Nestled in the vibrant heart of York University’s Keele Campus, Aviva Centre in York University, North York, stands as a testament to world-class sportsmanship and entertainment. Renowned as one of the best sporting venues in North York, this iconic destination has hosted legendary matches, electrifying concerts, and prestigious ceremonies. Whether you’re an avid tennis fan eager to experience the thrill of the National Bank Open, or simply seeking one of the best stadiums in North York for memorable events, Aviva Centre delivers on every level. With a sprawling capacity of 12,500, state-of-the-art DecoTurf courts, and stunning natural surroundings, it’s no surprise this sports complex in North York has become a hub for athletes, students, and spectators alike. Dive in to discover why this venue—now known as Sobeys Stadium in North York—is a cornerstone of Toronto’s vibrant sports and entertainment scene.
History
Aviva Centre in York University, North York has a rich history that underscores its importance as one of the best sporting venues in North York. Built in 2004 to replace the National Tennis Centre, which was demolished in 2003, this sports complex in North York opened with a thrilling match between tennis legends Andre Agassi and Tommy Haas, attended by 10,500 spectators.
Initially named Rexall Centre, the venue underwent a name change to Aviva Centre in 2015 and was later renamed Sobeys Stadium in North York in 2022, reflecting its evolving partnerships.
Over the years, the facility has hosted several significant events, including the BlackCreek Summer Music Festival in 2011, tennis events for the 2015 Pan American Games, and the opening ceremonies for the 2017 North American Indigenous Games. Adding to its intrigue, a “mystery tunnel” discovered near the facility in 2015 brought national attention before it was revealed as an elaborate “man cave.”
Facilities and Features
Aviva Centre in York University, North York is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, making it one of the best sporting venues in North York. The main stadium boasts a seating capacity of 12,500 spectators and features DecoTurf cushioned acrylic courts, the same surface used in the US Open Tennis Championships, ensuring a world-class experience for players and audiences alike.
The venue includes 11 outdoor courts and 8 indoor courts, providing flexibility for year-round use. It also features 39 executive suites and 2 party suites, catering to corporate and private events during major tournaments and other occasions.
Beyond tennis, Aviva Centre serves as a multi-purpose facility. It is home to a tennis training facility operated year-round and hosts York University’s annual Convocation Ceremony. Additionally, the venue is used for seasonal concerts, interuniversity competitions, and winter training programs, further solidifying its reputation as one of the best stadiums in North York for sports and entertainment.
Events and Activities
Aviva Centre in York University, North York is a dynamic venue that hosts a variety of prestigious events and activities, making it one of the best sporting venues in North York.
National Bank Open
The National Bank Open, formerly known as the Rogers Cup, is the venue’s flagship event. This professional tennis tournament alternates between Toronto and Montreal, with Aviva Centre hosting the men’s tournament in odd-numbered years and the women’s tournament in even-numbered years. As one of the premier tennis events on the ATP and WTA circuits, it attracts top-tier players and fans from around the globe, cementing its status among tennis stadiums in Toronto.
Concerts
Over the years, Aviva Centre has welcomed renowned artists such as John Fogerty and James Taylor for seasonal concerts, showcasing its versatility as an entertainment hub. These events provide a unique experience for attendees, further solidifying its reputation as one of the best stadiums in North York.
Community Engagement
The venue is committed to fostering community engagement by offering training opportunities for students and local tennis enthusiasts. It serves as a year-round hub for tennis training, skill development, and interuniversity competitions, reinforcing its role as a prominent sports complex in North York.
What Makes Aviva Centre Unique?
Aviva Centre in York University, North York stands out as one of the best sporting venues in North York for its exceptional features and multi-functional capabilities. Its combination of high-level sports infrastructure and community-focused amenities makes it a distinctive destination in Toronto.
Dual Functionality
The venue seamlessly combines its role as a world-class tennis stadium with its use as a community event space. While it hosts elite tournaments like the National Bank Open, it also supports year-round activities such as tennis training, interuniversity competitions, and concerts. This versatility ensures that Aviva Centre is a valuable asset for both athletes and the local community.
Natural Surroundings
Set amidst the natural beauty of Black Creek, Saywell Woods, and Stong Pond, Aviva Centre offers a serene backdrop that enhances its appeal. Its proximity to nature makes it unique among sports complexes in North York and tennis stadiums in Toronto.
Partnerships
The venue’s collaboration with Tennis Canada and the Ontario Tennis Association solidifies its status as a hub for tennis excellence. These partnerships not only enhance its facilities but also contribute to the growth of tennis in the region, further distinguishing it as one of the best stadiums in North York.
Renaming and Current Identity
In 2022, Aviva Centre in York University, North York was officially renamed Sobeys Stadium in North York following a naming rights agreement with the Empire Company, the parent company of Sobeys. This transition reflects the venue’s continued growth and partnership with one of Canada’s leading supermarket chains.
The renaming aligns with Empire Company’s broader strategy, as it also holds naming rights for the Montreal tennis venue, now known as IGA Stadium. By acquiring these rights, the company has solidified its connection to two of the most prominent tennis stadiums in Toronto and Montreal. Despite the change in name, Sobeys Stadium in North York continues to be one of the best sporting venues in North York, maintaining its legacy as a premier destination for world-class tennis and community events.
Location and Accessibility
Aviva Centre in York University, North York is conveniently located on the Keele Campus of York University, making it one of the most easily accessible and best sporting venues in North York. Situated at the intersection of Shoreham Drive and Pond Road, it is just south of Steeles Avenue and east of Jane Street, providing seamless access for visitors arriving by car.
For those using public transportation, the venue is well-connected via the Pioneer Village subway station on Line 1 Yonge–University, just a short walk away. Additionally, the 106 Sentinel bus service links the stadium directly to the subway station for added convenience.
With approximately 7,000 parking spaces available in the vicinity, Aviva Centre ensures ample room for vehicles during major events, reinforcing its position as one of the best stadiums in North York for spectators and participants. Whether by car or public transit, this sports complex in North York offers hassle-free accessibility for all.
Practical Information
Aviva Centre in York University, North York is located on York University’s Keele Campus, making it one of the most accessible sports complexes in North York. The venue’s address is at the intersection of Shoreham Drive and Pond Road, just south of Steeles Avenue and east of Jane Street. This prime location ensures easy access for visitors attending events and activities.
Tickets for matches and events, including the prestigious National Bank Open, can be purchased through official ticketing platforms or the venue’s website. Pricing varies depending on the event, with options available for individual matches, tournament packages, and premium seating in executive suites.
- Address: 1 Shoreham Dr, North York, ON M3N 3A6, Canada
- Contact: +1 416-665-9777
Socials
York University students can take advantage of discounted fees for indoor court rentals during daytime hours on weekdays, making the facility not only one of the best sporting venues in North York but also an affordable and convenient resource for the local student community.
FAQs
- What is the capacity of the main stadium?
The main stadium holds 12,500 spectators. - What events are held at Aviva Centre?
It hosts the National Bank Open, seasonal concerts, York University’s Convocation, and other community events. - How do I get to Aviva Centre by public transport?
Use the Pioneer Village subway station on Line 1 or the 106 Sentinel bus to reach the venue. - Can I play tennis at Aviva Centre?
Yes, it offers indoor and outdoor tennis courts for training and community use. - Are there discounts for York University students?
Yes, York University students can access discounted indoor court fees during weekday daytime hours. - Does the venue host concerts?
Yes, Aviva Centre hosts seasonal concerts featuring renowned artists. - What facilities are available for corporate events?
The venue offers 39 executive suites and 2 party suites for corporate and private events. - Is Aviva Centre close to natural attractions?
Yes, it’s near Black Creek, Saywell Woods, and Stong Pond, offering a scenic setting.