News Releases

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Aug. 9, 2012) - BMO Financial Group congratulates the Canadian Women's Soccer Team as the women edged out France 1-0 today to take home a third place win in the world's largest international athletic competition. The winning goal for the Canadians – and the only goal of the match – came in added time by midfielder Diana Matheson.

As the Bank of Soccer in Canada and sponsor of the Canadian Soccer Association, BMO is proud of the women's win.

"BMO congratulates the Canadian Women's Soccer Team for all of their hard work and dedication," said Sandy Bourne, Vice President, Corporate Sponsorships, BMO Financial Group. "These women are shining examples of how young Canadians can grow with soccer, especially if they have the right support."

Soccer ranks as the most popular sport amongst children according to a BMO survey from Leger Marketing. The survey showed parents are actively involved with their child's soccer team, with the majority of parents (77 per cent) identifying themselves as supportive, either volunteering on the sidelines, coaching, or making sure their kids get to practice on time.

About BMO and Soccer

BMO supports soccer across Canada from youth players in local neighbourhoods and communities all the way up to the professional level. Our deep commitment to 'The Beautiful Game' is evident from the beginning of the curve with our grassroots sponsorship of more than 900 youth teams nationally. The relationship continues with support of Canada's men's and women's national teams, our professional teams (Toronto FC, Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Montreal Impact) and our soccer venue title sponsorship (BMO Field).

BMO Team of The Week is BMO's national grassroots youth soccer program and is now in its second year. Fifteen youth soccer teams (ages 7-12) have been recognized across the country for their community involvement, team pride, spirit and passion for the game. One team will be named the BMO Team of the Week 2012 Champion as voted by Canadians, winning a $125,000 prize towards a field refurbishment, a trip to see a Canadian National Team, Toronto FC, Montreal Impact, Vancouver Whitecaps FC home match, plus a $5,000 donation to their charity of choice. Canadians can vote once daily from August 13-27 at BMOsoccer.com.

The survey was completed on-line between April 9th, and April 15, 2012 using Leger Marketing's online panel, LegerWeb, with a sample of 1,005 Canadian parents with children under the age of 16. A probability sample of the same size would yield a margin of error of ±3.09%, 19 times out of 20.