On June 15, 2024, the City of Cambridge celebrated a significant addition to its community infrastructure with the grand opening of the Cambridge Soccer Complex. This modern facility, spearheaded by Shane Taylor, the manager of recreation placemaking capital projects, sets a new standard for sports complexes in the region, blending top-tier amenities with community-focused features.
Nestled at the strategic location of 880 Linden Drive, near Highway 401, the complex spans an impressive 30 acres. It features a mix of natural and synthetic turf fields designed to accommodate both local soccer enthusiasts and major competitive events.
Conestoga College, one of the project sponsors, played a crucial role by funding one of the synthetic turf fields and providing space in the Fieldhouse.
“We deeply appreciate Conestoga College's ongoing support and look forward to growing our partnership with this flagship institution in our community and across the Waterloo Region.”
The centrepiece of the complex is the Toyota Field House, a 7,500-square-foot facility that houses changing rooms, washrooms, a community room, and maintenance facilities. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc. contributed $250,000 to realize this building.
The Cambridge Soccer Complex was born from the clear need for upgraded sports facilities in the area, identified by city planners and community stakeholders.
"We had a deficiency in our soccer facilities in the City of Cambridge," explained Taylor. Extensive consultations with local soccer clubs and the public shaped the complex's design and functionality, ensuring it would meet and exceed the community's needs.
Environmental sustainability was also central to the project, with careful consideration to protect local wildlife and flora. The complex is bordered by a Provincially Significant Woodlot, with significant setbacks to ensure its protection. These measures reflect Cambridge's commitment to sustainable development, balancing recreational spaces with ecological preservation.
The complex boasts seven full-size soccer fields, four of which are premium natural turf with irrigation. However, it's worth noting that two of these four fields do not have lighting, but all are well-equipped with irrigation systems. The other three fields are synthetic turf, FIFA certified, with one also meeting World Rugby standards, offering all-weather playability—a feature that Taylor highlighted as crucial for year-round sports engagement.
The complex's strategic location near major highways and local amenities makes it a prime location for hosting large-scale soccer tournaments and events.
"It should be a big draw for tournaments," Taylor noted, pointing to the anticipated economic boost from increased tourism, which will benefit hotels, restaurants, and other local businesses.
Moreover, the complex is envisioned as a catalyst for community growth and engagement.
"Soccer is quite an accessible sport...all you need is a ball and some shoes," Taylor remarked, emphasizing the sport's inclusive nature. By providing state-of-the-art facilities, the complex is expected to enhance physical activity and sports participation among all age groups, particularly the youth.
The City of Cambridge is actively engaging in fundraising efforts to further enhance the Soccer Complex and foster community involvement. As part of these initiatives, a public donation campaign is set to launch in September on the City's website. The city continues to seek corporate sponsorships to support these integral facilities for the community. Strong and caring business leaders who wish to invest in the community are invited to explore various partnership opportunities. Sponsors and donors are encouraged to reach out to Leanne Bond at [email protected].
This campaign aims not only to raise funds for ongoing maintenance and future developments but also to strengthen the bond between the complex and the community it serves. Additionally, plans are underway to encourage local residents to participate in a tree-planting event at the site, promoting environmental stewardship and providing much-needed shade for visitors and players alike.
The complex welcomes not only local teams but also provides rental opportunities for external teams and organizations. Taylor explains that the booking process is streamlined for ease of access. Interested parties can easily reserve their spot through the city's website or by reaching out directly via email at [email protected] or by phone at 519-623-1340 ext. 4018.