Association ushers in new era with revised governance framework

The Canadian Soccer Association membership passed a new governance framework today at its Annual General Meeting in Winnipeg. The annual meeting brings together the Association’s membership, featuring delegates from all 12 provincial and territory members, together with the professional clubs, leagues and athlete representation.
This contemporary approach to the governance of soccer in Canada will result in a clear and effective separation between the governing responsibilities of the Board and the day-to-day operational responsibilities of management and staff. This new governance model will address the specific needs and unique requirements of soccer in Canada and provide greater efficiency, accountability and transparency throughout the association.
Canadian Soccer Association President, Dr. Dominic Maestracci, commented that: “Today marks a new beginning for the sport of soccer in this country. The new governance framework will provide the Canadian Soccer Association with the best opportunity to engage its member provincial and territorial associations, districts, clubs and participants across the country in a collective effort to maximize the popularity of the beautiful game in Canada, from participation at the grassroots level through to Canada’s success on the international stage.”
This framework is the continuation of a governance renewal process that has involved a formal review of the governance and management structures and processes by an independent third party, extensive research and review by the Canadian Soccer Association’s Constitution Committee, Board education sessions and a plenary session for all delegates at the Annual General Meeting.
The next steps in the renewal process will involve draft governance policies to be presented to the Board of Directors in Fall 2010. By-law amendments would then be presented at the Canadian Soccer Association Annual General Meeting in May 2011 for formal adoption.
The Canadian Soccer Association, in partnership with its members and all its corporate partners, provides leadership in the pursuit of excellence in soccer, both at the national and international levels. The Canadian Soccer Association not only strives to lead Canada to victory, but it also encourages Canadians towards a life-long passion for soccer.