This is Vancouver With soccer becoming more popular in Vancouver, where are kids expected to play?
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Nov 19, 2025 Zemir Karim, a CBC reporter known for his insights on sports and community impact, joins the discussion on soccer's surge in Metro Vancouver as the 2026 World Cup approaches. He highlights the impressive rise in youth participation and the pressing need for more playing fields. Challenges like turf shortages in North Vancouver and the growing demand in Surrey reveal a looming crisis for aspiring young athletes. The conversation dives into the potential legacy of the World Cup and how local governments can collaborate to enhance soccer infrastructure for future generations.
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Soccer's Popularity Surge
- Soccer is now the most-played sport for Canadian children and participation is surging across BC.
- The 2026 World Cup in Vancouver will likely amplify interest and strain existing local resources.
Field Shortages Are The Core Problem
- Clubs report record registration and expect a World Cup-driven boom in youth players.
- Their main problem is a shortage of appropriate playing surfaces, especially turf.
Partner To Build Durable Fields
- Municipalities should partner with school districts to convert and light fields for year-round use.
- Governments need to collaborate provincially and federally to fund long-term infrastructure upgrades.