October 26, 2023
Update on Athletics and Recreation at SFU

In September 2023, SFU received a report on varsity football at the university, conducted by independent advisor Bob Copeland. While the focus of the assessment considered opportunities for varsity football, the report also made clear that there are systemic and structural issues in the Athletics and Recreation department that must be addressed urgently before decisions about specific programs can be considered.

Following review of the report and the feedback from stakeholders contained within it, we are moving forward with changes that will align Athletics and Recreation more closely with the academic mission and overall institutional plan. The intention in making these changes is to strengthen Athletics and Recreation and to ensure it offers an exceptional experience for students, student-athletes, faculty, staff and the general SFU community.

Effective immediately, we are beginning the process to hire an Executive Director, Athletics and Recreation. This process is expected to be complete by March 2024, if not earlier. When this new leader is in place, they and the Athletics and Recreation portfolio will report directly to the Provost and Vice-President, Academic.

With the support of the new Executive Director, we intend to launch a comprehensive strategic planning process to set a clear vision and priorities for the department that will help us consider options for the future plans for Athletics and Recreation.

Until the new Executive Director is in place, a transition team within Student Services will continue to provide day-to-day support and oversight to Athletics and Recreation. In the long term, Student Services will continue to provide services to student-athletes and to participate in the development of student recreation programming.