Union Canada was created in early 2020 by former national team player Marcel de Jong and general secretary Dan Kruk to organize the players of the CPL, founded in 2019, and improve their working conditions. Initially, the union had difficulty creating a working relationship with the CPL, but this improved after a leadership change within the CPL and eventually led to the Representation Vote agreement.
In the meantime, the Canadian Players Union has established good relations with several member unions of FIFPRO, acknowledging the support of the leaders of various organizations such as the Players Unions of England (PFA England), UNFP (France), AIC (Italy), ASOJUPRO (Costa Rica) and MLSPA (USA) who shared messages on their social media channels to encourage players in Canada to vote for the Canadian Players Union. Players from Mexico and Spain, as well as FIFPRO President David Aganzo, also showed their support.
In addition to this, the unions of professional basketball players (NBPA), hockey players (NHLPA) and baseball players (MLBPA) have also raised their voices.
“We thank our fellow athlete unions, who have always stood up for us when asked. Their support has been invaluable,” said Cavalry FC goalkeeper Carducci.
“Since our inception, we have strived to ensure that players are heard and respected on matters relating to their professional football careers. The Players Union of Canada was created by players, because players and their interests are at the heart of everything we do. Eighty-four percent of eligible voters voted in the secret ballot and every single one of them declared their support for PFA Canada. We know they are committed and ready to do their part to make their professional soccer a viable career option in Canada.”
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