On Friday, May 17, 2024, Mayor Patrick Brown, joined by renowned Canadian soccer player and Brampton native Atiba Hutchinson, proudly announced the official opening of Canada’s first-ever fully-lit soccer court. Named in honor of Mr. Hutchinson, this new facility is a pivotal addition to the forthcoming Century Gardens Youth Hub, set to open in 2025. This initiative aims to provide a modern and accessible facility that serves the community and fosters youth development.
“We are thrilled to bring this groundbreaking recreational facility to Brampton. The soccer court at Century Gardens Youth Hub will provide a safe and inclusive space for youth to engage in the sport they love or want to explore. This investment underscores our dedication to meeting the needs of our growing community and builds a culture of health and wellness among our youth,” said Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor for Wards 1 & 5 and Chair of Community Services for the City of Brampton.
The soccer court, which is fully enclosed and features an artificial turf surface, is designed to welcome residents of all skill levels and abilities, offering a safe environment to learn the sport and enhance their skills. This addition provides another outdoor space in the community, encouraging youth to stay active and lead healthy lifestyles.
Mayor Patrick Brown emphasized the significance of this development, stating, “The opening of Canada’s first-ever fully lit soccer court marks a significant milestone for sports infrastructure in Brampton. This innovative facility, named in honour of Atiba Hutchinson, reflects our commitment to providing accessible and modern amenities for our community. The Atiba Hutchinson Soccer Court will serve as a hub for soccer enthusiasts of all skill levels and abilities and promote active living and youth development in Brampton. Thank you, Atiba, for your partnership in bringing this sport to more youth in our city.”
Atiba Hutchinson, the most accomplished male soccer player in Canadian history, shared his thoughts on the new facility: “As a proud Brampton native, I know firsthand the transformative power of soccer in shaping young lives. Growing up in this vibrant community, I honed my skills on local fields, learning valuable lessons of teamwork, resilience, and dedication. I am honoured to have the newest soccer amenity named after me. I look forward to helping to provide the same opportunities I had to the next generation of Brampton’s youth through the soccer court and will continue to be a strong advocate for youth development through sports.”
Paul Vicente, Regional Councillor for Wards 1 & 5, also expressed his excitement about the new facility: “This soccer court is a testament to our city’s commitment to youth development and community engagement. We believe in creating spaces where young people can thrive, learn, and grow. The Atiba Hutchinson Soccer Court will undoubtedly become a cornerstone of our community, fostering a love for sports and healthy living among our youth.”
Brampton is home to approximately 150,000 youth aged 14 to 29, and the city remains committed to creating safe and accessible spaces that promote learning and offer diverse programs to meet the needs and interests of its young residents. The city hosts 133 outdoor soccer fields, three year-round indoor turf fields, and four seasonal indoor turf fields (available from November to April). In 2023, Brampton’s soccer amenities hosted over 525 unique seasonal organizations, tournaments, and individuals, booking over 40,000 hours of field time.
As one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, Brampton is home to nearly 700,000 people and over 100,000 businesses. The city is driven by its diverse communities, attracts significant investment, and is committed to leading technological and environmental innovation. Connect with us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Learn more at www.brampton.ca.
About Atiba Hutchinson Atiba Hutchinson, recently retired captain of the Canadian men’s national soccer team, is celebrated as the most accomplished male soccer player in Canadian history. He has been named the top male Canadian Soccer Player of the Year six times and has represented Canada in more international matches than any other male player.
About The AH13Foundation The AH13Foundation, founded by Canadian professional soccer player Atiba Hutchinson, focuses on youth athletic development. The foundation believes that team sports, physical activity, and leadership opportunities can profoundly impact youth and their communities. Its inaugural event, the Atiba Hutchinson Invitational Youth Soccer Tournament, encourages youth to positively impact their local communities by showcasing their community contributions as a form of entry into the tournament.
For more information about the Atiba Hutchinson Soccer Court, visit this website.