⚽ The wait is finally over! Atletico Ottawa is set to kick off the 2025 Canadian Premier League (CPL) season with an exciting home opener at TD Place Stadium on April 5, 2025. This isn’t just any match - it’s a special Pay What You Can event supporting the CHEO Foundation, making professional soccer accessible to everyone in the capital region.
Match Day Overview
Atletico Ottawa will face off against the Halifax Wanderers FC in what promises to be an electrifying start to the CPL season. The match kicks off at 2:00 PM, with gates opening at 1:00 PM to give fans plenty of time to soak in the pre-game atmosphere.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Atletico Ottawa vs Halifax Wanderers FC |
| Date | Saturday, April 5, 2025 |
| Kick-Off Time | 2:00 PM EDT |
| Gates Open | 1:00 PM |
| Venue | TD Place Stadium, Ottawa |
| Ticket Pricing | Pay What You Can: $5, $10, or more |
| Beneficiary | CHEO Foundation |
| Special Guest | Wally the T-Rex (Mascot) |
| Address | 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W7 |
Pay What You Can Initiative 🎫
In a groundbreaking move to make professional soccer accessible to all Ottawa families, Atletico Ottawa is offering Pay What You Can ticketing for this home opener. Fans can choose to pay $5, $10, or contribute more if they’re able, with proceeds supporting the CHEO Foundation.
“We believe soccer should be for everyone in our community. This Pay What You Can model removes financial barriers while supporting an incredible cause that helps children and families across Eastern Ontario.” - Atletico Ottawa Management
The CHEO Foundation raises funds to support CHEO, Eastern Ontario’s pediatric health-care centre, providing care to over 500,000 children and youth annually. Every dollar from ticket sales will go directly to supporting sick children and their families.
What to Expect on Match Day
Pre-Game Activities
Arrive early when gates open at 1:00 PM to enjoy the full match day experience:
- ��� Fan Zone Activities: Interactive games and entertainment for all ages
- ��� Photo Opportunities: Meet Wally the T-Rex, Atletico Ottawa’s beloved mascot
- ���️ Merchandise Stands: Get your 2025 season gear and supporter scarves
- ��� Food & Beverage: Local vendors and TD Place concessions open early
- ��� Live Entertainment: Music and performances before kick-off
The Team
Atletico Ottawa enters the 2025 CPL season with renewed energy and ambition. Under head coach leadership, the team has been training hard throughout the off-season and is ready to make their mark in the league. The roster features a mix of returning fan favorites and exciting new signings who are eager to prove themselves in front of the home crowd.
The Halifax Wanderers, one of the founding CPL clubs, will provide a challenging test in this season opener. Matches between these two teams have historically been competitive and entertaining, making this a must-see event for soccer fans.
Getting to TD Place Stadium
Public Transportation 🚌
TD Place Stadium is easily accessible via OC Transpo:
- O-Train Line 1: Take the Confederation Line to Pimisi Station, then transfer to bus routes 11, 14, or 85
- Bus Routes: Multiple routes service Bank Street, including routes 1, 7, and 405
- Match Day Service: OC Transpo typically increases service on game days
Parking 🚗
Limited parking is available at TD Place and surrounding areas:
- Lansdowne Park Parking: $10-$15 (arrive early)
- Residential Parking: Check posted signs carefully
- Alternative: Consider parking downtown and taking public transit
Cycling 🚴
Bike racks are available at TD Place for those who prefer cycling. The stadium is accessible via the Rideau Canal pathway system.
About CHEO Foundation
The CHEO Foundation’s mission is to help every child live their healthiest life. Funds raised through this match will support:
- State-of-the-art medical equipment and technology
- Leading-edge research into childhood diseases
- Family-centered care programs
- Mental health and wellness initiatives
- Emergency department enhancements
This partnership between Atletico Ottawa and CHEO Foundation exemplifies how sports can bring communities together for meaningful causes.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Atletico Ottawa matches are designed to be welcoming for families:
- ��� Kids Welcome: Children under 2 enter free when sitting on a parent’s lap
- ��� Kids Activities: Special activities for younger fans
- ��� Mascot Fun: Wally the T-Rex will be roaming the stadium for meet-and-greets
- ��� Family Sections: Designated areas for families with children
CPL Season Outlook
The 2025 CPL season represents another exciting chapter for Canadian soccer. As the league continues to grow in popularity and quality, Atletico Ottawa aims to compete for a playoff position and potentially the North Star Cup championship.
This home opener sets the tone for the entire season. A strong start in front of a passionate home crowd can provide momentum that carries through the campaign. With the Pay What You Can initiative, the club is hoping for a packed stadium and an atmosphere that will inspire the players.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I purchase Pay What You Can tickets? A: Tickets are available online through the Atletico Ottawa website and at the TD Place box office on match day (subject to availability).
Q: Is there a limit to how many tickets I can purchase? A: Check the Atletico Ottawa website for current purchase limits to ensure fair access for all fans.
Q: What time should we arrive? A: Gates open at 1:00 PM. Arriving early ensures you don’t miss pre-game activities and allows time to find your seats before kick-off at 2:00 PM.
Q: Are bags allowed in the stadium? A: TD Place has a bag policy. Small bags and clear bags are typically permitted, but check the venue’s website for current regulations.
Q: Will there be food available for purchase? A: Yes, TD Place has multiple concession stands offering a variety of food and beverages.
Q: Is the stadium accessible? A: Yes, TD Place Stadium is fully accessible with wheelchair seating available. Contact the box office in advance for accessibility services.
Q: What happens if it rains? A: The match will proceed rain or shine. Dress appropriately for outdoor weather conditions.
Q: Can I bring a camera? A: Personal cameras are generally allowed, but professional equipment may be restricted. Check stadium policy before arrival.
Make It a Lansdowne Day
While you’re at TD Place, explore the Lansdowne Park area:
- ���️ Shopping: Explore retail shops and boutiques
- ���️ Dining: Restaurants and cafes throughout the complex
- ��� Entertainment: Landmark Cinemas for post-match movies
- ��� Whole Foods Market: Grocery shopping and prepared foods
- ��� Aberdeen Pavilion: Historic building and farmers’ market venue
Learn more about things to do in the area at ViaOttawa.ca.
Beyond the Home Opener
This match is just the beginning of an exciting CPL season. Atletico Ottawa will host multiple home games throughout the spring and summer at TD Place. Consider becoming a season ticket holder to enjoy all the action and support Ottawa’s professional soccer team.
For other Ottawa events and activities, visit our complete events calendar at ViaOttawa.ca.
Sources
- Atletico Ottawa Official Website - Match Schedule and Ticketing Information
- Canadian Premier League - 2025 Season Information
- CHEO Foundation - Charitable Partnership Details
- TD Place Stadium - Venue Information and Accessibility
- OC Transpo - Public Transportation Routes and Schedules
Don’t miss this opportunity to support both professional soccer in Ottawa and the CHEO Foundation. Gather your friends and family, wear your Atletico Ottawa colors, and be part of an incredible afternoon of community spirit and sporting excellence. See you at TD Place on April 5! ⚽🎉
For more Ottawa events and activities, visit ViaOttawa.ca - your guide to everything happening in the nation’s capital.
