Frequently Asked Questions & Responses About Victory Ground Ventures

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

There has been some confusion regarding seating and attendance. The original plan included approximately 3,500 seats and standing room for 500. While the number of seats remains unchanged, we have increased the allowance for standing spectators.

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

The design of this dome differs from the historical ones in Kingston. It features an external steel cable harness that relieves 93% of the pressure from the fabric. Unlike the traditional 'hoop' system, this full harness allows the dome to pressurize up to three times more than the industry standard. As a result, it meets and exceeds local snow load requirements, a known challenge in Kingston. Additionally, our dome utilizes triple-welded seams in its two-layer construction, compared to the single-welded system used in other domes. This design creates a larger air gap between the exterior and interior, enhancing insulation and overall structural strength. The stands will also serve as a wind and snow barrier, further reinforcing the structure.

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

The structure will be taken down at the end of March or the beginning of April, prior to the start of the CPL/League1 season, to ensure that the venue is fully prepared for the upcoming matches. It will then be reinstalled at the end of October to mid-November, once the  CPL/League1 season concludes, allowing for necessary off-season maintenance and adjustments.

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

In the event that the project does not succeed, the stands, dome, and other key elements will be sold, as they hold substantial value. It is anticipated that the only remaining asset would be the turf. As part of the lease agreement, the details of this process will be clearly defined and documented to ensure transparency and proper handling of all assets.

Both Leagues come with a comprehensive checklist that includes critical elements such as the site, business plan, team structure, and funding. These components are essential for ensuring the project's viability and success, and each one must be thoroughly addressed and finalized with the League before moving forward.

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

The current timeline was developed during our meetings with the City in mid-December, taking into account the various moving parts and bids involved in the overall project. The dates we are working with were established based on those initial discussions, ensuring alignment with key milestones and allowing for the smooth coordination of all project components. The engagement process is not getting circumvented it is what is happening right now.

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

A matrix was created to rank all the potential sites we considered. This matrix took into account several key factors, including, but not limited to:

• Zoning and land use regulations
• Current land use and availability of necessary services, such as water, fire services, roads, transit, wastewater, power, and stormwater management
• Walkability and accessibility for attendees
• Potential land contamination
• The owner’s interest in partnering on this project
• Whether the site is considered a 'destination' site, meaning limited public transportation, few nearby restaurants, and minimal surrounding amenities

Part of the footy experience is about more than just the game itself—it’s about the atmosphere. This includes being close to the touchline, walking to the game, and being in a stadium that feels just the right size for the crowd. Halifax has done a fantastic job of this, consistently ranking as the top-attended team despite finishing near the bottom of the league. The European model, which has proven successful over the years, is one we’ve seen work firsthand, and we are confident that it will be just as effective here.

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

At this stage, the specific details regarding this matter have not yet been finalized. It will be an integral part of the discussions and negotiations with the city as we move forward. We are committed to working closely with local authorities to ensure that all aspects are carefully considered and aligned with both community needs and regulatory requirements.

The stadium will be successful because there is a clear demand for a turf and dome facility to be rented. Kingston currently lacks both of these facilities, and this new venue will directly address that gap. Many Kingston residents are currently forced to drive to Belleville, Montreal, or Ottawa, as these are the closest facilities they can use during the winter months. 

When it comes to the success of a Canadian Premier League (CPL) team, a significant amount of analysis has been conducted, with a key focus on the location's ability to support a strong fanbase. Kingston and Area’s current population is approximately 180,000, and within a 60-minute drive, this figure increases to nearly 400,000. Expanding the radius to 90 minutes, the population grows to around 800,000, and when including nearby U.S. areas, the population exceeds 1 million. Within a 2-hour drive, the population is estimated to range between 1.5 to 2 million, depending on specific boundaries and road accessibility. 

Looking at the average family size for games in Ottawa (3) and Halifax (3), and considering census and registration information we anticipate an average family size of approximately 4 people for our games. Kingston’s demographics align very closely with Halifax’s, and we know that fans are willing to travel up to 90 minutes to attend games there. 

Below is a chart that illustrates some of the comparisons between Halifax and Kelowna, providing further insight into the potential for success in our market.

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

Turf rental rates at our facility will be aligned with other comparable facilities in Kingston, although we are still in the process of finalizing the exact figures. Our aim is to keep our rates competitive and accessible for various groups. When the dome is in place, we will charge no more than $250 per hour for the use of one-third of the facility. This rate is designed to offer great value while maintaining operational viability. When the dome is not in use, the rental rate will drop to no more than $100 per hour, making it an attractive option for both community organizations. 

Currently, turf rental rates in Kingston can be as high as $360 per hour, which makes our facility an affordable alternative for local sports teams, schools, and recreational leagues. By offering a more cost-effective rental model, we are not only making the facility more accessible but also ensuring that it is utilized to its full potential year-round.

The above information and rates are based on current known expenses and could change based on the total final cost of the operation and changes in market conditions/comparables.

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

During the fall, winter, and spring months, the turf will be fully dedicated to community use, ensuring that local sports teams, schools, and recreational leagues have access to a high-quality facility. The only possible time the professional teams might use the facility during this period would be towards the end of March. However, it is important to note that training for most teams is typically done in warmer climates during this time, as demonstrated by other CPL teams. This approach allows us to maximize community access while accommodating any team needs should they arise. 

In the summer months, the turf will continue to be primarily used for community purposes, with approximately 85% of the time dedicated to local groups. The team will primarily use the facility for training during the morning hours, a time when community activity on the turf is typically low. This ensures that the turf remains accessible to the community throughout the day. Additionally, the afternoon window from 3 to 5 PM will be converted to community use if not used by the teams, providing more opportunities for local leagues and teams to utilize the facility. 

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

The turf will be suitable for a variety of low-impact turf sports, such as rugby, ultimate frisbee, and flag football, among others. These sports can make full use of the high-quality surface, allowing for year-round activities, particularly during the colder months when other facilities may be less accessible. When the dome is up, we will also be able to support additional sports that require specific conditions, including elements of baseball, cricket, and golf. For example, cricket training can be accommodated, as well as baseball practice for pitching and catching, adding more versatility to the space. 

Outside of the turf area, other parts of the facility, such as the lounges, meeting rooms, and event spaces, will be available for community and private use. These spaces are perfect for hosting meetings, corporate events, community gatherings, and more. 

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

When the dome is not up, we will have a clear cut-off for rental activities, with no bookings allowed past 11 p.m.. Additionally, rentals will not resume until 6 a.m. or later the following day. This policy will help ensure that the facility remains respectful of the surrounding community and operates within appropriate hours for rest. 

However, when the dome is in place, there may be flexibility to extend operating hours past 11 PM on some nights, as the facility will be indoors and noise concerns will be minimized. This is similar to the approach seen in Ottawa, where dome facilities often operate later during the winter months. We will, of course, need to review the city’s bylaws and regulations to ensure that extended hours are compliant with local noise and zoning restrictions, and we will work closely with the city to finalize these operational details. 

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

In theory, the team could play on any day of the week. However, if we look at the 2025 season for the CPL, specifically Atlético Ottawa, we see that their schedule includes 8 Saturday games, 5 Sunday games, and 1 Friday game. This gives us a general sense of how the league tends to structure its matches, with weekends being the primary focus for most games. 

Similarly, when looking at the 2024 season for League1 Ontario, games are primarily scheduled on weekends, but there are also matches on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. This flexibility in scheduling allows teams to cater to different audiences and maximize viewership. It’s important to note that while the bulk of games are on weekends, mid-week games do occur and could be an option as we fine-tune our schedule.

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

If we look at the 2025 season for the CPL, the first game is scheduled for April 5th, and the last regular season match will take place on October 18th. This provides a clear window for the team's season, aligning with the typical schedule for professional leagues in Canada, which allows for a robust summer season and early fall. If the team make the playoffs and wins the league the last game is Mid November. 

In comparison, the 2024 season for League1 Ontario began on April 30th and ended on August 5th. This shorter season emphasizes the difference in the scheduling of the two leagues, with League1 focusing on a more compact summer schedule. The differing timelines between the CPL and League1 offer flexibility in managing the facility’s availability and use, particularly for community events and other facility rentals during the offseason periods. 

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

For the CPL, regular season evening games typically start no later than 7:00 PM, with the only exception being 7:30 PM for a couple of games across the league. Daytime games generally begin at 1:00 PM, and no later than 4:00 PM, ensuring that games are held during times that accommodate the schedules of fans while also considering broadcast requirements. 

For the 2025 season, Atlético Ottawa's game schedule is thoughtfully arranged to cater to the convenience of their fans. All weekend matches are set to commence between the hours of 1 PM and 4 PM and then 7 PM with no game over dinner time, ensuring that supporters can attend without conflicting with their morning or late evening plans. Additionally, the Friday night game is scheduled for a 7 PM kickoff, providing the perfect opportunity for fans to unwind and enjoy a thrilling match after a long week of work. This scheduling strategy aims to maximize attendance and enhance the overall fan experience, making it easier for everyone to support their beloved team. 

League1, on the other hand, has a rule that prohibits games from being played in the morning. Evening matches in League1 typically kick off between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, aligning with the evening preference for most community and fan engagement. Afternoon matches are scheduled between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM, similar to CPL’s daytime slots. 

These scheduling guidelines help ensure that games are held at convenient times for both teams and fans, while also allowing the facility to efficiently accommodate different types of events and audiences.

During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).

Based on past experiences and typical game-day behavior, we expect that 95% of attendees will leave immediately after the game ends, with the remaining 5% departing within the next 30 minutes. The reason for this quick exit is largely due to the fact that 

there are limited post-game activities or amenities at the location. Without events or attractions to keep fans on-site, there is little incentive for them to linger after the match. This pattern is common in venues that don't have integrated entertainment options, restaurants, or retail spaces to encourage fans to stay and socialize after the game.