B.C. soccer clubs are anticipating a significant increase in youth registration this fall following the excitement of the 2026 World Cup, with coaches and administrators working to convert short-term enthusiasm into sustained participation. The tournament, co-hosted by Canada, has sparked a surge of interest among young players, who are inspired by watching international stars compete on the global stage.
World Cup sparks geography lessons and passion
Jeff Hodgson, a high school phys-ed teacher, soccer player and board member with South Delta United Soccer Club, recalled his eight-year-old daughter asking, "Canada is playing Morocco. Where is Morocco?" ahead of a match. "She's fascinated with the global connection," said Hodgson. "I'm seeing this World Cup through her eyes, and it's almost impossible not to feel the love for the game and the passion for country." Hodgson believes the "connection to the world of soccer" from hosting the World Cup will leave a lasting impression on a generation of young players across Metro Vancouver.
Clubs expect enrolment bump and better pathways
Local clubs are expecting a bump in enrolment this fall as well as increased opportunities for players at all levels. Jeff Clarke, sporting director and coach with Surrey United Soccer Club, said, "I think it'll give people belief that they can achieve their dreams, because they're experiencing this vicariously." He added that local teams have an opportunity to "parlay" the sudden increase in interest into more sustained engagement. Clarke noted that in Europe, eight of the top 10 athletes play football, while in North America, soccer competes with American football, hockey, baseball and lacrosse. "Hopefully soccer starts to compete for those top athletes even more now, and we can keep them in the system longer," he said.
Coaches emphasize long-term development
Chris Laxton, head coach of the Douglas College Royals women's team, said it's common to see registration increase with large events but stressed "it's our job to hold onto them." He noted that the World Cup and Canada's three MLS teams show youth what it looks like to compete at the international level. "I think in the past, it may not have been clear what the next step is to get there, but I think players can see that pathway now," Laxton said.
Jesse Symons, head coach of the University of B.C. women's soccer team, called hosting a World Cup a "once in a lifetime opportunity." His own children have been glued to the TV during matches. "They've been taking it all in," he said. "We're living the World Cup." Symons added that soccer is still "in its infancy" in Canada compared to other parts of the world, but the atmosphere around the tournament is likely to inspire kids to continue watching and playing long after it ends.
