Simon Fraser University becomes U SPORTS’ 59th member university
Simon Fraser University has been accepted as the 59th U SPORTS member during the organization’s annual general meeting, Thursday.
Based in Burnaby, B.C., Simon Fraser University is the third-oldest university in British Columbia and has had a long record of athletic and academic achievement since its establishment in 1965.
Starting in 2027, SFU has will compete as a member of the Canada West conference, which last month approved their participation in men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, indoor track and field, soccer, swimming and wrestling.
SFU first joined U SPORTS (then known as Canadian Interuniversity Athletic Union) in 2000, when they left the U.S.-based NAIA, where they had competed since the university’s establishment. They subsequently joined the NCAA. Between 2000-10, SFU won 13 national championships: six in women’s wrestling, five in women’s basketball and two in men’s wrestling. They also produced 202 Academic All-Canadians during that span.
The Red Leafs will begin competition in U SPORTS in 2027 after one final season as part of the Great Northwest Athletic Conference in NCAA Division II.
QUOTES:
“After having concluded a site visit this spring and meetings with Simon Fraser leadership and athletic department staff, we are proud to confirm the Red Leafs will be rejoining U SPORTS for the 2027-28 season. Simon Fraser’s record of achievement both athletically and academically will make them a great fit within U SPORTS and we are thrilled to welcome them as they make the transition into the U SPORTS fold." - Pierre Arsenault, CEO, U SPORTS
“Simon Fraser University is grateful that member schools have voted in favour of SFU’s acceptance into U SPORTS. Joining U SPORTS and Canada West ensures the long-term sustainability of varsity sport at SFU that supports student-athletes and creates opportunities for our athletes to thrive both in sport and education. Thank you to Canada West and U SPORTS member schools and leadership for their support and guidance during the application process." - Joy Johnson, President and Vice-Chancellor, Simon Fraser University
“Now that U SPORTS has voted, SFU Athletics & Recreation will work on the next steps of transitioning to U SPORTS from the NCAA for fall 2027. U SPORTS offers a high-quality varsity experience. Competing against local Canadian universities will enhance natural rivalries and the fan experience on campus for all SFU students, leading to a deeper sense of SFU community." - Luc Simard, Executive Director, SFU Athletics and Recreation