Memories of Callister Con Jones Park/Callister Park: 1921-1970 Vancouver Soccer’s Spiritual Home
Growing up, soccer wasn’t just a sport—it was part of our family rhythm. My dad coached, my sister and I tagged along, and Callister Park became our weekend home. The Vancouver Fire Fighters Soccer team was our team, and we watched them play with the kind of loyalty only kids can muster. Callister Park was located on Oxford Street close to the Pacific National Exibition in east Vancouver.
Then came the game against Columbus.
The Fire Fighters were winning, the crowd was buzzing, and everything felt perfect—until the riot started. Those old wooden boards at the front of the stands didn’t stand a chance. People kicked them loose and stormed the field with splintered pieces in their hands.
My dad didn’t hesitate. He scooped us up and got us out of there before things got worse. I never went back to Callister Park after that day, but the memory has stayed sharp as ever.
Despite that wild ending, soccer still feels like home to me. I love watching the little ones play, all determination and oversized jerseys. And every time I see parents standing in the teaming rain, cheering on their kids, I smile. I love cheering for the Whitecaps. And I especially love the World Cup—one glorious stretch of time when the whole world seems to hold its breath together.
They’re the quiet heroes of the sport.
I was enjoying the World Cup until I saw this!
Sportsmanship is the ethical behavior and attitude displayed during a game or contest. It involves playing fair, following the rules, and treating teammates, opponents, and officials with respect. It emphasizes playing for the love of the game and accepting both victory and defeat with dignity.
Trump cheats at golf, cheats on his three wives and now he's interfering with the World Cup.
