Nick Bontis has resigned as president of Soccer Canada, acknowledging that changes are needed to restore peace to the working climate within the organization.
The move follows a letter from provincial and territorial Canadian soccer leaders asking Bontis to step down, citing a leadership crisis. Bontis resigned at a board meeting on Monday, according to Soccer Canada.
“Soccer Canada and our two national team programs have the real potential to sign a historic collective agreement,” Bontis said in a statement Monday. Once signed, this will be a landmark agreement that will set our country apart from virtually all other FIFA member associations.
“While I have been one of the biggest proponents of fairness in the competitive performance environment for our Women’s National Team, unfortunately I will not be leading this organization when that happens. I recognize that this moment demands a change. »
The union standoff prompted Canadian men to boycott a scheduled friendly against Panama in Vancouver last July. The Canadians also showed their anger ahead of the recent SheBelieves Cup but returned to the pitch after Canada Soccer threatened legal action.
Bontis, who was elected president in November 2020 to succeed Steven Reed, said his resignation is effective immediately.
“Serving as a volunteer for this organization, and witnessing the tremendous accomplishments we have been able to accomplish together, has been one of the proudest moments in my life,” he said. The Olympic success of our National Women’s Team. A real diversity within our board of directors, with in particular our very first woman vice-president. Our first goal in the FIFA Men’s World Cup in Qatar 2022. Obtaining the organization of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with us.
“I know deep in my heart that there is more to come. »
Outside of Soccer Canada, Mr. Bontis holds the Chair of Strategic Management at the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University.
Bontis has been a member of Soccer Canada’s Board of Directors since 2012, where he held several different roles, including Vice President and Chair of the Strategic Management Committee.
Bontis is said to be in transit on Monday from Guatemala where he was named vice-president of the CONCACAF Council (North America) on Saturday during the 38e CONCACAF Ordinary Congress.