Kelowna's community spirit shines at CPL On Tour match

Kelowna is no stranger to hosting major events and continues to welcome visitors from near and far. From music festivals to sporting events at various venues across the city, our community thrives on bringing people together.  

On June 16, Kelowna hosted the CPL On Tour – a thrilling soccer match featuring two Western Canadian opponents, Vancouver FC and Calvary FC, that brought together fans, players, and the spirit of community. The Canadian Premier League (CPL) is the top tier of the Canadian soccer league system and the sole domestic professional league, featuring eight teams across five provinces. 

The CPL match exemplified Kelowna’s commitment to fostering a proactive approach in developing events that elevate community pride for residents. The City is dedicated to hosting safe and successful events at existing venues that enhance the quality of life for residents while supporting community priorities. Although the Apple Bowl is typically used for football games and track and field events, the field was very well prepared for the game. CPL staff, coaches, and players valued how Kelowna had a one-team approach to ensure the venue was ready.  

Photo by Canadian Premier League

The CPL’s decision to bring professional soccer to Kelowna through the CPL On Tour initiative did not disappoint. Their vision was clear: high-level professional soccer games at neutral sites across Canada, connecting with fans and exploring new markets for league expansion. The match at the Apple Bowl not only showcased the sport’s growing popularity in the Okanagan but also ignited lots of excitement among local soccer fans.

Photo by Canadian Premier League

Leading up to the match in Kelowna, players from both teams connected with students at 11 local schools and conducted coaching clinics with the Central Okanagan Youth Soccer Association at practices and games. With roughly 7,000 soccer players in the region, including 5,000 aged 18 years and younger, events like these are important for our growing community. Exposure to professional athletes, developmental opportunities, and community engagement inspire the next generation of soccer stars to work hard and dream big.

Photo by Canadian Premier League

As the teams took to the field, the energy in the stands reached an all-time high. Despite the rainy weather, the stands overflowed with excitement, hosting more than 6,200 fans, a record-breaking attendance for a sporting event at the Apple Bowl. Supporters of all ages rallied behind their favourite players and teams. 

“Even though it was a wet and dreary day, the weather did not dampen or discourage the thousands in attendance,” says Doug Nicholas, Sports & Event Services Manager. "It’s clear that the impact of the CPL On Tour match resonated far beyond the Apple Bowl." 

Photo by Canadian Premier League

The game was a huge success, with support from the City of Kelowna, Tourism Kelowna and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport for British Columbia. 

“By collaborating with the CPL, other levels of government, local businesses, and community organizations, we not only boost our local economy but also strengthen bonds within our community,” says Michelle Kam, Partnerships Office Director. 

The success of this event would not have been possible without the City’s one-team approach and the coordination across various departments. CPL staff, coaches, and players were equally impressed by the City’s innovation in hosting this event. Despite Kelowna lacking a dedicated soccer venue, staff found a creative way to use an existing facility.  

Photo by Canadian Premier League

Soccer’s popularity in Canada is soaring, thanks in part to the CPL, which launched in 2019. With 1.2 million people playing the sport – compared to the 500,000 people who play hockey – it's obvious soccer has captured the hearts of Canadians. The CPL is experiencing a 20% increase in attendance in only its fifth season, with roughly 430,000 attendees during regular season games. The CPL’s continued success extends to the international stage, with nine league players being called up to the men’s national team. With 15 million soccer fans in Canada, plans are underway to expand the CPL to 12 teams by 2026. These developments will enhance soccer all the way down to the grassroots level – the growth in soccer has never been greater.

Photo by Canadian Premier League

Our city remains committed to being a premier destination for major events. From the CPL On Tour, to the upcoming Brier and the Canadian Country Music Awards scheduled for 2025, and our city’s bid for the Memorial Cup in 2026, our community continues to shine. Events such as these are important in fostering community pride by bringing people together, animating public space, and delivering economic impact.  

“Successful events are built on the foundation of collaborative partnerships,” adds Kam. “These partnerships highlight our city during significant events and leave a lasting impact in our community.” 

As the summer unfolds, Kelowna comes alive with concerts, festivals, and cultural events. Whether you’re strolling through Arts on Avenue, sipping craft beer at Red Bird Brewing NestFest, or enjoying Denim on the Diamond, there’s always a noteworthy event happening in Kelowna.