Atlético Ottawa Signs Former-Canada International Kris Twardek of Kinburn, ON

January 30, 2024 – Canadian Premier League (CPL) – Atletico Ottawa News Release

OTTAWA, ON – As Atlético Ottawa’s celebration of winter and the Beautiful Game (Soccerlude 2024) continues another major addition has been announced, with former Canada international Kris Twardek joining the nation’s capital on a two-year contract, with an option to extend into 2026.

Twardek, of Kinburn, ON, is a right-footed wide player who came through the academy of English Championship side Millwall FC and has represented the Czech national team and Canada at youth level whilst also earning a cap for the Canadian National Team at senior level in 2017 against El Salvador. Locally, Twardek played for Ottawa South United at youth level, where he caught the attention of Premier League giants Everton FC, and expressed his excitement at returning to his home region.

“I always wanted to come home and play in front of my Mum, Dad, siblings and friends that I grew up with. It doesn’t get better than that really,” said Twardek. “It feels amazing to be here. It’s a blessing, to be able to play in a beautiful stadium, with a passionate and growing fanbase. It’s really exciting to be part of this evolving project. From the outside looking in, you can see how the sport has been growing in Ottawa. I grew up in the country, just outside of the city and I was very close with my brother. We were constantly competing in everything related to soccer which gave me such a strong connection to my family and the sport. The club has made me feel confident and valued and I can’t wait to start competing.”

Twardek has experience throughout the English soccer pyramid, having played in National League, League Two and the Championship. Most recently, the 26-year-old played for Bohemians FC in the League of Ireland’s Premier Divison, having joined in 2021. This was Twardek’s second stint with the club for whom he has featured 71 times, scoring four (4) goals and providing 11 assists, whilst making the right flank his own.

“We are very excited to welcome Kris Twardek to the Atlético Ottawa family, we are thrilled to have a player of such calibre join the club and the Canadian Premier League,” said Fernando López, CEO, Atlético Ottawa. “Kris embodies the essence of a powerful athlete, entering the league in his prime and poised to make a significant impact on the field. Off the field, Kris has a deep-rooted connection to the local community and has a strong family focus. We believe in players who…