New Women’s Soccer Team Coming to Montreal
A new professional women’s soccer team is set to debut in Montreal next spring, as part of a brand-new Canadian league. The team will be led by former player Diana Matheson, with the code name “Project 8” soon to be replaced by the league’s official name.
The team’s co-founders, Isabèle Chevalier and Jean-François Crevier, are enthusiastic about growing the women’s sports movement and are committed to involving the community in the ownership of the club. Montreal will be the fifth confirmed team in the league, with the sixth team to be announced soon. The vision is for the team to be owned collectively by the people of Quebec, including those in the business, sports, arts, and cultural communities.
Fan Involvement and Stadium Sharing
The team’s co-founders plan to invite fans to become investors in the club to foster a sense of belonging. The season will consist of 25 matches from April to November, with a playoff format similar to the Canadian Premier League or MLS. The team will share stadiums like Saputo Stadium, CEPSUM, and Claude-Robillard Sports Complex for games and practices.
Discussions are ongoing regarding ticket prices and training facilities to provide a world-class environment for the players. The team aims to attract top talent from around the world, leveraging Montreal’s francophone culture and high-quality training facilities.
Impact on Women’s Soccer in Canada
The launch of the new team in Montreal is seen as a significant development for women’s soccer in Canada, providing a platform for local talent to showcase their skills. The team’s founders believe that the rich pool of players in Quebec will contribute to the success of the club and attract players back to Canada. The goal is to create a strong identity for the team and establish a competitive presence in the Canadian soccer landscape.