More than a pitch: Soccer club eyes sports dome
May 27, 2026 at 11:17 AM
Baseball during a downpour, soccer in a snowstorm, cricket year round.
If a proposal by the Greater Fort Erie Youth Soccer Club gets greenlit, all of those could become a reality in the near future. Representatives from the club presented their vision to councillors at the May 25 meeting, billing a sports dome as a recreation facility for all.
“This dome isn’t just a field, it’s a community hub,” said John Sansano, the club’s president.
Following years of significant growth–thanks in large part to lighting and irrigation infrastructure installed 15 years ago–the club is looking to take the next step. Sansano said a priority has been to strengthen its travel program, but a lack of training and tryout time, along with weather related cancellations, makes it a challenge.
“These aren’t just inconveniences, they directly impact our player retention and our ability to compete,” he said.
As they investigated solutions, they discovered they’re not alone.
“This is not a soccer problem,” said Sansano. “Across the community, multiple sports lack adequate indoor training facilities. Youth programs are being limited or forced elsewhere. Families are traveling out of town for opportunities.”
The proposed facility would be on the Crystal Ridge Community Centre property, behind the library. While the proponents acknowledged the potential for impact to nearby residents, they said they tried to put it in a location that would minimize impact and are open to have discussions with neighbours to alleviate any concerns.
Early projections suggest the project could be a substantial revenue generator with a net income of roughly $700,000 in the first year, growing to around $950,000 in year five. However, even if their targeted utilization rates don’t materialize, proponents say they only need a utilization rate of around 40 per cent to break even.
The club will act as the anchor tenant, but there’s been interest from other groups like the Greater Fort Erie Minor Ball Association, flag football groups, as well as social clubs.
While the club isn’t asking for money from the town–though they’d welcome financial assistance–they are seeking a show of support on the location. A loan guarantee could also help the club secure a better interest rate. They’ll also have to develop a lease agreement and will possibly require zoning considerations.
Councillors seemed open to the idea though they did ask questions about the life span of the turf fields and dome structures. The fields last about 12 years, while the domes need replacing after 20, and the club said it’s built those costs into their plan.
Councillor Darren Flagg also questioned some of the financial projections, though the club said it’s based on conservative estimates.
Enhancing the Crystal Ridge Community Centre property, whether through the sports dome or another way, does have a supporter in Councillor Tom Lewis.
“I’ve long believed that the Crystal Ridge Community Centre campus, from a recreational and community point of view, needs to have more access and it’s an underutilized piece of property that has a lot of potential,” he said.
Council preparing to tackle 2025 budget
Town to reimburse property owners who win heritage appeals
Councillor ‘gobsmacked’ by Dominion Road development proposal
About The Author
Luke Edwards
Luke Edwards is a longtime Niagara community journalist who has covered a variety of beats, including business, agriculture, the wine industry and politics. When not writing, there's a good chance he can be found at a baseball diamond or curling rink.
Stay Informed