The 2022 U SPORTS Vanier Cup will be played at Western Alumni Stadium in November 2022, as London and Wester University will host the national championship football game for the first time.
“It’s just wonderful to be hosting the Vanier Cup,” said Western University President Alan Shepard. “We’re excited for the opportunity to celebrate Western’s proud football tradition, showcase all the great things our university and city have to offer, and welcome fans from near and far to the newly renovated Western Alumni Stadium.”
The 2022 Vanier Cup partnership is an extension of a collaboration between U SPORTS, Western University, and The City of London that will also see the City host the 2023 FISU World University Rowing Championships next July.
“U SPORTS is thrilled to partner with the City of London, Tourism London and Western University to present this 57th edition of the Vanier Cup,” said Lisette Johnson-Stapley, U SPORTS Chief Sport Officer. “London and Western offer the participating teams and fans outstanding accommodations, restaurants and sports facilities. We know guests travelling to the 2022 Vanier Cup will have a memorable experience, and we can’t wait for kickoff on Nov. 26!”
“Hosting the Vanier Cup is a proud moment for Western and the Western Mustangs, but also a recognition of the incredible support we receive from our Mustangs Alumni, the London Beefeaters, the Junior Mustangs, our sponsors, and the London community,” said Christine Stapleton, Director of Sports & Recreation at Western. “Partnering with U SPORTS and Tourism London, we will all work together to make this a fantastic event for our entire community.”
The Mustangs Football team is coming off a 2021 season where they returned to action after the pandemic and won the 56th Vanier Cup, defeating the Saskatchewan Huskies 27-21 in Quebec City last December.
“Hosting an event of this calibre continues to highlight London as a premier sport hosting destination in Canada while also providing a significant economic impact to our community,” said Zanth Jarvis, Director of Sport Tourism with Tourism London. “We look forward to showcasing London’s history and passion for football as we welcome fans for the 2022 Vanier Cup.”
Said long-time Mustangs football head coach Greg Marshall: “The Vanier Cup is a great event and one of the premier athletic events in Canada. The London football community is very strong, and I believe one of the best grassroots football regions in the country. With the extensive recent upgrades to our football stadium, Western will be a great venue to host this event and ensure that it is a great experience for the participating teams.”
Additional event information, including the launch of ticket sales, can be found at VanierCup.com and WesternMustangs.ca.
Submitted by the Western Mustangs
