Challenge Trophy Schedule Confirmed

With all 10 teams qualified, the Canadian Soccer Association has confirmed the schedule for the 2009 BMO National Championships Challenge Trophy competition. The annual senior men's national competition runs this 7-12 October in Saskatoon, SK. The men's matches will take place at Sasktel Soccer Centre and Umea Soccer Field in conjunction with the women's Jubilee Trophy competition matches.

"It is a tremendous achievement to represent your province or territory at the BMO National Club Championships," said Canadian Soccer Association President Dr. Dominic Maestracci. "They are all accomplished athletes, coaches, and referees. In addition to competing and officiating at an elite level, they commit to excellence and embody the ideals of fair play, integrity, and sportsmanship."

"We are delighted to be the Challenge Trophy's lead sponsor in the beautiful game of soccer," said Ken Segboer, Vice President, Saskatchewan, BMO Bank of Montreal.

The 10 teams are split into two groups. Group A features Alberta's Calgary Callies, British Columbia's West Van FC, Ontario's Real Toronto, Manitoba's Hellas SC, and Saskatchewan's Huskie Alumni. Group B features Québec's Royal de Beauport, Prince Edward Island's Avondale Islanders, Nova Scotia's Halifax City, Newfoundland Labrador's Holy Cross, and Yukon Territories' Yukon Selects.

Of note, the defending champion Calgary Callies is vying for a third-straight Challenge Trophy victory. Six clubs have gone back-to-back, but no team has ever won three in a row.

Along with last year's champion, three other clubs have returned: Avondale Islanders (bronze in 2008), Halifax City (sixth in 2008) and Hellas SC (eighth in 2008). One-time champion Holy Cross - the only Newfoundland Labrador team to win it all in 1988 - is back for the first time in 15 years.

Article courtesy of canadasoccer.com.

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