Looking back at 2024 – A Letter from Football Canada Executive Director Kevin McDonald

Dear Football Community, 

As 2024 comes to a close, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on what has been an extraordinary year for football in Canada. I also want to express my heartfelt thanks and appreciation for all the hard work you’ve put in to improve and grow the game, and for creating positive experiences for our athletes and others within the sport. Joining Football Canada as your Executive Director just six months ago has been both a privilege and a learning experience, and I’m continually inspired by the dedication, passion, and resilience of everyone who contributes to the growth of our sport and the development of young people across our country. 

This year, football in Canada was filled with unforgettable moments that should be celebrated.  From Collège Montmorency’s thrilling overtime victory at the Canadian Collegiate Flag Football Championship, to Ontario breaking their decade-long drought with a triumphant Canada Cup win and securing the Women’s National U18 Championships (Team Ontario Red), to the CJFL’s Saint Clair Saints bringing home the Canadian Bowl for the first time in 25 years, to Team Canada’s remarkable threepeat at the IFAF U20 World Junior Football Championships, to University of Montreal’s women’s flag team capturing their third consecutive CCWF showcase, and so much more. All these achievements stand as a testament to the immense talent, dedication, and perseverance within our football community. Further, these successes on the field would not have been possible without the unwavering commitment of those off the field. We extend our heartfelt thanks to every parent, volunteer, fan, coach, referee and organization whose tireless support and expertise make these moments possible.  

To our PSO’s, you are the backbone of football in this country. Your leadership, dedication, and love for the game ensure that players of all ages and backgrounds in your province can have the opportunity to develop their skills and achieve their dreams. Whether it’s the groundwork that enabled Canada to send competitive teams to the Junior International Cup, the success of the inaugural Club and Elite Flag Nationals, the growing representation of Indigenous athletes on the national stage, or the increase in female participation rates, none of these accomplishments would be possible without your steadfast leadership, support and insight. 

I would like to thank those in previous leadership positions with Football Canada (both volunteer, board, and staff) for your dedication and commitment to Football Canada and its membership. 

Through the collective efforts of many, a strong foundation for the future of football in Canada has been built. While challenges naturally arise in any sports organization, it is clear that our shared commitment to growing the game unites us. My focus, and that of the entire Football Canada staff, is on building even stronger connections with our ‘Football and community leaders’ and fostering collaboration that elevates the entire football community. Please know that the work you do at every level of our sport is invaluable, and Football Canada is here to support and amplify your efforts. 

Looking ahead, the future of football in Canada is brighter than ever. With flag football’s inclusion in the 2028 Olympics, we have a unique opportunity to showcase Canadian talent on a global stage and to inspire the next generation of players. Working together, we can harness this momentum to grow participation, develop pathways for athletes, and make our sport more inclusive and accessible to Canadians new and old. 

As we set our sights on 2025, I’m excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. From supporting your initiatives, to enhancing coaching development, officiating standards, and athlete performance, Football Canada is committed to being a partner that you can rely on. We will be a supportive voice and celebrate the great work happening across the country while enhancing and improving our service delivery in key areas of our business. I believe that by working together, we can achieve even greater heights and continue to make football a source of pride and community across the nation. 

To everyone that contributes to making this game and community better each day, thank you.  Thank you for lending football your precious time, passion, energy, commitment and dedication…we are all grateful and the sport is better from your contributions. To our partners, athletes, parents, and all who share a passion for this game, I wish you and your loved ones a restful holiday season and an incredible New Year. 
 
I truly look forward to continuing to build on the strength and success of this past year in 2025 and beyond. 

Yours in Football,  

Kevin McDonald 
Executive Director 
Football Canada 

Read Football Canada’s year end newsletter here: https://conta.cc/3BKNmRs