Canadian national team. For example, Joel Waterman, formerly of Cavalry FC, went on to represent Canada in World Cup Qualifiers. The CPL’s emphasis on Canadian talent means that more players now have the chance to play for Canada on the global stage.

Types of Protein Every Soccer Player Needs to Know

Overcoming Challenges

Although CPL has achieved much, challenges remain. Competing for fans’ attention is difficult in a landscape dominated by hockey and MLS. Additionally, funding and infrastructure needs are ongoing issues. Yet, the league has found ways to adapt. By focusing on grassroots growth and expanding to cities with potential, CPL has laid a solid foundation. Fan support, especially in cities like Halifax and Hamilton, has also driven the league’s growth.

CPL’s Present and Future

Today, the CPL continues to expand. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, CPL plays a crucial role in developing Canadian talent. As the league grows, it hopes to add more teams and increase investments in stadiums and training facilities. CPL’s success has shown that Canadian soccer has a bright future.

Conclusion

The Canadian Premier League represents a new era for soccer in Canada. Since its launch in 2019, it has given Canadian players and fans a chance to engage with the sport on home soil. By focusing on community connections and local talent, the CPL is building something lasting. As the league grows, it will inspire new generations and help shape Canada’s soccer journey well into the future.

---

The History of Major League Soccer (MLS)

Keep the conversation going! Follow Soccer Wizdom on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and Youtube for more soccer insights and updates.