The countdown to the Northern Super League's highly anticipated kickoff is officially underway, with just 100 days remaining until the inaugural season opens its doors on April 16, 2025. This new six-team league is set to bring women's professional soccer to the forefront across Canada, and stakeholders have expressed excitement as preparations move forward.
Co-founder and chief growth officer Diana Matheson emphasized the current pace of the league’s development, stating, "It feels like we're right where we need to be." Alongside her, AFC co-founder Helena Ruken echoed confidence, declaring, "We'll be ready," as they approach the milestone of the league's launch.
Even though the league's first kickoff is just around the corner, there remain logistical hurdles to navigate. Specifically, the finalization of the NSL schedule is still pending, mainly due to the need to synchronize with the Canadian Football League (CFL) for shared facilities, particularly pertinent for teams based in Ottawa and Calgary.
Matheson anticipates the official schedule will be released by early February, with jersey sales kicking off shortly after. "Picturing those opening games in every market, that's definitely the image I've had in my mind for two years-plus. So I'm really looking forward to those few weeks when all those teams have their home openers," she added, reflecting on the future excitement for the league's inaugural matches.
The season will commence with one game on April 16, followed by two more matches on April 19. While much remains to be established, Vancouver and Montreal are still confirming their home venues, with Roses FC indicating they will utilize multiple locations across Montreal.
Despite announcing only around two dozen players prior to the countdown marker, Matheson revealed there are more significant signings on the horizon, including promising Canadian players who will be unveiled later this month. The league solidified its coaching roster recently, confirming Lydia Bedford from England as the coach for Calgary Wild.
Matheson is also optimistic about upcoming sponsorship announcements this month, hinting at partnerships with prominent Canadian brands and multinationals, alongside Canadian Tire. An official kit provider, Hummel, has already been secured, as well as Westland Insurance as the league's official insurance partner. Broadcast deals finalized with CBC and TSN/RDS will see all league matches available either through traditional linear TV platforms or on digital platforms operated by the NSL and its partners, ensuring access for fans across the country.
Each team will engage in a 25-game regular season, facing each other five times, followed by postseason play. The top four teams will advance to the playoffs, with No. 1 taking on No. 4 and No. 2 against No. 3, culminating in one championship match. Matheson hinted at the league's intent to prioritize featuring female referees, pointing out the need for growth within the officiation talent pool, at least initially incorporating both male and female referees as the league develops.
Ownership of the NSL is shared equally among clubs, with Matheson and Tom Gilbert retaining ownership shares within the Ottawa franchise. Future expansion teams are expected to purchase additional stakes. Matheson will pivot away from daily operations of Ottawa Rapid FC, instead focusing on the league's growth as she looks to expand connections with other women's professional leagues globally.
The league's franchises are independently owned, and small ownership groups have been pivotal to the league’s initiation. Ruken underscored the diverse investment community behind AFC Toronto, which was formed by seven founders, including Ruken herself. Various investors, including notable figures such as track star Andre De Grasse and tennis star Milos Raonic, have jumped aboard.
Meanwhile, Vancouver Rise FC's majority owner Greg Kerfoot, who is working through the sale of the MLS Vancouver Whitecaps, is collaborating with Christine Sinclair, the former Canadian captain, and several other partners, underscoring the league's commitment to women leading the way.
Each club will field rosters comprising 20 to 25 players, allowing for eight international players per team. The NSL is starting under a $1.6 million salary cap, with the minimum salary set at $50,000, and each team can designate one marquee player whose salary will not affect the cap.
Although the initial financial outlook suggests losses for the clubs, Ruken has expressed her long-term vision, affirming, "According to our business models, all the clubs will lose money initially. That's part of it but we very much work toward a breakeven scenario." She reiterated the intent to reinvest revenue back to boost club growth and establish solid valuations.
The entrance fee for franchises commence at $1 million, with estimated total capital required ranging from $8 million to $10 million over the first five seasons. Future franchises will face increased admission costs, highlighting the anticipated value of this burgeoning league.
With women's soccer gaining momentum and the excitement building around the Northern Super League, all eyes will be on April 16 as the league prepares to provide thrilling matches and showcase Canadian talent on the soccer stage.