Canada West approves SFU volleyball participation beginning in 2027-28
Canada West has approved Simon Fraser University's application to participate in both men's and women's volleyball beginning with the 2027-28 season, completing the sport approval process associated with SFU's return to the conference.
The approval follows further discussions between Simon Fraser University and Canada West members after women's volleyball was not initially supported during the conference's annual general meeting in May.
As part of the approval process, SFU has committed to adding a men's volleyball program alongside its existing women's team. Both programs will begin Canada West competition in 2027-28.
“We sincerely appreciate the commitment of SFU to work with our members to welcome the Red Leafs volleyball teams to Canada West in 2027-28, and we look forward to working together on the next steps of their transition to U SPORTS competition,” says Ben Matchett, President, Canada West.
Women's volleyball has a long history at Simon Fraser, with the program competing for decades at the NAIA, U SPORTS and NCAA levels. The addition of men's volleyball will further expand athletic opportunities for student-athletes at the university while strengthening the sport's footprint within Canada West.
"Simon Fraser University is thrilled that Canada West has voted to include women's volleyball and add an SFU men's volleyball team," says Luc Simard, Executive Director, SFU Athletics and Recreation.
"Women's volleyball has a long, successful history at SFU and we're excited to take on Canada's best teams in Canada West and U SPORTS."
The approval means SFU will now compete in Canada West men's and women's basketball, volleyball, cross country, indoor track and field, soccer, swimming, and wrestling beginning in 2027-28. The Red Leafs will continue to participate as members of the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (NCAA Division II) for the upcoming 2026-27 season.
SFU was accepted as Canada West's 18th member in May following a membership vote at the conference's annual general meeting. The university was then approved as U SPORTS' 59th member earlier in June.