Two soccer clubs from Waterloo Region are teaming up to kick off a new partnership. Waterloo United Soccer and the Kitchener Soccer Club will be working together to offer a high-performance, senior level program. In the past, Waterloo United Soccer has had semi-professional U20 and U23 men’s and women’s teams in the Ontario Premier League. However, the Kitchener Soccer Club has not had the same options, forcing players to join another club after their U18 year if they want to play in the higher level. The two soccer clubs say their latest partnership will allow them to pool their resources. “You can get coaches in the building that might coach a first team or a more senior team, but can also give back to our youth team,” Ryan McCord, general manager for Waterloo United, said. “So, you have more cross-learning of coaches. You have exposure to different coaches and different environments as you go through that player pathway and journey. But also, just not even just a player. We want to create great experiences, meaningful experiences that families can come to a game on a Friday night.” For this season, the partnership will operate through Waterloo United’s existing Ontario Premier League structure, giving players and staff from both teams access to enhanced development opportunities. Next year, the two teams will be launching a full rebrand with a new name and new colours. Players from both clubs will be vying for a spot on the top teams. This year’s Waterloo United home opener is scheduled for April 17 at 7:30 p.m. when Waterloo United hosts Guelph United. Nothing will change for either team’s youth programs.
