Kyle Bekker announced his retirement on Thursday. He has been captain of Hamilton’s Forge FC since the team and the Canadian Premier League (CPL) launched in 2019.

The 36‑year‑old midfielder from Oakville, Ontario, played four seasons of NCAA soccer at Boston College and four MLS seasons, including Toronto FC, before helping launch Forge and the CPL, the team said in its release.

During his time with Forge, Bekker led the club to four CPL championships, to the Canadian Championship finals in 2020 and 2026, and to a CONCACAF club league semi‑final in 2021.

He also scored 27 goals, recorded 32 assists, and was named CPL Player of the Year in 2020, according to the team’s announcement.

Bekker suffered a season‑ending knee injury in September after returning from testicular cancer surgery earlier in the season.

His leadership, on‑field success and personal resilience have shaped Forge FC’s identity and given the young league a strong role model, making his retirement a landmark moment for both club and CPL.

Forge FC will honor Bekker with an in‑stadium tribute, giveaways and special merchandise at its Oct. 12 match.