Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues & Sport Edmonton Partner to Enhance Opportunities for Edmontonians to Play Where They Live
New agreement set to leverage EFCL’s 163 Community Leagues to increase sport and recreation programming across Edmonton
March 12, 2026
EDMONTON — Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues (EFCL) and Sport Edmonton are partnering to ensure Edmontonians have more opportunities to play where they live.
The two community building organizations announced a memorandum of understanding Thursday, as the pair will use EFCL’s network of 163 Community Leagues to deliver sport and recreation programs, with an emphasis on impacting kids 10 and under.
The partnership formalizes collaboration between EFCL and Sport Edmonton, integrating Community League insights within Sport Edmonton’s Board of Directors through an advisory role, and a seat for Sport Edmonton on EFCL’s Recreation Development Committee.
It’s all part of the two organization’s collective commitment to leveraging the Community League’s presence across Edmonton to develop programs — in collaboration with Sport Edmonton members — to maximize sport and recreation participation, by reducing financial, geographic, and social barriers.
“This partnership between the EFCL and Sport Edmonton is a game-changer for our neighbourhoods. By aligning the grassroots reach of our 163 Community Leagues with Sport Edmonton’s expertise in athletic advocacy, we are creating a more seamless path for every Edmontonian to be active right where they live,” said Laura Cunningham-Shpeley, Executive Director of the EFCL.
“This collaboration isn’t just about sports, it’s about breaking down barriers to participation, revitalizing our local rinks and fields, and ensuring that the heart of our communities remains vibrant, inclusive, and healthy for generations to come. We are thrilled to embark on this journey to build a city that is as active as it is connected.”
For Sport Edmonton, the partnership provides an opportunity to contribute to ensuring its social impact mandate is structured around broad community reach, while providing opportunities for Sport Edmonton members to deliver meaningful programs across the city.
“Sport is synonymous with Edmonton and we’re thrilled to partner with an organization like EFCL to build community through sport and recreation opportunities. The community league network is a civic treasure and illustrates how our city is built on a deep passion for community. By partnering with EFCL and their 163 Community Leagues, Sport Edmonton now has an enhanced ability to provide Edmontonians, especially young kids, the opportunity to play where they live,” said Evan Daum, Chief Executive Officer of Sport Edmonton.
“Playing community soccer, skating on a neighbourhood outdoor rink, a summer evening at the tennis courts, or recreation programs in community halls are foundational memories for many Edmontonians that are the direct result of our outstanding Community League network. We’re excited to serve as a connector with Edmonton’s extensive sport and recreation sector to help create the opportunities for the next generation of Edmontonians to benefit from an active and accessible city.”
Work on developing sport and recreation programs is already underway, as EFCL and Sport Edmonton embark on a bright new chapter. Edmontonians can look forward to opportunities beginning this summer, along with enhanced sport and recreation integration within EFCL’s annual Community League Day, which is scheduled for September.
Stay tuned for opportunities to Play Where You Live through summer programming and other EFCL initiatives like Edmonton Community League Day.
Get involved now by purchasing your Community League Membership to support your community and take advantage of benefits that include the EFCL Community League Wellness Program, giving you reduced rates to City of Edmonton recreational facilities.
