News Releases

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Jan. 13, 2014) -

Editors Note: There is a photo associated with this press release.

BMO Financial Group - the Bank of Soccer in Canada - is thrilled to welcome English international striker Jermain Defoe and U.S. international midfielder Michael Bradley to Toronto FC. BMO is also pleased to celebrate the return of Canadian international midfielder Dwayne De Rosario to the club.

"As Canada's bank of soccer and a long-time sponsor and fan of TFC, it's exciting for us and for all the fans to see such an effort to build a lasting legacy of excitement and entertainment for professional soccer in the city," said Justine Fedak, Senior Vice President, Head of Advertising and Sponsorships, BMO Financial Group.

"We support soccer as a growth sport for young people in our communities. We are excited that soccer fans and our customers will celebrate at BMO Field on March 22 to cheer on TFC at their home opener against D.C. United," added Fedak.

BMO and Major League Soccer:

• Fans who show their game ticket and BMO credit or debit card can enjoy BMO's Power of Blue program at all home MLS matches. This can include an exclusive stadium entrance for BMO customers to get them into the game faster, a chance to participate in the official coin toss before the game, a chance to win seat upgrades or a $50 food and beverage voucher, and other perks depending on the home team.
• Soccer fans can participate in the "BMO Free Kick." Before every MLS home game, fans can test the speed of their kick and compare it to professional players.
• BMO is the premier partner of Toronto FC, supporting the team since its 2007 inaugural season. Toronto FC plays at BMO Field, where BMO is the naming rights sponsor of the stadium. BMO's "Kickin' with TFC" is a youth program that helps kids fundraise for their club and take part in exciting pregame activities.

About BMO Financial Group

For more than 195 years, BMO Financial Group has believed in community reinvestment and corporate and social responsibility in the communities it serves. In 2012, BMO contributed more than $87.6 million in donations, sponsorships and events in Canada and the United States to groups, organizations and programs that help build and sustain resilient, vital and healthy communities.

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 our grassroots sponsorship of more than 1,000 youth teams nationally, to our 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).

To view the photo associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://www.marketwire.com/library/20140113-TFC-DefoeandBradley800.jpg.