On the final day of the Northern Super League, I woke up earlier than expected. It was hard to believe that the inaugural season was coming to a close after a remarkable seven months. Despite the gloomy skies outside, my excitement for the championship match between Vancouver Rise and AFC Toronto remained unwavering. Having witnessed the semifinal between AFC Toronto and Montreal Roses played in snowy conditions, I quipped that the Rise would handle it well given their familiarity with rainy weather in Vancouver.
The NSL showcased teams that competed in all types of Canadian weather throughout the season. The pitch saw remarkable performances, accompanied by extensive media coverage and engaging content produced by players and team communication departments. A documentary film titled “The Pitch” chronicled the creation of the NSL by former Canadian national team player Diana Matheson and her business partner, Thomas Gilbert.
Despite receiving less attention from women’s soccer media in the U.S., the league generated significant buzz as each team continued to strengthen its presence. Supporter groups from Halifax to Vancouver added to the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the league. During the media day leading up to the championship game, I had the opportunity to speak with members of the Crow Collective, Vancouver’s supporter group, who warmly welcomed me with their signature “caw.”
Members of the Crow Collective shared their experiences and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to support the Rise, highlighting the importance of having a safe and inclusive space for sports enthusiasts. The dedicated fan base provided unwavering encouragement to the players throughout the season.
The absence of a collective bargaining agreement in the NSL raised concerns among players, despite the league’s efforts to ensure fair wages and benefits. In contrast, the National Women’s Soccer League in the U.S. had already established a collective bargaining agreement, empowering players and enhancing their rights.
League president Christina Litz confirmed ongoing efforts to ensure the league’s sustainability and expressed optimism about future investments, including a significant commitment from the federal government to support women’s soccer growth. The NSL players and stakeholders are committed to the league’s success and the well-being of its participants.
The NSL embodies a blend of personal investment and professional ambition, with key figures like Christine Sinclair and other former national team players actively involved in supporting the league. As the season concluded, the league’s dedication to women’s soccer in Canada remained unwavering, signaling a promising future for the sport in the country.