New Langford Stadium

Exerpts from Sharie Epp's article in the Times Colonist
Thursday, January 17, 2008

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Langford has scored a hat trick, said Mike Adamek, president of the West Shore Economic Development Association.

Speaking at a press conference, Adamek announced that Rugby Canada will join the Victoria Rebels football team and the Victoria Highlanders, of the United Soccer League's premier development league, as primary tenants of the $15-million City Centre Park. To be built next to the Eagle Ridge Community Centre on Langford Parkway, the Park is slated to be completed in 2009.

Besides the stadium, which will feature dressing rooms, concessions, and luxury boxes, City Centre Park includes a second all-weather turf field, two ball diamonds, a 700-seat arena, 16-lane bowling alley, and 16-hole mini golf course. The Park is expected to have a far-reaching effect in the community.

"The vision is incredible. It's crazy exciting right now," Adamek said.

Adamek said WEDA presented a study about the stadium and field house to West Shore Parks and Recreation -- comprised of reps from Colwood, Highlands, Langford, Metchosin, and View Royal -- but no action has been taken. Adamek turned to Langford Mayor Stew Young, and in Langford fashion, the ball started rolling.

"You throw 50 pucks against the wall, and one or two of them go in," Adamek said. "All the right people got together at the right time."
Except for $1.9 million approved by referendum, the funding for City Centre Park is yet to come, hopefully from developers and government grants. People can have a look at the plans and leave feedback on Saturday, during an open
house at the Royal Canadian Legion on Station Avenue, from noon to 4 p.m.

Read the full article here (pdf)

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The Highlanders FC will start in April '09 and be the first tenants upon completion of the stadium that will accomodate approximately 2000 permanent seats and can be further expanded for special events or larger than normal crowds for soccer, football and rugby matches.

"This new facility will be a perfect setting for a VSL soccer franchise" states Highlander FC General Manager Drew Finerty, "the state of the art field turf, corporate boxes and great views will make a great experience for our fans to enjoy a quality product and get their food and refreshments without missing the action."