'It brings our culture together': European soccer championships good for local business
CTV
More than 100 people gathered at the Croatian-Canadian National Sports Centre on Westminster Drive in London, Ont. to watch Croatia take on Spain Saturday.
More than 100 people gathered at the Croatian-Canadian National Sports Centre on Westminster Drive in London, Ont. to watch Croatia take on Spain Saturday.
While the 3-0 result on the pitch was not what they were hoping for, the match provided a chance for fans to get together.
“We love gathering for these sorts of events,” said Stjepan Prtenjaca, vice-president of the club. “It brings our culture, our people together. Even if you do not come here regularly, a lot of people love coming here watching the games. It's a big fundraiser, and we make some money from it. It just keeps our club afloat because, right now, some clubs are hurting.”
At The Scot’s Corner in downtown London, the bar is full of soccer fans during every match of a major championship like Euro 2024.
The place was packed Friday afternoon as Scotland took on Germany, and it will be rocking Sunday afternoon when England meets Serbia.
“The games are usually at times when the bar might not be full,” said Billy Thomson, manager of The Scot’s Corner. “We have 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. games or whatever, and they (TSN) have them all televised. It's always a good help and a good month of sales for sure.”
With these major events being played in June and July, it also allows for people to watch outdoors. Large screen TVs are set up on the patios for people to enjoy not only the weather, but a few drinks during the matches.
