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Saskatoon is a taking the next step to making professional soccer a reality.

An inaugural SK Summer Soccer Series — which kicks off with a friendly game on May 4 (7 p.m.) at SMF Field between a Saskatchewan Selects squad and reigning USL League 2 champion Calgary Foothills FC — will be “a stepping stone to bringing professional soccer to Saskatchewan,” said promoter Joe Belan from the host committee.

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The first step is establishing “a foundation” for professional soccer in the province, Belan stressed during a media conference Thursday at the Gordie Howe Sports Centre.

That’s where the SK Summer Soccer Series comes in.

It will be a test pilot to gauge support and interest.

The first friendly will be played at SMF Field, which is home to the Canadian junior football champion Saskatoon Hilltops.

“We look forward to bringing a different type of football here — the global game,” said Belan. “We firmly believe that bringing professional soccer to Saskatchewan will have a transformational effect on the development opportunity of players, coaches, both men and women. Soccer is the beautiful game that brings together communities, celebrates diversity and ignites the passion and the spirit.”