Kingston will officially welcome men’s and women’s League2 Division soccer in 2026 with the launch of the Kingston Sentinels, an expansion team approved for League1 Ontario following a successful application by Victory Group Ventures (VGV).

The Sentinels will begin play next season at CaraCo Home Field at the INVISTA Centre, with plans already underway for a dedicated soccer facility and a Canadian Premier League franchise targeted for 2027.

For Kingston, this is more than a new team. It represents the arrival of a true pathway for local players — from grassroots to League1 Ontario and beyond. With more than 10,000 players registered in the region, families have long called for opportunities that don’t require leaving their hometown to chase their dreams.

“Kingston is the right city at the right time,” said Paul Barbeau, Managing Partner at VGV. “There’s incredible passion here, and with no semi-pro or pro team between Ottawa, Toronto, and Montréal, the Sentinels will fill that gap. We want young players to see that they can play at the highest levels while staying connected to their community.”

League1 Ontario officials share that excitement.
“Kingston has been waiting for a senior team to rally behind,” said Chris Keem, Operations Manager at L1O. “This project is ambitious, community-driven, and designed to make a lasting impact in Eastern Ontario. We’re thrilled to welcome the Sentinels to the League2 Divisions.”

What This Means for Kingston United

Kingston United is proud to be a partner of the Kingston Sentinels.  The arrival of League1 to Kingston in 2026 is a milestone moment. As the OPDL licence holder in our region, Kingston United has always focused on developing local talent. The Sentinels will provide a place for our players to continue their journey in Kingston, at a semi-professional level, without needing to travel to Ottawa or Toronto.

League1 will provide these players with the opportunity to grow and open the door to opportunities in professional soccer with the Northern Super League,  the Canadian Premier League and elsewhere.  It also strengthens our community ties: local kids will now grow up watching a hometown team knowing they could wear that jersey themselves one day.

The Sentinels’ long-term vision of a year-round facility also speaks to Kingston's need for additional infrastructure to support winter training and competition. This development signals that Kingston soccer is stepping onto a bigger stage, and our players, families, and community are all part of that story.