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Governance Dispute

Who can initiate a Governance dispute?

Any person affected by the decision, including athletes, coaches, officials, members, volunteers, and organizations (e.g., clubs, PSOs/NSOs) that are directly impacted.

When can a governance matter go to the SDRCC?

Prior to the SDRCC's consideration of a governance dispute, it is essential that you first exhaust the internal dispute resolution procedures of your National Sport Organization (NSO).

In accordance with the Canadian Sport Dispute Resolution Code (“Code”), the SDRCC is only able to manage a "Sports Related Dispute" in instances where it possesses jurisdiction.

What governance decisions might be appealed to the SDRCC?

Whether your specific situation is appealable will always depend on the facts, the wording of policies, and the SDRCC’s jurisdictional analysis.

The following are examples only of governance‑related decisions*.

1. Elections and decision‑making procedures

• Disputes may arise regarding the conduct during board elections, including alleged irregularities in the following areas:

• the notification process; the establishment of a quorum; eligibility criteria for candidacy; or
• the eligibility of voters at AGMs or special meetings.

• Challenges to the validity of a decision made by the board of a committee may be in relation to the alleged failure to observe the requisite procedures as outlined in the bylaws or policies."

2. Interpretation and application of bylaws and governance policies

• Discrepancies in the interpretation of bylaws or governance policies that affect a member’s rights (e.g., criteria for membership, formation of a provincial body, and officeholders).
• Disputes as to whether the Board or a committee is acting within the scope of its authority as defined by the bylaws.

3. Conflicts of interest, abuse of authority, and fairness

• Allegations that a decision made by a board or committee about a member was taken by people who had a conflict of interest or did not use their authority properly.
• Claims that a governance decision did not follow the rules of fairness (e.g., you did not receive notice, you were not given the chance to speak, or the decision was made using an unfair process).

4.  Affiliation, recognition and membership

• Decisions of whether a club, provincial/territorial body, or other organisation is recognised or affiliated.
• Decisions to suspend, expel or otherwise sanction a Member organization or individual where the dispute is mainly about governance (for example, compliance with bylaws).

To file an appeal related to a governance dispute, click here.

*A governance-related decision is a formal decision made by the board or delegated committees that sets the organization’s direction, rules, accountability, and oversight