Halifax Wanderers vs Ipswich Town Exhibition Match at CBU

Cape Breton University is proud to host an exhibition match between the development teams of the Halifax Wanderers (Canadian Professional League) and the Ipswich Town Football Club (English Premier League) of Ipswich, England, on July 17, 2024. The match will be held at 7:00pm at the Ness Timmons Soccer Field at CBU.

“We are thrilled to be hosting both the Wanderers and Ipswich on our beautiful campus here in Cape Breton,” says CBU President and Vice-Chancellor, David C. Dingwall. “Football, or soccer as we know it, has a way of bringing community together. We hope this unique event will do just that, and we look forward to hosting more events of this nature in the future.”

“We are delighted to be able to work with the Halifax Wanderers F.C. as both of our organizations continue to elevate the game of soccer in Nova Scotia and beyond,” says John Ryan, Director of Athletics and Recreation. “Many of our former players have been able to continue to play the sport that they love with the Wanderers.”

For many years, Cape Breton University and the Halifax Wanderers have shared a unique connection, with many CBU Capers being drafted by, and having rewarding careers with, the Wanderers. The relationship has fostered deep community ties, leading to province-wide support for both teams and exciting opportunities to partner on events such as the exhibition match.

“We’re looking forward to bringing our Halifax Wanderers U21 squad to Sydney and the home of the CBU Capers this July,” says Halifax Wanderers Sporting Director, Matt Fegan. “We’ve always enjoyed a solid working relationship with Coach Dean Morley and his staff, to identify and recruit several former Capers ready to make the next step to the professional game in the Canadian Premier League. It’s a credit to the excellent Capers program that continues to thrive each season.”

The Halifax Wanderers are no strangers to Cape Breton Island, but Cape Bretoners may not be as familiar with the visiting Ipswich Town team. Ipswich Town F.C. was originally founded on October 16, 1878, and turned professional in 1936. Throughout their history, Ipswich Town has consistently finished in the top six of its division, having won the Football Association Challenge (FA) Cup in 1978 and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Cup in 1981. The team has defeated globally known and legendary teams like Real Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan, Lazio and Barcelona.

Cape Breton University is honoured to host such an incredible showcase of talent and athleticism. Hopefully, the Cape Breton community will show both teams the Island hospitality they’re known for and fill the stands with lively energy and cheers. CBU looks forward to seeing that same excitement carry through to the next Capers season starting this September.

“This is a brilliant opportunity for our Cape Breton soccer community to come together and show support for our province’s professional club,” says CBU Capers Head Coach, Dean Morley. “They’ll get the chance to watch some excellent young players from a Premier League Academy club, and see some of our current CBU stars in action for the Wanderers Development team. This game will inspire many young footballers in Cape Breton!”

Tickets for the game are $20 for adults and $10 for youth. For event details or to purchase your tickets today, visit cbu.ca/events. The match will also be available via livestream at cbu.ca/wanderers.