‘Heart And Soul’: Forge Re-Sign Captain Bekker To Multi-Year Deal

The Forge captain isn’t going anywhere.

Veteran midfielder Kyle Bekker has put his name down to seal a new multi-year deal with Hamiltonian side Forge FC, who he’s helped lead to four championships and six final appearances.

See Also: At 34, Kyle Bekker Wants To Keep Forging On In CPL

The Forge captain’s contributions go well beyond the 22 goals and 29 assists he’s made in 182 appearances: a driving force in the middle of the park, he’s a crucial link between a strong defense and a prolific attack, setting a tempo for a team that routinely goes toe-to-toe with MLS sides in cup play.

Having won the league’s Player of the Year award in 2020 and received nominations in that category for 2019, 2022, and 2024, the long-serving Forge captain will be keeping the standards high with his hometown club.

“Kyle has been the heart and soul of Forge FC since the very beginning,” says Forge boss Bobby Smyrniotis, who has been his coach through all six CPL seasons thus far and as far back as his youth days with Sigma FC.

“His leadership on and off the pitch has been a cornerstone of our club’s identity and success. Kyle’s unwavering commitment to the growth of Forge and the sport in our community continues to inspire us. We look forward to achieving even greater heights together in the years ahead.”

Bekker will be turning 35 this season, but told us earlier this year he’s still enjoying his football and will aims to keep playing for as long as he can, after which he’s keen to continue a career in sports off the pitch.

The Hammers are currently in preseason camp as they prepare to face CF Monterrey in Concacaf Champions Cup action. This year’s roster will see some big changes, with last week seeing Garven Metusala leave and York United’s Brian Wright come in ahead of the expected return of Molham Babouli.

Header Image Photo Credit: John Jacques