​​​​​​​ Kickoff event on March 26 event launches City-led activations celebrating “Where the Game Grows” and Brampton’s homegrown soccer talent 

BRAMPTON, ON (March 16, 2026) – Residents are invited to Brampton City Hall on Thursday, March 26, for a community kickoff celebration recognizing Brampton’s national soccer talent ahead of the FIFA World Cup 26™. 

The event celebrates athletes with Brampton roots and serves as the kickoff for the City’s Where the Game Grows campaign and a season of soccer-inspired community activities across the city. 

Community kickoff event at City Hall 

Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026 

Time: 6 to 7:30 pm 

Location: City Hall (Atrium and Conservatory) ​

​Residents are invited to welcome homegrown talent and alumni of the Canada men’s national soccer team with Brampton roots back to the city where their journey began. Attendees can meet the athletes, take part in autograph signings, enjoy light refreshments and participate in soccer-themed giveaways while celebrating Brampton’s soccer legacy.​​

Scheduled to attend: 

• Atiba Hutchinson 
• Cyle Larin 
• Doneil Henry 
• Jonathan Osorio 
• Paul Stalteri ​
• Tajon Buchanan 
  
  

​​As Canada prepares to welcome the world for an international soccer tournament this summer, Brampton is celebrating the homegrown athletes, community programs and neighbourhood spaces helping to grow the game. While not a host city, Brampton plays a critical role in developing national team players and building a pathway from local fields to international competition. Across parks, recreation programs, community services and local clubs, young athletes continue to build skills, confidence and a lifelong connection to soccer. ​

About Where the Game Grows campaign 

Where the Game Grows highlights Brampton’s connection to soccer and the people, programs and places helping develop the sport across the city. Throughout the summer, residents, visitors and businesses can expect community events, match screenings, fan experiences and soccer-inspired activations celebrating Brampton’s passion for the game. 

The campaign also highlights Brampton’s strong soccer culture through accessible recreation programs, diverse local leagues and community-based opportunities for residents to take part in the excitement of the summer season. Local businesses will also be invited to participate through soccer-themed promotions and visitor experiences supporting local economic activity across the city. 

More information about the campaign and event can be found by visiting brampton.ca/WhereTheGameGrows​. 

Brampton’s sport tourism 

Through its Sport Tourism Strategy, the City of Brampton continues to grow its reputation as a leading destination for sport hosting across Ontario and Canada. World-class facilities, a passionate sports community and a growing focus on sports such as soccer and futsal support opportunities for athletes to train, compete and develop in Brampton. 

Learn more about the City’s Sports Tourism strategy​. ​

Quotes 

“Brampton has always been a city soccer talent grows and thrives. The March 26 community kickoff event is an opportunity to welcome these athletes home and celebrate their achievements with the community that supported them along the way. Seeing players who once trained on local fields return to inspire the next generation reflects the pride and passion our city has for the game. Where the Game Grows reflects community pride, opportunity and Brampton’s meaningful role in Canada’s soccer story.” - Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton ​

“This is an exciting moment for Brampton as the global spotlight on soccer grows across Canada. Bringing our community together to celebrate these athletes and the sport they love helps build pride across our city and highlights Brampton as a place where sport, culture and community thrive.” - Martin Medeiros, Regional Councillor, Wards 3 & 4, City of Brampton ​

“Soccer runs deep in Brampton. Our local fields, clubs and coaches have helped shape some of Canada’s top players, and it’s inspiring to see those athletes come back to the community where it all started. Events like this remind young players that big dreams can begin right here at home.” - Dennis Keenan, Regional Councillor, Wards 3 & 4, City of Brampton, Downtown Brampton BIA Board Member ​

“The March 26 community kickoff event celebrates athletes who began their journeys right here in Brampton. Meeting these players, hearing their stories and sharing in the excitement as a city is what makes moments like this so special. We’re proud to welcome them home and invite residents to join us in celebrating the impact soccer has in our community.” - Navjit Kaur Brar, City Councillor, Wards 2 & 6, Chair, Corporate Services Section 

“Soccer plays an important role in communities across Brampton. Through recreation programs, local leagues, neighbourhood fields and community services, young athletes have opportunities to build skills, confidence and connection through sport. This kickoff event celebrates the strong foundation Brampton has built for soccer and the possibilities it creates for the next generation.” - Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, Wards 1 & 5; Chair, Community Services Section, City of Brampton