Forty years after the inaugural national women’s team camp convened in Winnipeg, representatives from various government levels and the Northern Super League met on Tuesday to disclose the location of the city’s upcoming team venue.
During a press conference, league president Christina Litz, a Manitoban, proudly unveiled that the new Winnipeg team’s stadium will be erected at the Ralph Cantafio Soccer Complex. Litz highlighted that the complex previously hosted the initial Canadian women’s national team training camp in 1986.
The future facility will be a modular stadium integrated within the complex. Winnipeg was selected as the home for the inaugural expansion team of the professional women’s soccer league on July 14, expanding the Northern Super League to seven teams. An investment of $30 million from international sports firm APEX was secured this summer to aid the league’s growth.
The Northern Super League, currently in its second season, will see the Winnipeg team debut in the new modular stadium next season, with significant contributions from Manitoba’s Desiree Scott, a retired player and Olympic gold-medalist.
Litz emphasized the pivotal role of the Canadian women’s national team members in the league’s formation and acknowledged Desiree Scott’s instrumental role in establishing NSL Winnipeg.
The federal government pledged $2.1 million, while the province and city committed $750,000 and $600,000, respectively, towards the new stadium project. Vancouver-based firm SixFive Stadium Experience will spearhead the project, ensuring the stadium’s design allows for future growth alongside the club.
The stadium, boasting a capacity of around 4,500 seats, aims to bring fans closer to the action and create an electrifying atmosphere. Mayor Scott Gillingham expressed excitement over the project, emphasizing the significance of a top-notch facility for professional soccer in Winnipeg.
Rob Gale, the team’s chief sporting officer, affirmed the team’s long-term commitment to Winnipeg, highlighting the stadium’s role in signaling the city’s dedication to women’s sports. The project aims to inspire young girls aspiring to emulate players like Desiree Scott.
As the Winnipeg team prepares to take the field in their new home next season, Scott envisions a future where young girls in the stands dream big with a professional women’s soccer team in their city. She emphasized that the stadium represents more than just a physical structure, but a place where fans come together to celebrate the beautiful game they all cherish.
