Simon Fraser University unveils new varsity team name

Simon Fraser University (SFU) has announced a new name for its varsity teams: the Red Leafs.

Introducing the new name for our varsity athletics teams. New name, same unwavering university spirit. https://t.co/RfPXR5wX08 @sfu_athletics #RepTheLeaf

— Simon Fraser University (@SFU) September 6, 2022

The Burnaby post-secondary school decided to drop its previous name, the Clan, in the summer of 2020 based on the findings of an engagement process through a study commissioned by Athletics and Recreation.

Student-athletes voted nearly unanimously on the change, saying the ‘Clan’ was embarrassing and shameful, especially while on road-trips, as SFU is Canada’s only Nation Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) school.

President of SFU, Joy Johnson, said in a news release in the fall of 2020 that she is in strong support of the change.

Adding since SFU is Canada’s only NCAA team that competes in the U.S., it’s nearly impossible to separate the “Clan” from the Ku Klux Klan.

“These troubling histories aren’t confined to the U.S.; the KKK and anti-Black racism exist here in Canada. We must stand up against anti-Black racism at all levels — individual, institutional, and systemic — and stand with and for our Black students, colleagues, and friends at every opportunity,” she said.

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A varsity team name working group was formed in early 2021 with SFU not only reaching out to student-athletes, athletics and recreation staff, but Indigenous leaders as well.

The new look starts Thursday when the women’s volleyball team takes on the Montana State Billings.

With files from Sandra Prusina