AFC Toronto is taking decisive steps to solidify its future, announcing the retention of nine more players for the upcoming 2026 National Soccer League (NSL) season. This significant move brings the total number of athletes under contract with the club to 18, signaling a strong commitment to roster stability and long-term planning.
Building a Foundation for the Future
The club's management made the strategic decision public on December 17, 2025. While the specific names of the nine retained players were not immediately released in the initial announcement, this move follows the high-profile success of stars like forward Kaylee Hunter. Hunter, wearing number 11, was instrumental in the team's recent campaign, notably scoring in the NSL final against Vancouver Rise FC on November 15, 2025.
This retention spree is a clear indicator of the club's direction. Instead of entering a major rebuilding phase, AFC Toronto is choosing to invest in and develop its existing talent pool. Securing 18 players this far in advance of the 2026 season provides the coaching staff with a solid core around which to build tactical systems and team chemistry.
Strategic Roster Management in Canadian Soccer
In the competitive landscape of Canadian professional women's soccer, retaining key personnel is often as crucial as acquiring new stars. By ensuring a large group of players is under contract, AFC Toronto mitigates the risk of off-season departures and creates a predictable environment for development. This approach allows for continuity, which is frequently a cornerstone of successful sports franchises.
The announcement positions AFC Toronto as a stable and ambitious entity within the NSL. For fans, it offers reassurance that the team they supported through the 2025 season, including its thrilling final run, will have a familiar face when it returns to the pitch. The focus now will likely shift to complementing this strong core with targeted acquisitions in the transfer market to address specific needs.
With 18 players already secured, the club's management can now operate from a position of strength as they plan for the 2026 season. The retained group, which includes impactful players like Kaylee Hunter, will be expected to form the backbone of a squad aiming to go one step further and capture the NSL championship.
