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Read All Latest NewsCity of Langford and Pacific Football Club sign one-year deal
(Langford, B.C.) – On Wednesday, April 10, 2024, City of Langford Council approved a one-year Stadium Use Agreement with Pacific Football Club (PFC). The City has been working diligently with PFC to negotiate a new long-term Stadium Use Agreement. Contract negotiations were triggered when on June 30, 2023, PFC did not exercise its unilateral right to renew the contract for another five-year term.
Knowing how important the team is to the community, and the wider Region, Council directed staff to negotiate another five-year contract that benefits the Club, and the community. While the City would have preferred a new five-year agreement to solidify PFC’s long-term future in Langford, at PFC’s request, the City agreed to a one-year term to allow the parties to negotiate more fully on a longer-term contract. This one-year Agreement includes improvements, and additions to the previous contract terms, as requested by PFC. Over the coming months, staff will work collaboratively with the Club to secure a five-year Agreement before the end of the 2024 season.
“The City of Langford and PFC have a longstanding, collaborative partnership, and we’re excited to see the contract signed,” said Langford Mayor, Scott Goodmanson. PFC brings an array of community benefits related to economic development and social impact. Council recognizes this and greatly values Pacific FC’s presence, and contribution to the community. We remain committed to collaborating with Pacific FC to see them play in Langford for many years to come. Langford is Trident territory, and we look forward to cheering on PFC throughout the 2024 season and beyond.”
“Langford is our home, and we look forward to welcoming our fans to Starlight Stadium for our sixth season in the Canadian Premier League,” said Paul Beirne, Managing Director, Pacific FC. “As a club we are dedicated to continuing to use sport to make a positive impact on young people and fans of all ages on Vancouver Island.”
As part of contract negotiations, PFC requested to explore alternate recreational uses for the Indoor Training Facility (ITF) in collaboration with the City. The ITF was built in 2019, on City owned land, developed as part of a partnership agreement with PFC for the benefit of youth soccer development, and wider community uses. In return PFC received use of the land for a nominal fee of $1.00 per year. The ITF is coupled with the Stadium Use Agreement to ensure the team remains in Langford for at least 10-years and provides a way to recoup some of the $2 million investment contributed to the facility by the City.
The ITF review will consider wider community recreation opportunities, gaps, and needs. This review process aligns with the upcoming Parks, Recreation and Trails Master Plan, as identified in the Council Strategic Plan. The Plan will provide a framework for decisions related to park acquisition, development and management, accessibility, and infrastructure, along with associated timelines and required budgets. The public will have various opportunities to contribute ideas which will help inform the final strategy. The City encourages residents to register for notifications and updates on City projects and public engagement opportunities at LetsChatLangford.ca
In addition to exploring options for the ITF, over the coming months staff will explore opportunities and costs associated with the ultimate Stadium expansion, including a potential referendum, if a five-year deal is signed by the fall.
The City invites the community to cheer on PFC at the season opener game this Saturday, April13, at 4p.m. at Starlight Stadium in Langford.
MEDIA CONTACT:
City of Langford
Donna Petrie
Senior Manager Communications & Economic Development
MEDIA EVENT INVITATION:
Sneak Peak Media Lunch to Taste Test New Fare at Starlight Stadium
Media are invited to Starlight Stadium to kick off the 2024 Canadian Premier League season with Pacific FC and City of Langford representatives in advance of the home opener on Saturday, April 13, 4 pm versus HFX Wanderers. Media will hear updates on what fans can expect for the season including: new seating options, a VIP section, half time games, and new sponsors.
Chef Branko Mustafovic, of Collective Catering, food providers for Starlight Stadium, will be sharing samples of the new food items on this season’s menu. Media and special guests will be able to weigh in on three different versions of a brand new ‘Trident Burger’ in a blind taste test. The burger that receives the most votes will be served at Starlight Stadium throughout the season.
When: Thursday, April 11, 12:30 pm – 1:15 pm
Where: Starlight Stadium, City of Langford suite (5/6). Access available via 3024 Glen Lake Road.
Who:
- Scott Goodman, Mayor of Langford and Langford Council
- Branko Mustafovic, Chef, Collective Catering
- Paul Beirne, Managing Director, Pacific FC
- James Merriman & Armando Sa, Head and Assistant Coaches, Pacific FC
- Josh Heard & Thomas Meilleur-Giguere, Captain and players, Pacific FC
- Stewie the Starfish
Event details: Short speaking program followed by a tasting of the Trident Burger. Interview opportunities to follow. *Photos and video will be available to media following the event.
Stay tuned to pacificfc.ca and follow the club on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for the latest news.