In the heart of Hamilton, Ontario, a new soccer dynasty has emerged in recent years. Forge FC, founded in 2017 and a founding member of the Canadian Premier League (CPL), has quickly become the league’s gold standard. With multiple championships, standout players, and a consistent presence on the continental stage, Forge FC at F168VIP has reshaped the landscape of Canadian soccer. The club’s journey is a story of resilience, unity, and an iron-willed desire for glory.
A Strong Foundation in the Steel City
Forge FC made its professional debut in 2019, when the Canadian Premier League officially kicked off. The club is based at Tim Hortons Field, a multi-purpose stadium with a capacity of over 23,000. True to Hamilton’s working-class roots and industrial legacy, Forge FC embodies the grit and strength of its community.
The club’s name — “Forge” — symbolizes the forging of steel, unity, and character, which perfectly reflects its identity on the pitch.
Instant Impact and Dominance
From the inaugural CPL season, Forge FC set the tone. Under head coach Bobby Smyrniotis, the team implemented a tactical, possession-based style of play that stood out in the league. The 2019 season ended with Forge FC being crowned the first-ever CPL champions, defeating Cavalry FC in the two-legged final.
Led by key players like Tristan Borges, who won the Golden Boot and Player of the Year, Forge FC scored a total of 46 goals across the Spring, Fall, and Finals stages in 2019. Their attacking flair and defensive organization earned them praise both domestically and internationally.
A Legacy of Championships
Success didn’t stop in the debut season. Forge FC continued to dominate the CPL:
- 🏆 CPL Champions 2019
- 🏆 CPL Champions 2020
- 🥈 CPL Finalists 2021
- 🏆 CPL Champions 2022
- 🏆 CPL Champions 2023
That’s four CPL titles in five seasons, making Forge FC the most decorated team in Canadian Premier League history. Their consistent playoff performances and clutch mentality have turned them into the team everyone else measures themselves against.
Forge FC in Numbers: Goals and Greatness
As of mid-2025, Forge FC has scored over 180 goals in CPL regular season play, and 230+ goals across all competitions, including playoffs, Canadian Championship matches, and continental tournaments.
Top scorers have included:
- Tristan Borges – A playmaker and finisher, Borges has been a driving force with 30+ goals for the club.
- Kyle Bekker – The club captain, known for his leadership and creativity, has contributed double-digit goals and assists.
- Woobens Pacius – A rising star in Canadian soccer with a growing goal tally.
Forge’s ability to combine youth development, experienced leadership, and tactical depth has been key to their scoring success.
International Recognition
Forge FC has also become Canada’s representative on the international stage. They have competed in:
- CONCACAF League (multiple appearances)
- CONCACAF Champions Cup (2022, 2024)
Their performances have helped raise the profile of Canadian club soccer. In 2021, Forge made it to the semifinals of the CONCACAF League — an incredible achievement that brought attention from across North and Central America.
A Club Forged in Glory
In just a few years, Forge FC has:
- 🏆 Won 4 Canadian Premier League titles
- ⚽ Scored over 230 total goals
- 🌍 Represented Canada internationally
- 💪 Developed into a model franchise for CPL
Their success has not only brought pride to Hamilton but has elevated the status of the Canadian Premier League as a whole.
With a talented squad, loyal fan base known as the Barton St. Battalion, and a clear vision for the future, Forge FC is more than a club — it’s a symbol of Canadian soccer’s rise. As they continue to build their legacy, one thing is certain: the Iron Giants are here to stay.
