Last night against Valour FC, Kyle Bekker became the first player to play 100 matches for a CPL club. Having captained Forge FC in the league’s inaugural match, it seems only fitting that Bekker was the first player to achieve this milestone.

“It is truly special,” Bekker told CanPL.ca’s Kristian Jack after the match. “I think any time you play 100 games with a club, you hit that mark, I think the more you are in this game the more you know it is like ships passing in the night. It is easier said than done to be in a place, to stay competitive, to even just stay healthy.”

Bekker and Forge have had plenty of success in those 100 games, lifting two North Star Shields as CPL champions and reaching a third final. They were the first CPL side to ever play in a Canadian Championship final, narrowly losing the 2020 edition on penalties to Toronto FC. Forge also became the first CPL side to represent the league continentally, doing so with plenty of success in both Concacaf League, and later qualifying for the Concacaf Champions League.

Ever the captain, Bekker was quick to thank his teammates and staff for their role in reaching 100 games played.

“It is 100 games because of every single guy in that locker room, every single guy who has put on this jersey, every member of staff who has helped us out,” said Bekker. “They have helped me get to this mark, so I can’t get there without all of them.”

Again, demonstrating his leadership abilities, Bekker was quick to point out to his side that he is already ready for game 101, where Forge will look to rebound from a 1-0 loss to Valour when they host Atlético Ottawa on Sunday.

The first #CanPL centurion?

Here are some of Kyle Bekker's best moments for @ForgeFCHamilton through 100 matches in all competitions⬇️ pic.twitter.com/Z6ghPwGyd1

— Canadian Premier League (@CPLsoccer) June 30, 2022