Aside from some of the prisoner of war returnees, a good number of German-speaking immigrants arrived in Lethbridge starting around 1951. Many were seeking new opportunities for a new life in a country not ravaged by war. They came from Germany, Austria, and former German-speaking communities in central and eastern Europe (Volksdeutsche).
German speaking immigrants searched for social interaction with other German-speaking immigrants. For the younger men, soccer was a natural venue for meeting other young people. Social dances as remembered from their homelands were opportunities for married as well as for single people to get to know each other. To satisfy this need, the German Canadian Club (initially Lethbridge Bomber Soccer Club) was born. This group’s function was to facilitate social activities including dinners, dances, a German language school, and trips to Germany.
68
68 years, our club has evolved substantially but the sense of community remains constant
1958
Establlished
"On behalf of our members and volunteers, I’m proud to welcome you to the German Canadian Club of Lethbridge. For generations, our club has been a place where tradition, community, and friendship come together. We celebrate the rich heriage of German culture — through music, dance, food, and shared experiences — while embracing the diverse and vibrant spirit of Canada. Whether you’re joining us for a cultural event, a festive celebration, or simply to connect with others, you’ll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere here at the Deutsches Haus. Our goal is simple: to create a space where everyone feels at home, where stories are shared, and where new memories are made. I invite you to experience the joy, tradition, and community that define our club. We look forward to welcoming you through our doors."
Gary Wittebolle, President of GCCL
