The Canadian government has pledged up to $5.45 million to back the Northern Super League (NSL) and promote the development of women’s professional soccer in the country. Ottawa has initiated discussions with the fledgling league to evaluate its requirements, with the funding aimed at implementing significant upgrades to facilities utilized by the league nationwide. These talks are focused on supporting specific community infrastructure to facilitate the growth of the NSL and bolster regional economic progress.
Enhancing the infrastructure of the six-team league has been a primary focus, as it has encountered challenges with scheduling due to the need to share stadiums that are not dedicated soccer venues. The aim is to secure midsize venues better suited for soccer matches. NSL President Christina Litz expressed that the allocated funds will be distributed among the clubs, primarily earmarked for enhancing their stadium and training facilities to address the unique challenges faced by each region.
In addition to the government contribution, NSL owners will also be making investments to supplement the federal support. The league has announced its intention to welcome a seventh team in 2027, with an expansion focus on Central and Western Canada. Diana Matheson, NSL co-founder and chief growth officer, emphasized the crucial role of sports in Canada’s future investment, particularly in women’s sports, which represent one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country.
The funding announcement took place at BMO Field just before the kickoff of the inaugural NSL championship game between AFC Toronto and the Vancouver Rise. The event was attended by four federal ministers, including Evan Solomon, Melanie Joly, Gregor Robertson, and Adam van Koeverden, along with NSL officials Christina Litz and Diana Matheson. Minister Solomon highlighted the NSL’s positive impact on women in sports, community inspiration, and economic growth, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting the league’s ongoing development.
Minister van Koeverden, Secretary of Sport and former Olympic kayak champion, described the women’s league as a sound investment strategy, emphasizing the entrepreneurial aspect of funding sports and recognizing the economic benefits derived from tourism, ticket sales, and broadcasting. The federal government, through FedDev Ontario, had previously allocated $180,000 to support the NSL’s inaugural championship, anticipating a significant influx of visitors and economic activity in the Greater Toronto Area.
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