Surrey bids to host Canada’s National Soccer Training Centre, highlighting top facilities, youth talent, and year-round training potential.
Surrey Aims to Become Canada’s Soccer Hub
Surrey is making a bold play to put itself on the national soccer map. City council is set to vote Monday on a submission to Canada Soccer, pitching the city as a prime location for a new National Training Centre. The move also seeks support from Anne Kang, B.C.’s minister of tourism, arts, culture, and sport, to strengthen Surrey’s bid.
Canada Soccer opened the door on December 1, 2025, inviting expressions of interest for a facility that would serve as a home for high-performance soccer in Canada.
“This isn’t a formal proposal yet,” Surrey city manager Rob Costanzo notes. “It’s an early step to identify potential locations and partners. But it’s a huge opportunity to create a permanent home for Canadian soccer.”
A Legacy Project for 2026 FIFA World Cup
The proposed training centre is more than a sports facility—it’s a cornerstone of Canada’s 2026 FIFA World Cup legacy. Costanzo explains that the centre would boost player development, coaching education, sports science, and community engagement.
“Soccer is the fastest-growing sport in Canada, yet it still lacks a true national home,” he says. “A modern, integrated facility would close that gap while delivering lasting benefits for the community, economy, and national pride.”
Why Surrey is a Strong Contender
According to city officials, Surrey is uniquely positioned to host the training centre. As B.C.’s fastest-growing city with the largest youth population, Surrey can handle large sites, offers excellent transportation access, and is emerging as a hub for investment and innovation.
“Our city already has a vibrant soccer ecosystem,” Costanzo adds. “Hosting the national centre would amplify what Surrey does best: nurture talent and bring communities together through sport.”
Potential Sites Highlight Surrey’s Advantage
The city’s submission outlines several possible locations:
- Cloverdale Athletic Park – 42 acres
- Newton Athletic Park – 53 acres
- South Surrey Athletic Park – 73 acres
- Private land at 4586-176 Street – 112 acres inside the Agriculture Land Reserve
The bid also emphasizes Surrey’s mild climate, which allows year-round outdoor training, along with its proven track record of hosting major soccer tournaments.
Next Steps
Council’s vote on Monday will decide whether Surrey formally backs the submission package. If approved, the city will continue discussions with Canada Soccer and explore support from provincial leadership.
For a city ready to score big in Canadian soccer, the dream of a national training centre on home turf may soon move closer to reality.
