CSA Building New Governance Model

Association continues constitution work
The Canadian Soccer Association reached another milestone in its path to a renewed governance model that will help the Association achieve its long-term strategic directives. The Association’s Board of Directors unanimously approved the Governance and Renewal framework that was presented this past weekend by the Constitution Committee. To the betterment of its Membership, the Association is building a new governance model that will meet the specific needs and unique requirements of soccer in Canada .

With the support of Sport Canada, the Association’s Constitution Committee has met regularly since May’s Annual General Meeting in Banff, AB. The committee made a presentation to the Board in Ottawa this weekend. A new framework will provide greater efficiency, accountability and transparency throughout the Association.

“These changes will provide us with greater flexibility and the ability to implement our objectives from the strategic plan in the coming years,” said Canadian Soccer Association president Dominic Maestracci.

The Canadian Soccer Association, in cooperation with its members and partners, provides leadership in the pursuit of excellence in soccer, both nationally and internationally. Founded in 1912, its vision is leading Canada to victory and Canadians to a life-long passion for soccer.

Jubilee Trophy schedule confirmed
With all eight teams qualified, the Canadian Soccer Association has confirmed the schedule for the 2009 BMO National Championships Jubilee Trophy competition. The annual senior women’s national competition runs this 8-12 October in Saskatoon , SK. The women’s matches will take place at Sasktel Soccer Centre and Umea Soccer Field in conjunction with the men’s Challenge Trophy competition matches.

“It is a tremendous achievement to represent your province or territory at the BMO National Club Championships,” said Canadian Soccer Association President Dominic Maestracci .

“They are all accomplished athletes, coaches, and referees. In addition to competing and officiating at an elite level, they commit to excellence and embody the ideals of fair play, integrity, and sportsmanship.”

The eight teams are split into two groups. Group One features Nova Scotia’s Halifax Dunbrack, Newfoundland Labrador’s EPR Kirby/The Dock, Alberta’s Edmonton Victoria , and Nova Scotia’s Halifax City. Group Two features Ontario’s North London Galaxy, British Columbia’s Surrey United, Manitoba’s South End United, and Saskatchewan’s Saskatoon NATA.

Of note, the top-four teams from last year’s competition are all back. Champion Halifax City and fourth-place finisher EPR Kirby/The Dock are both in Group One; silver-medalist North London Galaxy and bronze-medalist Surrey United are both in Group Two.

Like Halifax City (2008), Surrey United has won the Jubilee Trophy in the past (1991, 1992, 1993 and 2006).

Edmonton Victoria is also a previous champion, having won back-to-back titles in 2004 and 2005.

The Saskatchewan Soccer Association will host the 2009 BMO National Championships this 7-12 October in conjunction with Saskatoon Adult Soccer Inc. Both the Challenge Trophy (senior men) and Jubilee Trophy (senior women) competitions will take place in Saskatoon , SK.

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