The rumours are true, Sudbury Cyclones are returning to Greater Sudbury. League1 Ontario announced the formation of the League2 Ontario franchise on August 16th, marking the first league’s first foray into Northern Ontario.
SW Sports and Entertainment (SWSE) emerged as the new ownership of the Sudbury Cyclones. SWSE currently operates the Wolves (OHL), Five (NBLC), and Spartans (NFC), making them a natural fit for high-level soccer.
Cyclone’s Sporting Director, Connon Van Weghe, previously operated as President of the Greater Sudbury Impact, former keeper for Laurentian Voyageurs & Thunder Bay Chill, and worked in the front office for Vancouver Whitecaps. This connection should help provide a great pathway for the city’s top youth to move forward.
Dayna Corelli is the team’s first General Manager. Dayna Corelli played soccer for Team Ontario in 2005 and 2006, representing Sudbury and bringing home a national gold medal from the Rocky Mountain Cup. She is a project manager professional (PMP) and a professor at Cambrian College.
Sudbury Cyclones begin play at the James Jerome Sports Complex in 2024. Like the Spartans, the Sudbury Cyclones will likely play on the artificial turf field. Seating at the site includes uncovered, permanent bleachers, appropriate for a few hundred spectators.
Additionally, merchandise will likely be available at Greater Sports in the New Sudbury Shopping Centre, alongside SWSE’s merchandise for the Wolves, Five, and Spartans.
Media related to the announcement on 16 Aug 2023:
Official Sudbury Cyclones:
Pre-announcement rumour articles:
