Step into the heart of the action at H2 Kitchen + Bar at The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver where live match screenings and conversation with soccer legends bring the excitement of the tournament to life.
Introducing Kickoff Conversations — an intimate speaker series featuring two of Canada’s most celebrated soccer icons: Bob Lenarduzzi and Carl Valentine.
Across two exclusive dates — June 17 and June 20 — guests are invited to hear firsthand stories, memories, and behind-the-scenes moments from legends who helped shape the game in this country, followed by live match screenings that carry the energy straight into kickoff.
Wednesday, June 17 | 12:30 PM
Bob Lenarduzzi
A true pioneer of Canadian soccer, Bob Lenarduzzi’s legacy spans decades — from his early days with the Vancouver Whitecaps to leading the club to its iconic 1979 NASL Soccer Bowl victory. A member of the Canada Soccer Hall of Fame, Lenarduzzi also represented Canada on the world stage at the 1986 FIFA World Cup, cementing his place as one of the nation’s most influential figures in the sport.
Match screening to follow: Croatia vs England (1:00 PM)
Saturday, June 20 | 12:30 PM
Carl Valentine
Fan-favourite Carl Valentine brings charisma, humour, and unforgettable stories from a career that saw him help deliver that same historic 1979 championship before proudly representing Canada at the 1986 FIFA World Cup. A Hall of Fame inductee and beloved Whitecaps legend, Valentine remains one of the most recognizable personalities in Canadian soccer.
Match screening to follow: Germany vs Ivory Coast (1:00 PM)
Each event features a relaxed, insider-style conversation, followed by the live match screening — all within an intimate setting at H2 Kitchen + Bar.
Your ticket ($65 per person) includes:
- A match-inspired starter:
June 17 – Smoked Pork Belly Burnt Ends or Baked Spinach + Artichoke Dip
June 20 – Hot Chicken & Pickles or Firecracker Shrimp - One feature beverage of your choice, served alongside match-day viewing:
14oz draft beer – Vancouver Island Amber Ale or Russell Craft Lager
5oz glass of wine – House Red or White
Or one signature cocktail: Southern Choke Hold, Gin in the Garden, or Mezcal Mule - Priority seating for live match viewing following each talk, in a relaxed atmosphere
Guests are welcome to arrive from 12:00 PM to settle in, with conversations beginning at 12:30 PM and wrapping around 1:00 PM — just in time for kickoff!
EVENT DETAILS:
📅 Date: June 17 – 20, 2026
📍 Location: H2 Kitchen + Bar at The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver
🎟️ More Info: Kickoff Conversations with Soccer Legends, Bob Lenarduzzi and Carl Valentine
