A Burlington soccer club has seen an overwhelming increase in registration since the announcement of the World Cup in Canada. So much so, they are nearing capacity.
Registration for the 2026 season is still a ways off. You also have to be a “seasoned” player to be there.
“We’ve had an eight to 10 per cent increase due to the fact everyone is excited about the World Cup,” said Reza Soufain, president of the Burlington Oldtimers Soccer Club.
Soufian has played soccer all his life. This club, he says, is not only a chance to play but to be a part of a community.
“We have a lot of members who actually have never played soccer before, they joined and believe me, they still play,” said Soufian.
Brian McLaughlin’s dad played professional soccer in Scotland, so the love of the pitch was passed down to Brian. But he is conflicted over what side of the World Cup fence he wants to sit on.
“I love my Canada team. Born here, raised here. I love Canada. My parents are from Scotland. So Scotland or Canada winning the World Cup is very perfect with me,” said Brian.
With the World Cup just around the corner, the Burlington Oldtimers Soccer Club has seen an interest in the game. The only catch is you have to be 42 and above to play.
Norman Khan is 84-years-young and is happy to have lasted 75 years on the pitch.
“Just feels good to be playing and watching,” said Khan.
They don’t keep score or tally the points. The focus for the men and the women who play here is building community and giving back to it. A portion of registration fees are donated to local community organizations.
More information about the soccer club can be found on their website.
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