Well, Germs, it seems the summer soccer phase has passed.  No need to be disappointed, though, as next year may feel much like déjà vu when the 2015 Women’s FIFA World Cup takes place. That’s right, ladies soccer is about to rock your world.

For those who are not aware, the FIFA World Cup (sometimes referred to as the World Cup) is an international football (soccer) competition held every four years by members of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).  This year, the men took to the soccer fields in what was an incredible demonstration of endurance, agility, and stamina in the sweltering summer heat of Brazil’s 2014 Men’s FIFA World Cup.  Be assured, next year’s demonstration will be equally incredible and, for regional westerners, far more accessible.  In 2015, Canada will be hosting the Women’s FIFA World Cup, and the excitement is already buzzing.

As with any tournament, there are favorites to walk into the arena and dominate the competition before match play even begins; this year, one of those teams is Switzerland.  In what came as a shock to many nations, Switzerland solidified the first European spot in next year’s World Cup, a first for the country.  Only after a 9-0 run against Israel did Switzerland guarantee their place in next year’s tournament, and many other teams are attempting to do the same.  Italy, Russia, and Ireland have picked up momentum and continue in their pursuit for a tournament seat while England and Norway seem to be coasting towards an inevitable spot for next year.

China, Japan, and a few other countries in Asia have confirmed spaces in the tournament, but many believe it may be Thailand that proves the continent’s favorite. A promising U.S. team won a hard fought battle against France while Australia continues to make waves in their qualifying matches.  Africa will finalize their FIFA draws after October’s CAF African Women’s Championship, where power houses like Ghana, South Africa, and Cameroon will be matched against newcomers to the draw, including Zambia and Cote d’Ivoire.  The Canadian/home team automatically qualifies for the World Cup, but team Canada assures that they would have been in the mix regardless.  With so many teams and so much talent already gearing itself up for next year’s games, the 2015 Women’s FIFA World Cup is a sure hit amidst the world of sports and global fandom.

The tournament will be stacked with some of the world’s most talented soccer players and will be hosted in Canada (or, as I call it, home) for the 2015 competition.  There are six host cities throughout the country:

• Edmonton, Alberta
• Winnipeg, Manitoba
• Ottawa, Ontario
• Montreal, Quebec
• Vancouver, British Columbia
• Moncton, New Brunswick

Though the climate is not as warm as Brazil’s, all six cities are riddled with tourist attractions (from parliament hill to the Gatineau’s) and ways to keep busy if you decide to wander north for the tournament.  In what is promised to be a feasible and fun trip loaded with athleticism, competition, and patriotic cheering, remember to head up to Canada for next year’s 2015 Women’s FIFA World Cup. I’ll see you there!

Further information about the 2015 Women’s FIFA World Cup can be found here!