Football Canada, executive director Kevin McDonald part ways

Photo: Football Canada. Photo edit: 3DownNation.

Football Canada and executive director Kevin McDonald have parted ways, sources informed 3DownNation on Tuesday morning. The organization confirmed the news in a phone call on Tuesday afternoon and provided 3DownNation with the following statement.

The Board wishes to sincerely thank Mr. McDonald for his contribution and commitment during his mandate and extends its best wishes for success in his future endeavours.

To ensure a smooth transition and continuity of operations, Loring Phinney has been appointed Interim CEO. With his extensive experience, he will provide leadership continuity, support the organization’s teams, and ensure the continued execution of Football Canada’s strategic priorities.

Football Canada remains fully operational and committed to advancing its mission in service of its athletes, members, and partners. The Board of Directors is formally launching the executive search process for the organization’s next permanent CEO, effective immediately.

The Board is seeking a strategic, collaborative executive leader with strong experience in sport or complex member-based organizations, a deep commitment to Safe Sport and athlete development, and the ability to lead Football Canada through a pivotal period of growth and international opportunity.

3DownNation requested comment from McDonald via text message and he politely declined.

Football Canada originally hired McDonald in April 2024 to serve a six-month term as interim director of operations. Two months later, his role became permanent after a national search was conducted by a third-party firm.

Prior to his hiring at Football Canada, McDonald spent nearly 20 years with the Canadian Football League, finishing his tenure with a seven-year term as the vice president of football operations and safety. He worked for Ontario Basketball for one year before joining Football Canada, serving as the senior director of business operations.

The native of Toronto, Ont. and alumnus of Wilfrid Laurier University was tasked with several responsibilities, among them providing direction and structure as Canada’s flag football teams strive for Olympic qualification to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

Football Canada is the national governing body for flag and tackle football.