New CSA Surf Canada President Addresses Transition, Financial Challenges, and Path Forward
The new CSA Surf Canada President would like to thank our community for your patience and continued support during this period of transition. Our Board is actively working to stabilize operations, strengthen governance, and ensure the organization moves forward with increased support for athletes, integrity and transparency.
At this time, we are carefully assessing the current situation and identifying the key areas that require immediate attention. We appreciate any information or context from our stakeholders that can assist in this process.
As many of you are aware, CSA Surf Canada is currently facing significant financial challenges. The organization’s available funds have decreased from approximately $180,000 at the March 31, 2025, year-end to about $30,000. This reduction is due to the suspension of Sport Canada funding over the past two years while the organization was out of compliance, along with payments related to outstanding operational invoices, legal services, compensation and severance paid by the previous Board to the former Executive Director, and other administrative costs.
At present, CSA Surf Canada does not have an Executive Director or any employees. The volunteer board is currently overseeing all operational matters while we work to rebuild the organization’s structure and ensure its long-term sustainability.
Our immediate priority is to bring CSA Surf Canada back into full compliance with Sport Canada requirements so we can reapply for funding for the 2026–2027 fiscal year.
We remind every stakeholder, whether competitor, parent or contractor, that there is zero tolerance for bullying, harassment, or abuse in our community. We are committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all participants across every surfing discipline.
As we move forward, our focus remains on rebuilding trust, improving communication, and strengthening connections within our national surfing community.
Together, we can create a more athlete-focused, unified and positive path ahead for Canadian surfing.
Thank you,
Lionel.
Surf Canada President
