5 SFU football players sue university over axed varsity program
Five SFU Football players have filed an injunction in the Supreme Court of British Columbia to halt the university's heavily-criticized decision to cancel its varsity football program last week.
In a separate civil claim, the players allege the decision by Simon Fraser University breached their contract despite its offer to honour their academic scholarships for one more year.
"These players all came to SFU based on promises … that they would play football and get a great education," said lawyer Peter Gall outside the Supreme Court of B.C. on Thursday afternoon.
"So with very little notice the program is now being terminated. We say that's a breach of contract."
None of the claims of either action have been tested or proven in court, and the university has not filed a formal response.
In a statement to CBC, a spokesperson said the university is aware of the injunction and will be "reviewing and considering next steps."
Last week, Simon Fraser University president Joy Johnson said the decision is a result of "ongoing uncertainty" due to the NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference announcing it would drop SFU Football beginning in 2024.
SFU Football is the only Canadian university team in the American NCAA II Division, and according to the claim has sent more players to the Canadian Football League than any other university. The school still had a place to play in the upcoming 2023 season.
Players and SFU Football Alumni Association president Mark Bailey also say SFU did not take any steps to consult players, alumni, or explore other league options in Canada before deciding to end the program on April 4.
Since the school's decision, there's been much support for SFU Football. CFL commissioner Randy Ambrosie, Canadian