News Releases

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Dec. 13, 2012) -

Editors Note: There are two photos associated with this press release.

As the Bank of Soccer in Canada and sponsor of the Canadian Soccer Association, BMO Financial Group today congratulated Canadian soccer players Atiba Hutchinson and Christine Sinclair as the recipients of the 2012 BMO Canadian Players of the Year Award. The award, selected by Canadian media and coaches, is bestowed each year on Canada's top male and female soccer players in recognition of their excellence in the sport at both the national and club levels.

Hutchinson is a midfielder from Brampton, Ontario with 61 appearances for Canada, is a force on the Men's National Team, and is a regular starter for PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands.

Sinclair, Canadian National Women's Team captain, has scored 143 goals for her country, making her the third highest goal scorer in women's international soccer. The Burnaby, British Columbia native, who was recently named as the 2012 Lou Marsh Award winner, has made 190 international appearances for Canada, and after leading the Canadian National Women's Team to a bronze medal earlier this year, is arguably the face of Canadian Women's soccer.

"Congratulations to both Atiba Hutchinson and Christine Sinclair on being named the 2012 BMO Canadian Players of the Year," said Justine Fedak, Senior Vice-President, Branding, Advertising & Sponsorships, BMO Financial Group. "BMO is proud to recognize the incredible contribution these players have made to Canadian soccer. Their quality of play and dedication to the game make them an inspiration for all Canadians."

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 1,000 youth teams nationally. The relationship continues with support of Canada's Men's and Women's national teams, Canadian Major League Soccer 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. Fifteen youth soccer teams (ages 7-12) are recognized each year across the country for their community involvement, team pride, spirit and passion for the game. One team is named the BMO Team of the Week 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, or Vancouver Whitecaps FC home match, plus a $5,000 donation to their charity of choice.

BMO Team of the Week Champions to date:

2011: Glen Shields Sun Devils 2000 Girls

2012: Ladner Storm

To view the photos associated with this press release, please visit the following links:

www.marketwire.com/library/20121212-atibahpx800.jpg

www.marketwire.com/library/20121212-christinespx800.jpg