Funding commitment announced to support community soccer in Calgary

Through a partnership between the Government of Canada, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities and The City of Calgary, a commitment has been made to support a future free-to-use community soccer pitch in Calgary.

The project is part of Jumpstart’s commitment to build 25 community soccer pitches across Canada by 2029, supported by more than $2 million in federal funding through Sport Canada. The initiative aims to create more opportunities for children and youth to participate in sport and recreation in welcoming, accessible community spaces.

The City of Calgary will work with the Government of Canada, Jumpstart, community organizations and residents throughout planning and engagement to ensure the future pitch meets local community needs.

“Calgary continues to see strong demand for quality sport and recreation infrastructure. Through GamePLAN, The City’s long-term vision for public recreation, we are working to make recreation more accessible and inclusive for all Calgarians. This partnership will help expand access to sport, support active lifestyles and create more opportunities for children and youth to play, learn and connect in their community,” says Deputy Mayor and Ward 4 Councillor, DJ Kelly.

“Sport is the ultimate nation builder. This summer, from coast to coast to coast, the beautiful game brought Canadians together and inspired the next generation. We’re building on that momentum. From neighbourhood matches to dreams of representing Canada on the world stage, this free-to-use soccer pitch in Calgary will give local kids the opportunity to get outside, participate in sport and build a lifelong connection to the game, from playground to podium,” says the Honourable Adam van Koeverden, secretary of state (sport).

“As Jumpstart continues to build new community soccer pitches across the country, we’re focused on creating more safe, welcoming places where kids can play, build confidence and feel connected to their community. We’re grateful to Sport Canada and The City of Calgary for their shared commitment to expanding access to sport and play, and we’re excited to work with the community in the months ahead to help bring this vision to life in Calgary,” says President of Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, Marco Di Buono.

Additional details, including the future site location and timeline for the new community soccer pitch, will be shared following community engagement and planning.

Courtesy: The City of Calgary Newsroom