Northern Super League’s opening week gets positive reviews but more hard work awaits
The first week of the Northern Super League has come to a close, and it has been met with positive reviews and high-profile opening games at Vancouver’s B.C. Place Stadium and Toronto’s BMO Field. The crowds were enthusiastic, with Vancouver Rise FC securing a 1-0 win over Calgary Wild FC and Montreal Roses FC clinching a 1-0 victory over AFC Toronto.
The CEO and general secretary of Canada Soccer, Kevin Blue, is optimistic about the impact of the new league on women’s football in Canada. He praised league co-founder Diana Matheson for her perseverance, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit in bringing the league to life. The future of women’s football was on full display during the opening games, with young talents like Kaylee Hunter, Nikki Small, and Anna Karpenko shining bright.
While the football in the opening games was a bit scrappy, it was a promising start for the league. Both Vancouver and Toronto will continue their home schedules on smaller stages, with all six teams gearing up for the next round of matches.
Canada women’s coach Casey Stoney emphasized the importance of finding suitable venues for the league to grow and succeed. Matheson, the league’s chief growth officer, highlighted the need for expansion and infrastructure development to support the league’s growth.
One of the key strengths of the NSL is its independence, with a focus on building women’s football in Canada. Fans are now encouraged to show their support for the league by attending matches and embracing the new era of women’s professional soccer in the country.
As the Northern Super League enters its second week, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead. The foundation has been laid, and now it’s up to the fans to help shape the future of women’s football in Canada. Let’s continue to support our teams, fill the stadiums, and show the world what Canadian women’s soccer is capable of achieving.
