NSL Clubs are issued National 1 Licenses under Canada Soccer Club Licensing Program
AFC Toronto, Calgary Wild FC, Halifax Tides FC, Montreal Roses FC, Ottawa Rapid FC, and Vancouver Rise FC have all received National 1 Licenses prior to the inaugural Northern Super League season.
“Canada Soccer is very pleased to recognize all six Northern Super League clubs with the National 1 Licence. Aligned to the Concacaf Club Licensing Regulations, these standards reinforce the clubs’ commitment to quality across the pillars of infrastructure, technical, administration, and governance. We look forward to seeing this hard work off the field translating into success on the field in the inaugural NSL season.”
Dave Nutt, Director of Development, Canada Soccer
This is a historic moment for Canada Soccer, issuing professional licenses to women’s clubs for the first time.
“Securing National License 1 status for all six Northern Super League clubs is another important milestone in the professionalization of women’s soccer in Canada. We applaud Canada Soccer for its efficient and straightforward process, which recognizes the strength of our league’s foundation.”
José Maria Costa, Head of Sport, Northern Super League
This designation comes shortly after the six newly-formed NSL clubs released their inaugural kits for the 2025 season. With current and former CANWNT talent including Emma Regan (AFC Toronto), Samantha Chang (Vancouver Rise FC), Quinn (Vancouver Rise FC), Desiree Scott (Ottawa Rapid FC), and Erin McLeod (Halifax Tides FC) set to feature in the league’s first season, the excitement surrounding the women’s game in Canada is at an all-time high.
“This endorsement from Canada Soccer reflects the confidence in the Northern Super League as we prepare for our historic first season and adds to the growing momentum behind the women’s professional game. The Northern Super League will debut as one of the top leagues in the world, and we can’t wait to showcase our athletes and clubs when we kick off on April 16.”
Diana Matheson, Co-Founder & Chief Growth Officer, Northern Super League
About the Northern Super League
The Northern Super League (NSL) is Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league, set to launch its inaugural season in April 2025. Established by Diana Matheson, a former Canadian soccer star, the league aims to provide a professional platform for Canadian female soccer talent. The NSL will feature six founding clubs: Vancouver Rise FC, Calgary Wild FC, AFC Toronto, Ottawa Rapid FC, Montreal Roses FC, and Halifax Tides FC. These teams will compete in a 25-game regular season, followed by playoffs and a National Championship in the fall of 2025. The league emphasizes a commitment to excellence and the inspiration of future generations.
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