Certification
Thousands of small to large amateur sports organizations exist in Canada. These organizations are run by a group of dedicated volunteers, who through their connection with players or love of the sport inspires them to take an active role in the administration. However, there are no formal qualifications, standardized training or required certification to take on a meaningful administrative role within these volunteer organizations.
By accepting a position on the executive of these local associations, most members are unaware of their implied fiduciary responsibility to act and make decisions in the interest of the organizations. With sizeable budgets these local associations have more financial spending power than many professional enterprises. There is often a void of independent oversight and regulation which can lead to mismanagement and even fraud.
The Smart Sport Certification program ensures the administrative function of your organization is optimized to deliver sustained progress on your institutional mandate. Built from the principles of accountability, transparency, and performance, having your organization Smart Sport Certified will give your executive, volunteers and membership greater confidence and assurance of a well-run organization.
The Smart Sport Certification Program covers all critical administrative functions:
- Bylaw Development
- Procurement Practices
- Budgeting Process
- Sponsorship and Fundraising
- Financial Management
- Inventory and Asset Management
- Onboarding of New Board Members
- Board Member Job Descriptions, Scope of Authority/Responsibility
- Voting Protocols
- Meeting Protocols
- Conflict Resolution Practices
- Governance
- Team Management
- Brand and Marketing
There are two levels of Certification available.
Organization Level
- A minimum of three executive members completes the individual training, one of which is the Treasurer. Training is valid for three years.
- Each team within the organization must have at least one member of the team staff with a valid training certificate.
Individual Level
Anyone interested in building their amateur sports administration knowledge is eligible to complete the certification training. Training is valid for three years.
Smart Sport Certification Training
Training sessions are offered in person through a 2-day workshop. Both weekend and weekday bookings are available.
Cost is $175+ GST/participant with a minimum 10 participants per workshop. A non-refundable deposit of $875 is required to confirm a booking. The hosting organization is responsible for:
- Providing venue with capacity to host all participants given current safety protocols
- Travel costs for up to 2 instructors (Estimated and billed at booking, reconciled at workshop).
