Toronto FC and Kitchener Waterloo United (K-W United) announced a partnership today that will see K-W United serve as Toronto FC’s Premier Development League (PDL) team for the next two years.
 “Toronto FC is proud to partner with K-W United as our PDL team for the next two years. This is an important partnership to ensure our collegiate players in both the NCAA and CIS can continue the pathway to becoming a professional player,” said Toronto FC General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko. “We are hopeful that this partnership can help bring the region together and work towards a TFC Regional Development and Identification Centre like those currently established in Windsor and London.”
K-W United joined the PDL following the 2012 season after relocating from Hamilton. The club became PDL Champions in 2015 after defeating New York Red Bulls U-23 in the finals. Toronto FC midfielders Jay Chapman and Sergio Camargo and Toronto FC II assistant coach Chris Pozniak all spent time with K-W United prior to signing professionally. K-W United are currently coached by Martin Painter who also serves as a regional ground scout for Toronto FC.
“It is an exciting time in Canadian Soccer and the alliance with Toronto FC will allow our players access to a top class professional environment,” said K-W United President Barry MacLean. “There are numerous players and coaches who have made the leap from K-W United to Toronto FC and this partnership will ensure that there is a continued path for our young talent.”
            Toronto FC announced two youth soccer club partnerships last year in Windsor and London with both establishing regional development and identification centres.