SFU football advisor to review future opportunities

Simon Fraser University (SFU) has appointed a special advisor to look at whether there are any “potential sustainable opportunities for football.”

Earlier this month, SFU announced it was ending its varsity football program, saying the decision came after its affiliate agreement with the Lone Star Conference in the southwestern U.S., in which SFU competes, was not renewed.

Since the announcement on April 4, there have been many who’ve spoken out about the decision.

The university now says it’s heard loud and clear from the community, adding it has also received suggestions about establishing a non-varsity team or seeking an exemption with other varsity programs in Canada.

“We know SFU football was loved by many and we want to thank everyone for their active involvement on this issue and for coming to the conversation with a shared desire to ensure student-athletes are supported in every way to pursue their academic and athletic goals,” a statement posted on April 20 reads.

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The school says it reiterates that “all parties agree there is no path forward for SFU to play varsity football in the NCAA,” and that there will be no varsity football this fall.

Meanwhile, the special advisor appointed by President Joy Johnson is expected to review and make recommendations to the Provost about any potential opportunities. They are set to meet with various stakeholders, including students, student-athletes, faculty, alumni, and staff, to get their perspectives.

“We are committed to an open and transparent process,” the SFU statement continues, adding, ultimately, “a final decision will be made by the university.”

‘Save SFU Football Day’ 

Meanwhile, the owner of the BC Lions, Amar Doman, is stepping up his efforts to save the program.

He put out a video appeal on Wednesday to announce the “Save SFU Football Day” — a one-day fundraiser set for Tuesday.

The fundraiser is set to help student-athletes caught off guard by the sudden decision to end the program.

“It’s a very serious matter. We must get this taken care of and I need your help.”

April 25th is #SaveSFUFootball Day. Amar Doman will match the amount for every 100 donations, maximum of $500,000

WATCH pic.twitter.com/jF6rIRXJG5

— BC LIONS (@BCLions) April 19, 2023

“This is a very serious matter, we must get this taken care of and I need your help. So let’s do it, April 25, we’re all together in this and we’re going to get it done,” he said in the video.

“Every $100 we are going to match, and we look forward to participating.”

Doman says they will match donations to a maximum of $500,000.

He also asked that people sign a petition to save the program. 

“We are doing everything we can to save SFU football,” he said. “Not only for the 2023 season that’s upcoming but, certainly, for the future, and for the decades to come.”

As for the future of the program, SFU says it expects to report back by the end of 2023.

“This has been an active conversation, and our focus is on students and student-athletes,” it adds.

Anyone who would like to share their take on this matter is asked to contact football@sfu.ca.