As the World Cup arrives in Vancouver in less than 75 days, excitement around soccer in Canada is reaching new heights. In this op-ed, Vancouver FC owner Dean Shillington reflects on this pivotal moment and the club’s role in developing local talent into professionals and national team players, supported by a Canadian Premier League that is creating real pathways for homegrown athletes.

VFC_VS_ATL_OTTAWA_05302025_CPL_Sarah-Parker(@matchonemedia)-150
Local
clubs
like
Vancouver
FC
are
the
heart
of
that
ecosystem
where
players
grow,
fans
engage,
and
momentum
continues
long
after
the
final
whistle.
Dean Shillington, Owner, Vancouver FC

He also looks ahead to a pivotal season for Vancouver FC, building on recent success and growing national attention. With players progressing to national teams and opportunities abroad, the vision is taking shape. As the season kicks off April 4 in Langley, the focus is clear: compete, win, and keep building for the future.

Read the full op-ed HERE.