It’s about time, Vancouver. The time has finally come, Vancouver is getting a women’s soccer team. Soccer fans, and overall sports fans, you’re going to love this one, Vancouver is officially stepping up its game with the launch of the Vancouver Rise – the city’s first professional women’s soccer team. The Rise is here, and it’s just what Vancouver needed. 

And let’s talk about the name — Rise. It’s not just a catchy name, it’s a statement. Women’s soccer is on the rise globally, and Vancouver is now a proud part of that momentum. Plus, it sounds pretty great when you imagine fans chanting it from the stands. The kits are pretty awesome too. Vancouver has also been a positively progressive city and this team is just adding to that, and it’s a lot more than just soccer, the team is a part of the journey towards equality with men and women’s sports, go Rise!

For years, Vancouver has been a hotspot for soccer lovers. The Whitecaps have built a solid reputation on the men’s side, but the city was missing something: a professional women’s team to rally behind. Enter the Vancouver Rise, bringing with them not just a team but a movement. Finally, girls and women in the local soccer community have a clear path to the pro level without having to pack their bags and move halfway across the continent. And as women’s sports have been on rise on and off the field there is no better time than now for this team to be hitting the field. This team symbolizes representation, opportunity, and a celebration of women in sport. Whether you’re a hardcore soccer fan or just looking for a fun day out with friends, the Rise is about to add a whole new layer to Vancouver’s sports culture.

As a woman who grew up in sports myself, this isn’t just about soccer, it’s about the female sports community as a whole. Having a local team to inspire young girls to get into sports, continue playing sports, and show the possibilities that come with hard work and dedication is truly amazing. And for all the young girls who are in soccer it will inspire them with their game.  Local clubs can now point to a homegrown team and say, “that could be you one day.” The team is creating a direct link between youth leagues and the professional stage highlighting the work ethic, team work, and camaraderie. When you’re young, you are always looking up to people, your parents, siblings, teacher, kids learn from what they are shown and taught, having this team for young kids to look up to is absolutely amazing. The athletes on the Rise will show to younger generations, future possibilities in sports and the power of hard work. 

The team will play out of Swangard Stadium in Burnaby. Nothing beats a sunny day at Swangard and it will be the perfect addition to sports culture in Vancouver with it being an outdoor stadium. I just know grabbing some friends and heading out to a game will be the best Summer activity. 

The countdown is on till kickoff! The first game for the Vancouver Rise will be on Wednesday April 16 at 7:00. This first game is actually being held at BC Place! There’s no better place than BC Place for these athletes to hit the field and debut the team. Tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster and the Vancouver Rise website here. If you aren’t able to catch these athletes in action for opening night, don’t stress the game will be broadcasted on CBC Gem and TSN! 

The launch of the Vancouver Rise is thrilling for all Vancouverites. This isn’t just about adding another team to the city’s sports scene, it’s about building a legacy. This team represents empowerment, ambition, and a future where young girls can see themselves on the field, chasing their dreams. So whether you’re there for the love of soccer, to cheer on talent, or simply just to be a part of something special, the Rise is bringing an excellent new energy to Vancouver and the countdown is officially on! So grab your tickets, rally your friends, and get ready to witness history in the making. The Rise is here and this is only the beginning.