Simon Fraser University has commissioned an independent report on alternative competitive varsity frameworks as the university considers a possible return to Canadian sports competition.
On Sept. 17, 2025, SFU Provost and Vice-President, Academic, Dilson Rassier directed Bob Copeland, of McLaren Global Sport Solutions Inc., to report on the impacts of joining U Sports and/or other Canadian competitive frameworks.
"SFU is committed to maintaining a varsity athletics program that supports student-athletes and creates opportunities for them to thrive," says Rassier. "The Athletics and Recreation strategy seeks to build a sustainable interuniversity athletics program that centres the student experience by aligning with SFU's mission to provide an excellent academic experience with opportunities to compete in sport.
"A sustainable program at SFU includes considering the impacts on student-athletes, evolving costs and challenges faced by competing in the NCAA."
SFU is proud of our membership within the NCAA Division II. There are many benefits to being Canada's only NCAA team, most importantly for the university's student-athletes. However, the changing nature of the NCAA, changes to the competitive framework varsity athletes participate in, unpredictable shifts in exchange rates, potential impacts for our students in crossing the border, and restrictions on our ability to affect NCAA decision-making, have created a difficult planning model. We need to better understand the situation and whether staying in the NCAA is still the right decision for SFU.
To that end, the university is considering a return to competing in a Canadian competitive framework, but first need to understand the impacts on student-athletes before making a decision.
The independent consultant has existing knowledge of SFU through his review of the football program. McLaren Global is a well-regarded Canadian organization with significant understanding of university athletics programs and competitive structures. The independent consultant will gather input on potential impacts from student-athletes, coaches, student governance bodies, as well as selected club coaches and alumni.
The report will be made public. While awaiting its delivery, SFU will pay an initial application fee to U Sports. This cost will ensure that all paths are open and, once a decision is reached, allows SFU to move forward in the best interests of the university and our student-athletes.
"We recognize that this may cause uncertainty for student-athletes and Athletics and Recreation staff," says Rassier "We are committed to transparency and regular communication throughout the process."
The feedback period will run through mid-October. Copeland's report will be delivered in mid-November.
This is a complex situation. The SFU executive will make their decision aligned with SFU values and based on what is best for the university. They will consider many factors, including the independent consultant's report, non-sport-related impacts of competing in the U.S., feedback from student-athletes and financial implications, among others.
If a decision to leave the NCAA is made, the earliest SFU could compete in U Sports would be September 2027.
ABOUT SFU ATHLETICS
SFU is Canada's only NCAA team. We are committed to excelling in the NCAA Division II and the GNAC (Great Northwest Athletic Conference) and RMAC (Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference) in 16 varsity sports, with 300 student-athletes.
Spokesperson
DILSON RASSIER, SFU Provost and Vice-President, Academic
