Toronto FC Academy , also known as TFC Academy , is the youth academy and development system of Canadian Major League Soccer club Toronto FC , which competes in MLS Next .
130-652: The academy has divisions from U14 to U19 and includes over 110 young players. The senior academy team is known as Toronto FC III . The TFC Academy's U-18 squad began playing in the Canadian Soccer League in 2008, with the U-16 squad competing in the CSL Reserve Division as TFC Academy II. On August 26, 2010 Doneil Henry signed a pro contract with the Toronto FC senior squad becoming
260-712: A Canadian football field with artificial turf end-zones when the Toronto Argonauts move to BMO Field in 2016 , along with hosting the Grey Cup that year . On September 11, 2020, Connecticut governor Ned Lamont announced that Toronto FC would finish their season's home matches at Pratt & Whitney Stadium in East Hartford, Connecticut , as well as during the playoffs, due to the Canadian government's response to limit cross- border travel during
390-470: A chairman . Originally new a franchisee were given the status of a playing member, and were placed on a probation for a period of three years before they were granted shareholder status as a member club with equity ownership. In 2011, the ownership structure of the league was reformed into an incorporated body as the CSL Association Inc in order to bring about a slow process of equalization to
520-606: A 1–1 draw, during which they lit a number of flares and committed vandalism. Following the game, some altercations broke out between the two supporter groups. Overwhelmed security called local police who ended the melees and made arrests, at which time a Toronto FC fan was tasered while being subdued. The first rematch back in Columbus Crew Stadium following the incident was boycotted by Toronto FC supporters in wake of restrictions imposed on them by Crew officials. The 2017 MLS Cup Eastern Conference finals were part of
650-753: A 2–2–0 record. Overall, they finished the MLS season on a 14-game winless streak and ended up in last place, with five wins and 23 points. It was announced Kevin Payne would be leaving D.C. United for the general manager position at Toronto FC on November 27, 2012. First-time coach Ryan Nelsen replaced Mariner as of January 7, 2013. On April 25, 2013, Payne signed the first young designated player in MLS, Matías Laba . On July 9, Payne controversially traded Luis Silva to D.C. United for an undisclosed amount of allocation money . The team fired Payne on September 4. Following
780-418: A 3–0 loss at Canadian Classique rivals Montreal Impact . On June 29, 2016, Toronto FC won its fifth Canadian Championship against Vancouver 2–2 on aggregate, winning on away goals . Giovinco scored a hat-trick against D.C. United, on July 23, 2016, in a 4–1 home win, surpassing De Rosario's previous all-time record as Toronto FC's top scorer by two goals to 35 goals. In October 2016, Toronto FC clinched
910-488: A Toronto FC Academy player, but did not sign a full-time contract (as of April 24, 2024): The following players signed homegrown player contracts with other teams in Major League Soccer, having had their rights traded by Toronto FC after previously being a Toronto FC Academy player: TFC Academy joined with Chile giants Colo-Colo . The Toronto FC Academy squad played their first game against opponents outside
1040-513: A compete youth structure within the CSL infrastructure with member clubs operating their academy teams in CAF. Shortly following the completion of the 2010 season, De Gironimo announced his resignation from the league citing irreconcilable differences. Additional achievements under De Gironimo term was the sponsorship agreement made with Givova which granted the company the naming rights to the league, and to
1170-658: A cost of $ 21 million to MLSE, the facility has 4 pitches in total: four full-sized grass pitches (two heated) and 1 artificial turf pitches (1 capable of being bubbled for year-round use). The 36,000 square foot facility also contains first team facilities (dressing room, hot tub, ice bath, rehabilitation pool, physiotherapy room, private dining) seven dressing rooms for the Academy teams, gym, physio and rehab facilities (separate from first team), kitchen, cafeteria, media room, classroom and offices for coaching staff. The Senior Academy side, commonly known as Toronto FC III, has played at
1300-592: A deal with the team over the transfer of England international Jermain Defoe for a reported fee of £6 million, and an Advertising Rights Agreement with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Ltd. Defoe would earn a reported £90,000 a week, making him the highest earner in MLS. These moves required the trade of Matias Laba to Vancouver to comply with MLS's maximum of three designated players per team. On February 7, 2014, Brazil national team keeper Júlio César joined on loan from Queens Park Rangers . The team started
1430-442: A decision that underscored the depth of the club's crisis. Around this time, reports had surfaced that the club was suffering an internal crisis, with a fractured locker room and a hostile culture among players and management. Bradley's departure was followed by the appointment of Terry Dunfield as interim head coach, in a position he remained in until John Herdman 's arrival as the new long-term head coach with one game remaining in
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#17327880038051560-522: A feeder system to the top tier. In 2008, a Reserve Division was formed to build a developmental structure within the CSL and provide clubs with a larger player pool, sufficient playing time for injured players to recover, and a developmental platform for novice players to transition to the professional ranks. On May 12, 2009, the CSL received conditional approval for membership with the Canadian Soccer Association (CSA). This paved
1690-402: A goalless draw after extra-time. On June 27, 2017, Toronto FC won their sixth Canadian Championship 3–2 on aggregate over Montreal, earning them a spot in the 2018 CONCACAF Champions League . On September 30, Toronto FC won their first Supporters' Shield with a 4–2 home win over New York Red Bulls to clinch top of the league with the most points that season . By doing so, they also became
1820-656: A heating and drainage system was also installed for $ 3.5 million to MLSE. In March 2012, TFC played its first-ever match in the Rogers Centre , the 49,982-seat home of Major League Baseball 's Toronto Blue Jays and former home of the Argonauts and the Toronto Raptors , hosting the LA Galaxy in the home leg of the 2011–12 CONCACAF Champions League championship round . The retractable roof stadium
1950-602: A higher level. Another effort conducted by the league was in 2003 with the opening of their domestic cup, the Open Canada Cup , to all Canadian professional and amateur clubs to provide a potential candidate for the CONCACAF Champions' Cup . The previous time a Canadian club competed in the Champions' Cup was in the 1976 CONCACAF Champions' Cup , represented by Toronto Italia in the predecessor league to
2080-592: A link between the provincial senior leagues to the USL A-League / USISL clubs, and provide opportunities for the development of youth players and referees. The intention of the league was to form regional divisions under the CPSL banner, with each divisional champion competing in a playoff format for the championship. Michael Di Biase , the CNSL president, would serve as the commissioner and OSA administrator Bill Spiers
2210-606: A member of the Eastern Conference . The team plays its home matches at BMO Field , located at Exhibition Place on Toronto's shoreline west of Downtown Toronto . Toronto FC joined MLS in 2007 as an expansion team and was the first Canadian-based franchise in the league. The first team is operated by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), which also operates the MLS Next Pro affiliate team Toronto FC II and most other professional sports franchises in
2340-538: A nine-game losing streak, setting an MLS record for the worst start to a season. Under Winter in 2012, the team's league record was 1–9–0 and in all other competitions was 3–1–4, including a fourth-straight Canadian Championship . He was replaced by Paul Mariner , but TFC continued to struggle finishing with a 4–12–8 record in league play under him. Toronto FC also failed to advance in the CONCACAF Champions League, finishing second in its group with
2470-589: A playoff spot for the second straight season. The team proceeded to defeat the Philadelphia Union at BMO Field in the Eastern Conference Knockout Round to record their first-ever playoff win and to secure entry into the first Eastern Conference Semi-final in franchise history. Toronto FC defeated New York City FC 7–0 on aggregate to reach an all-Canadian Eastern Conference finals derby against Montreal Impact. Montreal won
2600-652: A professional coaching staff. The program holds camps regionally and has held camps in Toronto, Pickering , Vaughan, Stoney Creek in Hamilton , Oakville , and Markham . The Toronto FC Juniors program is one of Toronto FC Academy's main sources for prospects alongside their network of scouts. In 2015, Toronto FC formed a partnership with the Ontario Soccer Association , with the OSA recognizing TFC as
2730-487: A record for most players used in a MLS season with 39. Despite a strong finish to the season with only two losses in their last 12 games, TFC missed the MLS playoffs for a fifth straight year. Nonetheless, they earned a win in their final group stage match of 2011–12 CONCACAF Champions League visiting the FC Dallas , securing a berth in the knockout stage versus LA Galaxy . After a 2–2 draw in Toronto before 47,658 fans at
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#17327880038052860-520: A regular starter and immediately became a fan favourite. TFC only scored two goals in the final 15 minutes of games all season (last in MLS). During the same 15-minute period, they gave up 16 goals (most in MLS), thus creating a −14 goal differential during the final 15 minutes. In the 2009 Canadian Championship , Toronto FC required a four-goal victory over the Montreal Impact in the final game of
2990-726: A study titled Image of the Game in 1995/1996, which led to plans of launching the Ontario Professional Soccer League in 1997 as a Division 3 league in the Canadian soccer league system . As the OSA failed to bring their project to fruition, they reached an agreement with the CNSL and formed an alliance to launch the Canadian Professional Soccer League (CPSL), beginning with an Ontario division in 1998. The CPSL would serve as
3120-446: A team in 2005. Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) paid US$ 10 million for the franchise. The name of the team was announced on May 11, 2006. The announcement followed an online consultation in which the public was invited to vote on the name for a limited period. The voting options were "Toronto Northmen", "Inter Toronto FC", "Toronto Reds", and "Toronto FC". MLSE's strategy in choosing "Toronto FC" following this process
3250-531: A winger on a free transfer; the contract is a four-year deal and began on July 1. Toronto FC also signed Italian defender Domenico Criscito on June 29, 2022, to a TAM deal. On July 15, 2022, they were joined by compatriot Federico Bernardeschi , who signed with Toronto FC; the contract is also a four-year deal. Both Insigne and Bernardeschi signed as designated players. Canadian internationals Doneil Henry , Mark-Anthony Kaye , and Richie Laryea were also acquired. The 2022–2023 off-season saw further overhaul of
3380-681: Is Uroš Stamatović , who has been in charge of Serbian White Eagles originally in 2012 and returned in 2019. There have been 17 head coaches who have won the CSL Championship. In addition, 13 foreign head coaches have secured the CSL championship, with 4 Canadians winning the title. Toronto FC Toronto Football Club (commonly known as Toronto FC or TFC ) is a Canadian professional soccer club based in Toronto . The club competes in Major League Soccer (MLS) as
3510-760: Is a semi-professional league for Canadian soccer clubs primarily located in the province of Ontario , and claims the history of the Canadian National Soccer League (CNSL). It is a non-FIFA league previously sanctioned by the Canadian Soccer Association (CSA), but now affiliated with the Soccer Federation of Canada (SFC). As of 2024 , it consists of six teams, all located in Ontario. The season usually runs from May to October, with most games played on
3640-537: Is no automatic promotion and relegation between the First and Second Division. Club members of the CSL vote to determine which, if any, applications for admission into the league will be permitted. The Canadian Soccer League previously organized a knock-out cup competition known as the Open Canada Cup (formerly known as the Government of Canada Open Cup for sponsorship reasons) each league season. The competition
3770-453: The 2018 CONCACAF Champions League round of 16 on February 20. After a goalless draw in the return leg against Colorado on February 27, TFC were matched up with Mexican side Tigres UANL for the quarterfinals, where they won the first leg 2–1 at home. In the return leg on March 13 in Mexico, TFC lost the match 3–2, however progressed to the semi-finals for the second time in its history since
3900-587: The 2019 Playoffs . Toronto FC progressed to the final on November 10, 2019, where they faced the Seattle Sounders for the third time in four of the then-most recent MLS Cup finals held; Toronto FC was ultimately defeated in Seattle by a score of 3–1. On February 7, 2020, Toronto FC signed Argentine Pablo Piatti as a designated player, while Michael Bradley signed a new contract below the designated player salary, while remaining as captain. Marking
4030-839: The American Professional Soccer League , which then was the highest-tier league in the United States. The remaining clubs, except for the London Lasers , joined the National Soccer League (NSL), the country's oldest and only exclusively Canadian professional league. After the addition of the Winnipeg Fury , the league changed its name to the Canadian National Soccer League (CNSL). Though
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4160-576: The COVID-19 pandemic . Likewise, Toronto FC played some of their home games in Exploria Stadium in Orlando, Florida during the 2021 season. Exploria Stadium is also home to Orlando City SC . Toronto FC's initial seasons saw TFC fans set the standard for MLS fan support, selling out its first three seasons. Referred to as the model franchise off the field by MLS commissioner Don Garber ,
4290-548: The Canadian Championship and were runners-up of the 2018 CONCACAF Champions League and the MLS Cup in 2016 and 2019 . As of 2023, the club has an estimated value of US$ 690 million, making them the sixth most valuable club behind Los Angeles FC , LA Galaxy , Atlanta United FC , New York City FC , and D.C. United , and have the highest player payroll in Major League Soccer. MLS awarded Toronto
4420-628: The Canadian Soccer Association 's representative in the CONCACAF Champions League , Toronto FC played in the inaugural Canadian Championship in 2008 competing for the Voyageurs Cup . TFC were the favourites to win the championship in its first year, but the Montreal Impact prevailed. The last-place New York Red Bulls defeated Toronto FC 5–0 in the final 2009 regular season game, leaving TFC one point out of
4550-621: The Canadian Soccer League on Tuesday June 29, 2010. The Academy tied Colo-Colo 4–4. The U16 team competed Liga MX International tournament in August 2017. Toronto FC III participated in the Dallas Cup 2018. The Toronto FC Juniors, also known as the TFC Juniors, is part of the youth academy and development system of Toronto FC. It is a curriculum based program, for players aged six to thirteen, specializing in grassroots development with
4680-665: The MLS Golden Boot , MLS MVP and MLS Newcomer of the Year Award . He was named to the MLS All-Star Game and the MLS Best XI and became the first player in MLS history to lead the league in both goals and assists in a single season. Toronto FC clinched a playoff berth on October 14, for the first time in franchise history. The team were eliminated in the knockout round of the 2015 MLS Cup Playoffs by
4810-813: The Ontario Soccer Centre in Vaughan , just north of Toronto. The new facilities include a permanent seating area with room for expansion and a new artificial playing surface. In September 2018, the U20 team left L1O and transformed into a U19 team that competes in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy (USSDA), along with U17 and U15 teams. The U16 and U14 teams will play in the Ontario Player Development League . The USSA announced on April 15, 2020 that they were ceasing operations permanently due to financial struggles brought on by
4940-513: The Rogers Centre , Toronto FC defeated the Galaxy 2–1 in Los Angeles to reach the CONCACAF Champions League semi-finals, the first Canadian team to do so. They were defeated by Mexican side Santos Laguna in the semi-finals 7–3 on aggregate. On June 7, 2012, Aron Winter resigned from the team upon refusing to be reassigned from his head coaching role after the team started the season with
5070-739: The USL First Division by fielding their farm team the Trois-Rivières Attak in the National Division. Toronto FC of the Major League Soccer (MLS), owned by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment , established a relationship with the CSL in 2008 by entering TFC Academy to the National Division and TFC Academy II to the Reserve Division. As a result, the league became associated with two of Canada's top three professional soccer franchises by providing
5200-505: The naming rights for the new stadium. It is the largest soccer-specific stadium in Canada. It is owned by the City of Toronto , while MLSE, the team's owner, operates it. Following criticism of BMO Field's use of FieldTurf and its rapid deterioration, MLSE agreed to a deal with the city to replace it with a natural grass surface in time for the 2010 MLS Season . Along with the grass,
5330-508: The 2011–12 Champions League, on away goals, following a 4–4 draw on aggregate. On April 10, TFC drew 1–1 to Club América at the Estadio Azteca in the second leg of the semi-final after a 3–1 home win on April 3 in the first leg, to advance 4–2 on aggregate to the finals for the first time in their history. After a 2–1 home loss to Guadalajara on April 17 in the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions League final, Toronto FC would win
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5460-592: The 2013 season, however in 2014 the under-20 squad (known as Toronto FC III) began competing in League1 Ontario (L1O), which is the third level of the Canadian soccer pyramid . The academy also fielded a team in the Premier Development League in the 2015–16 seasons before withdrawing. On June 27, 2013 Canada announced its 23-man squad for the upcoming 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup , the squad included Ashtone Morgan and Doneil Henry which
5590-523: The 2015 annual general meeting of team owners where restrictions on import players were lifted, and a working relationship was formed with the American Soccer League (ASL) in order to assist in areas of competition and business. A television agreement was made with Ethnic Channels Group, and beIN Sports in order to broadcast their television program, and revived their sponsorship deal with Givova in 2016. Affiliations were formed with
5720-484: The 2015 season potentially had illegal and suspicious betting activity. All 12 teams were alleged to have played in a "suspicious" game on at least three occasions. On February 2, 2016, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) announced investigations in the alleged match fixing in the CSL. As a result, the CSL cooperated with RCMP investigations and took measures to monitor all matches during
5850-505: The 2016 season. There are currently six clubs in the Canadian Soccer League. Traditionally, during the course of a league season teams usually played a balanced schedule of 18 or 22 games from April/May through October/November with the top eight ranked teams advancing to the playoffs. As of recent seasons a balanced schedule of 10 to 14 games has been played. Each match sees the winning team awarded three points , or in
5980-425: The 2018–19 off-season, on January 4, 2019, Toronto FC announced the appointment of Ali Curtis as general manager after the departure of Bezbatchenko. After failing to reach a contract agreement with the club, on January 30, 2019, Toronto FC sold Giovinco to Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal for an undisclosed fee. On March 4, 2019, Spaniard Alejandro Pozuelo signed with Toronto FC as a designated player to help fill
6110-532: The 401 Derby as well, with Toronto FC winning the series 7–5 on aggregate. Columbus Crew and Toronto FC have competed for the Trillium Cup since 2008. Although a manufactured rivalry, albeit linked by the fact that the official flower of both Ontario and Ohio is the white trillium ( Trillium grandiflorum ), the meetings have since sparked bitterness. On March 28, 2009, approximately 1,700 Toronto FC supporters travelled to Columbus Crew Stadium and witnessed
6240-576: The CNSL was primarily based in Ontario , it operated as a private league for several years after disputes with the Ontario Soccer Association (OSA). The OSA operated the Ontario Soccer League which was the top senior amateur league in the province, but Ontario was without a sanctioned professional league (as the CNSL was considered an outlaw league by the OSA). As a result, the OSA completed
6370-425: The COVID-19 pandemic. In response, MLS announced that it was creating MLS Next as a replacement elite youth player development development platform, which Toronto FC would participate in. In March 2024, it was announced that Toronto FC Academy would enter a U19 team in the League1 Ontario 's second tier Championship competition, with the ability to be promoted to the top tier Premier competition, after purchasing
6500-452: The CPSL. The league continued its selective, cautionary approach to team expansion, but witnessed a major expansion run in 2001 beyond the GTA and Ontario border to include Quebec and Ottawa franchises. The following season, it expanded to 14 clubs to include a Hamilton and another Toronto territory. Due to the increase of teams, CPSL management split the league into two conferences: Eastern and Western. After firmly establishing
6630-400: The CSA were unreasonable and coercive. The sport arbitrator forced them to reinstate sanctioning to the CSL until the next season in order for the CSA to fairly implement the Easton Report. A notable admission was made by CSA president Victor Montagliani during the SDRCC hearing, where he stated that the decision to de-sanction the CSL was not made on any alleged grounds of match fixing in
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#17327880038056760-433: The CSL Championship. Other major sponsorships included Days Inns – Canada , and a record broadcasting agreement with Rogers TV, which provided additional match coverage to the provinces of Ontario, New Brunswick , and Newfoundland and Labrador . Finally, the addition of the Montreal Impact Academy as the second MLS academy club to join the league. Former CPSL president and CSA financial director Vince Ursini returned to
6890-448: The CSL First Division with a single table structure. While the Reserve Division expanded beyond the GTA boundary, and was reorganized in 2011 into the Second Division. Where it continued its traditional support role as a reserve, and entry level division for clubs with limited financial resources to meet the standards for a First Division club. A working relationship was struck with newly formed Canadian Academy of Futbol (CAF), which cemented
7020-409: The CSL began its operation as a private league for the first time since the 1997 season in its predecessor league. They joined the newly formed Soccer Federation of Canada (SFC), which provided the private soccer entity the services of administration of players, non-playing personnel, match officials and insurance, which they no longer have any affiliation with now. Significant changes were made at
7150-405: The CSL but strictly on the decision made by the CSA board of directors to adopt a new soccer structure in Canada. On February 28, 2014, the CSA officially expelled the CSL from its membership, citing violations of rules and regulations. After failing to specify which rule violations were made and without providing a formal hearing the CSL in response filed litigation against the CSA. As a result,
7280-507: The CSL during the 2024 season: This is a list of all Championship finals played so far. The final was called Rogers Cup from 1998 to 2009. Since 2010 it has been called the Givova Cup due to sponsorship change. Notes on name changes: Since the inception of the Canadian Soccer League it has contributed in the development and supply of head coaches to the Canadian soccer system. The league as it did in its predecessor league managed to attract many prominent head coaches from abroad to provide
7410-428: The CSL was granted full membership in the CSA as a Division 3 sanctioned professional league in the Canadian soccer structure. Meanwhile, the CSL commissioner was awarded a seat on the CSA Professional Soccer Committee to further the planned expansion of the league to a fully national league with regional divisions under the CSL banner. The league was restructured by merging the International and National divisions to form
7540-443: The Canadian Championships. Toronto FC's biggest rival, CF Montréal (formerly known as Montreal Impact), joined MLS in 2012. In the years leading up to this, they emerged as fierce rivals during the Canadian Championship . The proximity of the two cities and the fact that Toronto and Montreal are long-standing rivals in the National Hockey League (NHL) contributes to these meetings being combative. Since both teams have joined MLS,
7670-453: The Canadian Soccer League expired after the 2012 season, and was renewed in 2016. As well as sponsorship for the league itself, the CSL had a number of official partners and suppliers. These partners include companies involved in food and beverage , sports-wear and equipment . Thirty-nine teams have played in the Canadian Soccer League from its inception in 1998, up to and including the 2018 season . The following six clubs contested in
7800-443: The Hawk is a female Harris's hawk employed by BMO Field falconry staff to sit perched atop the field to ward off seagulls . Originally brought to work in 2007 to prevent seagulls from attacking patrons, the hawk has become a fixture of BMO Field. She has also been employed at Molson Canadian Amphitheatre (renamed Budweiser Stage in 2018 due to a change in naming rights between the multinational breweries ) in Ontario Place to
7930-411: The MLS Cup Final for the second time in a row. On December 9, 2017, at home, Toronto FC defeated Seattle 2–0 in the MLS Cup , which was a rematch of the previous year's MLS Cup. Toronto FC became the first MLS team to complete a domestic treble with their win, as well as the first Canadian team to win the MLS Cup. Toronto FC started the 2018 season with a 2–0 away win over the Colorado Rapids in
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#17327880038058060-418: The Ontario Youth Soccer Association in order to establish a YSA Division to house the CSL Academy teams, and with the Canadian Corporate Soccer League in developing a structure of competition for the city's corporate clubs in Toronto. While reports of alleged match fixing continued with a report released on October 14, 2015, by the International Centre for Sport Security (ICSS) claiming that 42% of matches in
8190-401: The TFC Academy. On January 24, 2011, Stuart Neely the academy director announced that Toronto FC ownership approved a $ 17.6 million investment in a new training facility and planning was underway for the creation of a third academy team. After the CSA de-sanctioned the CSL, TFC Academy withdrew from CSL prior to the 2013 season. The senior academy team joined the Ontario Soccer League for
8320-417: The Trillium Cup as well, with Toronto FC winning the series 1–0 on aggregate. The official team colours include red as the primary colour, with black, grey, dark grey, and white as secondary colours. The primary uniform (jersey, shorts, and socks) is red with alternating lighter and darker horizontal bands, black sleeves with red trim, and a vertical black band below each sleeve extending the full length of
8450-423: The allegations of match fixing the CSL issued a statement stating that the league would continue to conduct the necessary steps in order to prevent any future tampering of matches. Prior to the 2013 season , the CSA informed the CSL that the league would no longer be sanctioned. CBC reported that the CSA's decision was partially based on their inability to handle the match fixing issue. The CSA later announced that
8580-427: The appointment of Jonathan Osorio as club captain and a recommitment from stars Insigne and Bernardeschi. Notable signings to begin the season included the return of Richie Laryea completed via a transfer from Nottingham Forest and the signing of Kevin Long from Birmingham . Honduran international Deybi Flores , former Newcastle player Matty Longstaff , and Sheffield youth defender Nicksoen Gomis also joined
8710-466: The case of a draw, the teams receive one point each. No points are awarded for a loss. At the end of each season, the club with the most points is crowned the regular season champion. The playoffs operate as a knockout tournament with single-match legs where the winner of the final is crowned CSL champion . Fourteen clubs have won the CSL Championship including Toronto Croatia (6 titles), York Region Shooters , and FC Continentals (3 titles each). There
8840-400: The champion. The Open Canada Cup eventually expanded to include professional and amateur teams from Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia. A notable addition was the Toronto Lynx of the USL First Division at the time the nations top tier division joining the tournament in 2006. In 2008, the CSL increased the prize money to $ 25,000, but shortly after the creation of the Canadian Championship
8970-417: The city, like the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League (NHL), Toronto Raptors of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League (CFL). In 2017 , Toronto FC won a domestic treble with the MLS Cup , Supporters' Shield and Canadian Championship , making them the first and only MLS club to ever do so. They are eight-time winners of
9100-429: The club roster, including the additions of American Matt Hedges and Norwegian Adama Diomande , and the return of Victor Vazquez . Jason Hernandez became general manager of Toronto FC. The 2023 season for Toronto FC was marked by significant challenges, both on and off the field, leading to a period of transition and change within the club. Despite a full offseason with Insigne and Bernardeschi, and other new additions,
9230-404: The club's name is the conventional initialism for association football teams across Europe and is commonly used among MLS teams to present a more authentic soccer brand. Despite a long scoreless streak to start the club's history, Toronto FC quickly began to establish itself as a club with significant fan support . The club's first win came on May 12, 2007, at BMO Field as Danny Dichio scored
9360-570: The competition to nullify the Vancouver Whitecaps ' +4 goal differential. Anything less would result in Vancouver winning the championship. Toronto FC went down 1–0 early but overwhelmed an under-strength Impact side 6–1 on the back of a hat-trick by De Rosario. Guevara added two, scoring in the 69th and 92nd minute. Chad Barrett scored the decisive goal in the 82nd minute, which gave TFC the lead over Vancouver. The unlikely victory
9490-503: The competition was disbanded. Since the establishment of the Canadian Championship, no CSL teams have participated in the tournament which determines the Canadian entry into the continental competition. The Canadian Soccer League is owned by its member clubs and managed by a board of directors made up of directors from each member club. The board of directors sets out the policy to oversee league operations and selects
9620-606: The decision was made in order to implement the James Easton Report (Rethink Management Group Report) for the adoption of a new professional soccer structure. The CSL protested the de-sanctioning and appealed to the Sport Dispute Resolution Centre of Canada (SDRCC). The sport arbitrator ruled that the CSA had the right to de-sanction the CSL, but ruled that the immediate decisions conducted by
9750-663: The experience needed in the development of coaching. Notable head coaches have included Rudolf Belin , Miroslav Buljan , Manuel Gomes , Rasim Kara , Ivan Markovic , Mladen Pralija , Dragoslav Šekularac , and Ihor Yavorskyi . While at the same time provide the opportunities to produce and develop head coaches as Bijan Azizi , Jason Bent , Jim Brennan , Nikola Budalic , Hubert Busby Jr. , Rafael Carbajal , Danny Dichio , Marc Dos Santos , Philippe Eullaffroy , Dejan Gluščević , Carmine Isacco , Goran Miscevic , Darren Tilley , and Duncan Wilde , who have gone on to higher endeavors. The league's longest-serving head coach
9880-560: The first Canadian team to win the Supporters' Shield. On October 22, the final day of the season, they played to a 2–2 away result against Atlanta United FC , where Toronto FC set a new MLS regular season points record with 69, eclipsing the 1998 LA Galaxy by one point. On November 29, 2017, Toronto FC won the Eastern Conference finals for the second time in a row, with a 1–0 aggregate win over Columbus Crew, also entering
10010-620: The first leg of the Conference Championship, 3–2 at the Olympic Stadium in Montreal on November 22. Toronto beat Montreal 5–2 in extra time in the return leg at BMO Field in Toronto on November 30, winning on an aggregated score of 7–5, making Toronto FC the first Canadian team to compete in an MLS Cup Final. On December 10, Toronto lost the final at home to Seattle Sounders FC 5–4 in penalty shoot-out following
10140-440: The first leg on a goal by Chad Barrett, and tied 2–2 in the second leg on goals by De Rosario and Barrett, qualifying for the group stage. Toronto FC won their first group stage match 2–1 against Mexican side Cruz Azul on August 17, 2010. However, the team failed to qualify for the championship round after finishing in third place behind group winners Real Salt Lake and second place Cruz Azul. On November 3, 2010, MLSE announced
10270-562: The first-ever TFC academy player to sign since the creation of the club in 2007. Three weeks following the Henry signing Toronto's first team signed forward Nicholas Lindsay becoming the second academy signing in history. In late September 2011, former defender Ashtone Morgan became the first graduate of the Toronto FC Academy to be called up to the Canadian men's national team . In 2011 there were close to 50 players enrolled in
10400-886: The franchise license formerly held by Pickering FC . However, after one season, the team once again departed the league, choosing to re-enter the team in MLS Next , following the launch of a new U18 division. In April 2011, Toronto FC unveiled plans to develop a state-of-art facility and soccer program that looked to develop the next generation of Canadian players through coaching, training, technology, equipment and support. Construction began in May 2011 and in June 2012, TFC academy moved to their new BMO Training Ground on 14 acres of land in Downsview Park, located in North York . Built at
10530-570: The governing body in 2008. The outcome of the reforms witnessed a 50% increase in match attendance particularly in the GTA with the ethnic based teams attracting the most attention. Fan support would continue to increase for several seasons, with the Serbian White Eagles FC and Trois-Rivières Attak averaging the most. Media coverage was further increased after an arrangement made with Toronto Community News , which provided coverage to
10660-485: The hiring of former German international and coach Jürgen Klinsmann , and his California-based company, SoccerSolutions, to fix the team's game. Over the next six months, Klinsmann assessed the team, identifying a playing style, and recommended a candidate for the director of soccer position. On January 6, 2011, the new management team for Toronto FC was announced. Aron Winter was hired as head coach with his compatriot Bob de Klerk named first assistant coach. Paul Mariner
10790-574: The hopes of forming a Canadian first and second division domestic league. Meanwhile, the CPSL continued in its original mission of providing opportunities to players to a higher platform by striking an agreement with the Toronto Lynx of the USL A-League. The player agreement deal provided the Lynx access to use any CPSL talent upon request, which provided the players the opportunity to play at
10920-504: The interim title. Toronto FC finished the season in second-last place, and on November 22, 2021, Curtis left his post as general manager. Two days later, Bob Bradley (father of Toronto FC captain Michael Bradley ) was announced as the head coach replacement for Pérez, and in the same announcement, Bob Bradley was also named sporting director. On January 8, 2022, Italian international Lorenzo Insigne signed with Toronto FC as
11050-403: The jersey. The secondary uniform includes white jerseys with a large red horizontal band below a smaller blue band across the chest with blue and red trim, white socks with blue trim, and with either red or blue shorts (the choice of which is subject to the opponent's uniform). In its first three seasons, Toronto FC's secondary uniform colours were light and dark grey. In the following four seasons,
11180-528: The league and its member clubs. Rogers TV made additional broadcasting commitments to expand their media coverage to a full season. Several milestones were made in the Open Canada Cup tournament with the participation of the Toronto Lynx in 2006, and the expansion of the tournament to include teams from British Columbia in 2007. The CSL began an affiliation in 2007 with the Montreal Impact of
11310-556: The league earned major sponsorship deals from Primus Canada , and the Government of Canada , which served as the sole sponsor for the CPSL Rookie of the Year Award. In 2001, the CSA originally initiated a task force named the Canadian United Soccer League (CUSL), which formed a working partnership with the CPSL and the Canadian franchises in the USL A-League to forge a unified professional structure in
11440-562: The league within the Ontario soccer structure, Ursini resigned from his position in order to fully delegate his time to his OSA obligations, and to seek election to the CSA board of directors. Former CPSL management consultant Cary Kaplan with previous experience as president of the Hamilton Bulldogs in the American Hockey League was named his successor in the capacity of a commissioner . One of his first acts
11570-492: The name was made to the Canadian Soccer League (CSL), with a new set of rules, regulations, and constitution established. The schedule format was changed including the relationship between the OSA and the Quebec Soccer Federation (QSF) was revised with the CSL by the signing of a "Memorandum of Understanding", which provided the CSL with an increased level of autonomy and eventual operational independence from
11700-570: The organization as the successor to De Gironimo in 2011. The league's membership under Ursini's administration expanded to record amount of 28 teams in 2012 with 16 in the First Division and 12 in the Second Division. Their media coverage was broaden with a television agreement with CogecoTV , and the reintroduction of their weekly television program was picked up by Rogers TV. On September 12, 2012, accounts of alleged match-fixing
11830-518: The playoffs. Despite bringing in some high-profile talent, the Reds could not seem to field a consistent side. Dwayne De Rosario became an immediate scoring influence and Amado Guevara was a strong playmaker and established MLS veteran, but the Honduran's future at the Canadian team seemed murky with looming 2010 FIFA World Cup duties. Rookie goalkeeper Stefan Frei quickly replaced Greg Sutton as
11960-473: The prominent challengers in the early years, a change occurred in 2000 within the administration field of the league with Vince Ursini being appointed the president. The league was able to acquire a television deal with Rogers TV , which enabled the launch of its own television program, the CPSL Soccer Show, which garnered the highest ratings of Sunday programs shown on the channel. As a result,
12090-458: The removal of Payne, recently appointed MLSE president Tim Leiweke reasoned that there were philosophical differences between them as to how Toronto FC should move forward. Leiweke, who brought David Beckham to the LA Galaxy in early 2007, quickly revealed that he intended to make TFC more competitive with similarly ambitious, blockbuster signings. On September 20, Toronto FC announced that
12220-403: The return away leg 2–1 on April 25, leading to a draw on aggregate, but lost 4–2 in the penalty shootout. Later in the season, on September 19, Toronto FC played against Tigres UANL in the inaugural Campeones Cup , losing the match 3–1 at home. They failed to qualify for the playoffs after a 2–1 home loss against Vancouver on October 6, 2018, with three games left to play in the season. During
12350-804: The return of soccer after its suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic , during the MLS is Back Tournament at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Bay Lake, Florida , Toronto FC reached the round of 16, but they lost 3–1 to New York City FC on July 16, 2020. Following the MLS is Back Tournament, due to Canadian government restrictions relating to the COVID-19 pandemic, Toronto FC played its six regular-season home matches at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut . On December 1, 2020, Vanney stepped down as head coach and technical director after seven years with
12480-600: The rivalry has intensified and the matches have become a Canadian soccer classic, nicknamed the 401 Derby after Ontario Highway 401 , a freeway that indirectly links the two cities (alongside Quebec Autoroute 20 ). The rivalry is also known as the Canadian Classique. On March 16, 2013, Toronto FC fans set an MLS record for travelling support with 3,200 away fans in Montreal to watch TFC lose 2–1, eclipsing their own record of 2,400 at Columbus Crew in 2008. The 2016 MLS Cup Eastern Conference finals were part of
12610-575: The roster to reflect the U.S. Hall of Fame's plan to play a tough, defensive style. Despite scoring troubles, TFC played well at the start, going undefeated in seven games at one time. The team struggled following the World Cup break . Sensing problems in the locker room and to try to salvage the season, MLSE dismissed both Johnston and Preki on September 14, naming Earl Cochrane interim director of soccer and Nick Dasovic interim coach. The players responded to Dasovic's more open flexible style, but it
12740-401: The season. This era was characterized by introspection within the club, with a focus on developing a cohesive team strategy, fostering a culture of accountability, and leveraging the club's youth talent to build a competitive squad for the future. During this season, young talent such as Kobe Franklin and Deandre Kerr emerged as regular contributors to the team. Toronto FC's 2024 roster saw
12870-616: The semi-professional (Division III) level. The team currently is a U19 team, after having previously been a U20 team The following players have joined the Toronto FC first team on homegrown player contracts after having previously been a Toronto FC Academy player (players in bold are currently part of the team) (as of May 21, 2024): The following players have signed for the Toronto FC first team on short-term loan contracts for MLS or Canadian Championship matches (players in bold are currently Toronto FC II players), after having been
13000-612: The south to prevent seagulls from attacking concert-goers since the 1990s. While no official word has come from the club about her status, fans and the media consider her the mascot of the team. The club shares a soccer rivalry with several clubs in the MLS, including the Columbus Crew and CF Montréal . Toronto FC also have a rivalry with the other Canadian team, the Vancouver Whitecaps FC . CF Montréal and Vancouver Whitecaps FC compete with Toronto FC in
13130-507: The start of the 2010 MLS Season . A$ 120 million renovation to the stadium was officially announced September 23, 2014. It included a second tier of seating that added 8,400 seats, raising the capacity of the stadium to 30,991. New suites, washrooms, concourse and a roof were added. Construction began in September 2014 and would be divided into two phases; the completion of the project was set for May 2016. The expansion would accommodate
13260-591: The status of teams, while compensating the equity owners who had heavily invested in league throughout the years The current chairman is Vincent Ursini, appointed in March 2011, and the league administrator is Pino Jazbec with Stan Adamson as Director of Media. Previously the chairman also had the function of a commissioner with Michael Di Biase, Cary Kaplan, and Domenic Di Gironimo serving in that capacity. The Canadian Soccer League originally sold title sponsorship rights to Givova from 2010 to 2012. The Givova deal with
13390-622: The team capped season tickets at 17,000 for the 2014 season. Toronto FC's recognized supporters' groups are the Red Patch Boys , U-Sector , Kings in the North, Tribal Rhythm Nation and Original 109. On August 23, 2018, Toronto FC permanently terminated Inebriatti's supporter status for a fire they started at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa during their match-up with Toronto FC in the Canadian Championship earlier that year on July 18. Bitchy
13520-524: The team struggled to find consistency and form, culminating in a season of disappointing results that saw Toronto FC languishing near the bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference standings. Injuries marred the team, with new signings Diomande, Alonso Coello , and Raoul Petretta notably requiring longer-term recoveries. The persistent underperformance led to the dismissal of Bob Bradley in June 2023, after managing only one win in eleven games,
13650-451: The team was credited for starting "MLS 2.0" for their embrace of supporters' culture. Lack of on-field success caused frustration among the fanbase, spurring fan protests against ownership. In response, MLSE acknowledged the lack of quality on the on-field product, lowering ticket prices in 2013 to 2007 levels. Following a resurgence of interest in the team due to the major signings of designated players Jermain Defoe and Michael Bradley ,
13780-519: The team won the most games in its history, it failed to reach the playoffs for the eighth consecutive year. After completing only 11 months of his four-year contract with TFC, Defoe joined Premier League club Sunderland on January 16, 2015. On the same day, Toronto received American Jozy Altidore from Sunderland to complete the other half of the player swap. Three days later, the team signed Italian international Sebastian Giovinco from Juventus on an annual salary of $ 7 million. Michael Bradley
13910-471: The team wore white secondary uniforms, whereas in 2014, the secondary uniforms were changed to onyx. As with all MLS teams, the uniforms are produced by Adidas . In 2013 and 2014, a shadow-print maple leaf was featured on Toronto FC's primary jerseys. Since the team's formation in 2007, it has been sponsored by the Bank of Montreal (BMO). The sponsorship was worth $ 1–1.5 million per season, but in 2010,
14040-533: The team's first goal in the 24th minute of a 3–1 home win over the Chicago Fire . Though TFC slipped to the bottom of the MLS standings with a record of 6–17–7 , the team built a foundation as the first Canadian team in MLS. In the club's second season in 2008 , Toronto hosted the 2008 MLS All-Star Game . The club finished last in the Eastern Conference with a record of 9–13–8, but the enthusiastic fan base continued to fill BMO Field to capacity. To determine
14170-427: The team, calling it a "personal family decision". He left as the team's longest-tenured and best-record coach. Chris Armas , the former New York Red Bulls coach, was appointed to the role on January 13, 2021. During the 2021 season, Toronto FC played some of their home games in Exploria Stadium in Orlando, Florida , also home to Orlando City SC . After a poor run in the early season, which reached its nadir with
14300-460: The team. The club secured a 0–0 result away against FC Cincinnati in its first game of the season, with notable performances by Sean Johnson, who secured his 100th MLS shutout, and debutant Flores. Before the 2007 Major League Soccer season , construction was completed on a new stadium at Exhibition Place in Toronto at a cost of $ 62.5 million. On September 20, 2006, MLS's official website announced that BMO Financial Group had purchased
14430-508: The top of the pyramid in Ontario with respect to the player pathway for elite men's soccer. Following this, TFC began to form regional partnerships with various youth clubs. TFC Academy has made regional partnerships with local youth clubs in other Ontario cities re-branding under the TFC name - Windsor TFC , London TFC, and Ottawa TFC. Windsor TFC was the re-branded name from Windsor Stars SC, whose senior team plays in League1 Ontario .; London TFC
14560-517: The vacant general manager position had been filled by Tim Bezbatchenko . Under Bezbatchenko, Toronto FC made several high-profile moves during the 2013–14 off season. Among the transfers were MLS veterans Justin Morrow and Jackson ; Brasileiro star Gilberto , United States international Michael Bradley of A.S. Roma , and the return of Toronto FC leading goal scorer De Rosario. On January 10, 2014, Tottenham Hotspur announced they had agreed
14690-485: The void left by the recently departed Sebastian Giovinco and compatriot Víctor Vázquez in the creative midfield role. Pozuelo inherited the number ten shirt , which had previously been worn by the Italian. On June 26, 2019, Japanese forward Tsubasa Endoh scored the fastest goal in TFC history, only 29 seconds into the game against Atlanta United FC . After missing the playoffs the previous season, they qualified for
14820-455: The way for the CSL to create the effective player developmental system needed to provide the missing link between the top provincial amateur level to the MLS/USL on a national level. After 4 + 1 ⁄ 2 years as commissioner, Kaplan resigned following the 2009 season in order to devote more time to his sports marketing company with Domenic Di Gironimo hired as his replacement. In 2010,
14950-496: The weekend followed by a playoff format to determine the overall champion. The league was formed in 1998 as the Canadian Professional Soccer League ( CPSL ) by an alliance forged by the Ontario Soccer Association (OSA) with the Canadian National Soccer League. The new league was meant to provide opportunities for the development of players, coaches, and referees. The intention of the alliance
15080-409: The worst loss in club history on July 3, Armas was fired and replaced by interim coach Javier Pérez . Toronto played their first game back at BMO Field on July 17, 2021, against Orlando City SC with 7,000 in attendance. It was the first sporting event in Ontario since COVID-19 restrictions were implemented. On August 9, Pérez was officially named the head coach for the remainder of the season, removing
15210-593: The year with promise, but much like 2010, they floundered after the World Cup break. On August 31, Nelsen was fired by Bezbatchenko a day after a 0–3 defeat to the New England Revolution at BMO field, where Nelsen criticized Bezbatchenko in his post-match press conference for putting the players under needless pressure in the media. The head coaching position was filled by former American international and Chivas USA assistant, Greg Vanney . Although
15340-525: Was also the venue for a friendly against Liverpool of the English Premier League in July of that year and their only MLS home match in Toronto away from BMO Field, the 2013 home opener against Sporting Kansas City on March 9, 2013, with a then-record Toronto FC home MLS attendance of 25,991. Expansion to the north end that cost $ 2 million, added 1,249 seats and was completed for
15470-424: Was based on two reasons. Firstly, over 40 percent of the online vote supported the simple Toronto FC name during the consultation; secondly, MLSE hoped that the fairly generic name would help the new club earn a more organic nickname from the Toronto fans rather than having one imposed upon the team. The team has been called "TFC" and "the Reds" by the media, the team, and the fans . The "FC" ("Football Club") in
15600-597: Was dubbed by fans and media as the " Miracle in Montreal ". Toronto FC subsequently participated in the 2009–10 CONCACAF Champions League , but lost 1–0 on aggregate to the Puerto Rico Islanders in the preliminary round of the tournament. After failing to qualify on the final day of the 2009 campaign, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment said anything short of a playoff spot in 2010 would be unacceptable. With that directive, former director of soccer Mo Johnston hired Preki and made wholesale changes to
15730-533: Was named as director of soccer. Winter was selected to bring the Ajax culture, possession and 4–3–3 system to Toronto FC. Management made wholesale changes to the roster before and during the 2011 season, trading numerous players and eventually their captain and Toronto native De Rosario. Toronto FC used its remaining two designated player slots on two notable European players, signing Torsten Frings and Danny Koevermans to 2.5-year contracts. The team went on to set
15860-618: Was named league chairman. The founding members included four CNSL clubs London City , North York Astros , St. Catharines Wolves , Toronto Croatia , and four of the OPSL teams: Glen Shields , Mississauga Eagles , Toronto Olympians , and York Region Shooters . In the initial years of the CPSL, the on-field performance was dominated by Toronto Olympians and Ottawa Wizards , who had the financial support from corporations such as Coffee Time , and Oz Optics Ltd. While St. Catharines, and Toronto Croatia – two well established former CNSL clubs – were
15990-408: Was named team captain in 2015, following the retirement of Steven Caldwell , and would become the longest-serving captain of the club. On September 26, 2015, Giovinco scored and assisted in a 3–2 win over Chicago, putting him on 35 points for the season, breaking Chris Wondolowski 's league record. Giovinco's totals of 22 goals and 16 assists, for 38 total points, made him the first TFC player to win
16120-402: Was not enough as the club was eliminated from playoff contention with three games left in the season. Off-field issues with season-seat holders over the 2011 season ticket package added to the fans' frustrations, forcing MLSE to hold a series of town hall meetings . Toronto FC played Honduran side C.D. Motagua in the preliminary round of the 2010–11 CONCACAF Champions League . TFC won 1–0 in
16250-524: Was originally formed in 1998 known as the League Cup, and was exclusively open only to CPSL clubs. In 2003, the CPSL opened the League Cup to all Canadian professional and amateur clubs in order to provide a potential Canadian candidate to the CONCACAF Champions' Cup . The competition was renamed with the Government of Canada as the initial title sponsorship, and the inclusion of a $ 10,000 reward for
16380-810: Was re-branded from FC London , whose senior team retained their name in L1O; Ottawa TFC was formed from a merger of Cumberland United SC and Capital United SC. In 2021, the club announced three new regional partners: Kitchener TFC, Hamilton TFC, and DeRo TFC. Kitchener TFC rebranded from Kitchener SC, Hamilton TFC rebranded from Mount Hamilton Youth SC (Mount Hamilton is also part of the Hamilton United group that competes in League1 Ontario and DeRo TFC rebranded from DeRo United Futbol Academy . Canadian Soccer League The Canadian Soccer League ( CSL ; French : Ligue canadienne de soccer — LCS )
16510-525: Was reported by the CBC that a CSL game between the Trois-Rivières Attak and Toronto Croatia held in September 2009 was fixed. The report, which aired on the news program The National , revealed court documents showing that €15,000 ($ 18,000 CDN) in bribes were paid to several players on Toronto Croatia. The game was part of a larger match-fixing scandal in Europe in which six people were convicted. In response to
16640-510: Was the creation of a Women's Canada Cup, as a preliminary tournament launched in the hopes of creating a future professional domestic league for women. In 2006, Kaplan began a series of reforms beginning with the creation of the National and International Division to replace the conference system . The intention of the reforms was to re-kindle the spirit of the CNSL days by promoting ethnic rivalries to increase match attendance. A rebranding of
16770-413: Was the first time TFC academy graduates had made a senior international tournament roster. In November 2014, Toronto FC announced the establishment of their own team to play in the minor professional USL Pro , which serves as a reserve team for TFC and a bridge between the Academy. Toronto FC became the sixth MLS club to own a USL Pro team. The team, which was named Toronto FC II , began play in 2015 at
16900-517: Was to form regional divisions across the nation under the CPSL banner with each divisional champion competing in a playoff format for the championship . After the demise of the Canadian Soccer League (CSL) in 1992, Canada was without a Division 1 national professional league. The Canadian soccer landscape was fractured into several different foreign and regional senior leagues. When the CSL ceased operations, three of their clubs (the Vancouver Whitecaps , Toronto Blizzard , and Montreal Supra ) joined
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