Toronto FC originals look back with pride at franchise’s first steps 10 years on
TORONTO — As Toronto FC’s first signing and captain, it was Jim Brennan’s honour to lead the fledgling Major League Soccer franchise out for the first time.
Having played in England for Bristol City, Nottingham Forest, Norwich City and Southampton, the native of Newmarket, Ont., was no stranger to marquee moments. But his emotions were running high for Toronto’s MLS debut on April 7, 2007, against Chivas USA in Carson, Calif.
“It was a lot of excitement, especially for the local guys because we wore that jersey with pride, representing Toronto,” Brennan recalled. “A lot of us were born in this city so it meant an awful lot.”
“I remember walking out and thinking ‘OK, well this is it guys. Let’s get going and put on a show here,’” he added.