Home Sweet Home for Guelph United FC
The day has arrived. Tonight, soccer fans in Guelph will get the chance to say hello to our new digs, Centennial Bowl, the stadium we will call home for this season and beyond. On the menu is a doubleheader that will see both our teams take the field in two important matches of the early season.
You can still purchase your game tickets or season tickets from our shop, and also in person at the venue.
Guelph United’s teams are excited to return home to Guelph for their official home opener on Tuesday May 23, 2023. The 2 Premier teams play their first game at their new home, Centennial Bowl, on College Ave, behind Centennial High School in Guelph (for directions to the stadium, click here).
The women start the first of 3 double headers this season with a kick off at 7 pm vs Unionville Milliken. Guelph Union have started the season with a 1-3 win-loss record, while playing 2 of the top teams in the league in the first 4 games. They will be hoping to start a winning run at home after a strong performance last time out, despite the loss to last year's league champions, NDC Ontario.
The men kick off at 9 pm versus a very strong North Toronto team, who is coming off a 3 game win streak and is one of United’s main playoff rivals. Meanwhile, our team is one of 3 remaining undefeated teams in League1 Ontario, with a 2-0-2 (win - loss - tie) record this season. Coming off a comfortable 4-0 win away from home in Unionville, after a player of the week performance from left back Colin Gander, Justin Springer’s team will work hard to start their new home campaign with a victory.
The 2023 season looks to be an excellent year for GUFC fans, with Guelph United FC purchasing the Union franchise in January, and in doing so, ensuring semi-professional soccer stays in our community.
"There is a misconception that Guelph United folded the women's program, changed their mind and brought it back. We want to be clear that the Union has never been part of our club and was previously owned by Guelph Soccer. Once we heard the team was folding in December, we worked hard with the players and League1 Ontario to ensure we could purchase the franchise and keep this excellent team in Guelph. We are so happy to have them under our umbrella, and hope the community rallies behind the team to ensure our future success both on and off the field", says GM Keith Mason.
United have also moved from the University’s Alumni Stadium to Centennial Bowl. It is a move that the club believes will be a huge improvement for them from their previous home.
"Centennial Bowl offers us a soccer specific environment that brings the fans closer to the action and players. We believe the intimate surroundings will create a wonderful atmosphere for both the players and spectators alike", adds Mason. "There will be a beer and wine garden offering drinks from local establishments Wellington Brewery and Cox Creek Winery, Fleetstreets - British Pies will be offering food, and you can also purchase United and Union merch and snacks from the club".
Guelph United is very thankful for the support and cooperation of the City of Guelph, particularly with their help to enhance the Stadium for semi-professional soccer. With additional bleachers added, and VIP Muskoka seating, it should be a great event and atmosphere.
Tickets for Tuesday's game are $10 for adults, and $5 for children 10-18 and seniors over 65. Children under 10 are always free at GUFC games.