By: Evan O'Kelly, Associate Commissioner for Communications

PORTLAND, Ore. – Simon Fraser University announced on Wednesday its plan to depart the Great Northwest Athletic Conference and shift its intercollegiate athletics to the Canada-based U SPORTS organization.
 
The university indicated that, if its U SPORTS application is accepted, the change will take place effective in 2027. SFU will continue to compete as a member of the GNAC through the 2026-27 academic year.
 
“SFU has been an important part of our conference, and although their departure is bittersweet, we wish them success in Canada's U SPORTS,” said GNAC Commissioner Bridget Johnson Tetteh. “The GNAC remains committed to building a dynamic future for our member institutions and will continue to seek opportunities to further strengthen our conference.”
 
Simon Fraser joined the Great Northwest Athletic Conference in the fall of 2010, becoming the NCAA’s first and only member located in Canada.