Historic Sporting Achievements at the Canadian National Exhibition Grounds
The Canadian National Exhibition grounds have long been a stage for historic sporting moments, hosting everything from Grey Cup games to the first Toronto Blue Jays games and various Toronto FC triumphs. The events of June 2026 added another remarkable chapter to this legacy.
Canada’s First Home World Cup Game
On June 12, the Canadian men’s soccer team played its first home game in the FIFA World Cup, earning a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina at Toronto Stadium (which will be known as BMO Field again starting July 3).
Toronto Marlies Capture Calder Cup
On June 19, the Toronto Marlies, the Maple Leafs’ American Hockey League affiliate, won the Calder Cup for the second time in club history, defeating the Chicago Wolves 4-3 at the Coca-Cola Coliseum to clinch the AHL championship.
Mabrey Ties WNBA Scoring Record
On Thursday night, Marina Mabrey and her Toronto Tempo teammates joined the celebration at the Coca-Cola Coliseum. Mabrey scored 53 points in the Tempo’s 125-97 victory over the visiting Los Angeles Sparks, tying the WNBA record for most points by a player in a game, previously set by Liz Cambage in 2018 and A’ja Wilson in 2023.
“Making it in the WNBA is like a dream come true,” Mabrey said in an on-court interview after the game. “I have teammates that support me and just look out for me everywhere and want me to do my best and give them my thanks. And my thanks to (Tempo head coach) Sandy (Brondello) for giving me an offense where I can really thrive.”
Mabrey’s nine three-point baskets also set a WNBA single-game record. “To be a three-point shooter, your teammates have to set up screens and deliver the pass, and they did that,” Mabrey said.
Marina Mabrey of the Toronto Tempo (right) hugs head coach Sandy Brondello after leaving the game during the second half of a WNBA game against the Los Angeles Sparks at Coca-Cola Coliseum on June 25, 2026 in Toronto, Canada. Mabrey tied the WNBA single-game scoring record with 53 points. Photo by Tara Walton /Getty Images
Mabrey had to carry much of the offensive load for the Tempo due to injuries that sidelined guard Brittney Sykes and rookie guard Kiki Rice. The Tempo’s 125 points set a WNBA record for most points by a team in a game that did not go into overtime.
The Tempo (9-9) returns to action Saturday afternoon against the Phoenix Mercury. As it is the first of three games Tempo will play at Scotiabank Arena this season, there will be no further CNE history in this contest.
