Brampton renames six soccer fields for Canadian men's national team members

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The City of Brampton hosted a field renaming ceremony for six members of the men’s national soccer team at Morris Kerbel Park on Sunday afternoon. 

“Each of these athletes have made a mark on Canadian soccer, each has a story that is connected to Brampton,” said Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown. “By placing their names on fields in our community, we are creating lasting tributes to their achievements, recognizing Brampton’s important role in developing soccer talent.” 

Each one of the players getting a soccer pitch in their honour represented Canada at the recent World Cup: Jonathan Osorio, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Liam Millar, Promise David and Jayden Nelson. 

The Times

Brown said he received a call one day from the New York Times, the curious author wanting to know what was in the water and how the city managed to produce such greatness on the pitch.  

Brown didn’t provide his response to query from the Times, but Larin took a stab at the question when asked by emcee Rod Black.  

“I think we always had the talent in Brampton; it was just finding it,” Larin said. “This is people looking in the right places and with many players on the national team from Brampton, we are trying to show world and show Canada what we are.” 

Judging by the number of young boys at the event dressed in their full kits, they are following every step of their hometown heroes with eagerness, as these players trot around the globe playing the beautiful game.  

“Kids need role models, and we have six role models who are going to inspire the next generation of soccer players,” Brown said. “For young players to step onto these fields, they will see the names of athletes who want to share their dreams and went on to represent Canada at the world stage. It’s a visible connection to our city, a visible celebration of the pride we have in Brampton. That’s what makes today so meaningful.” 

Chris Gibson Park Soccer Field Senior is now Cyle Larin Soccer Field, Major Oaks Park Soccer Field becomes Promise David Soccer Field, Morris Kerbel Park Soccer Field is now Jonathan Osorio Soccer Field, Flower City Community Campus Soccer Field Senior 1 becomes Liam Millar Soccer Field, Bramalea Ltd. Community Park Soccer Field becomes Tajon Buchanan Soccer Field and Avondale Soccer Field becomes Jayden Nelson Soccer Field. 

ganderson@postmedia.com