Alberta Soccer President's Suspension Case to Be Heard by Independent Committee
Junior Figueiredo, the embattled president of the Alberta Soccer Association who is currently serving a five-year suspension, has been granted a significant lifeline. His case will now be reviewed by an independent disciplinary committee, following a decisive move by voting delegates at the organization's annual general meeting.
Delegates Force Board's Hand
During a closed-door meeting held at a south-side Edmonton hotel, voting delegates took matters into their own hands. Against the explicit wishes of the board, they forced the issue of Figueiredo's suspension onto the official agenda. While the delegates voted to maintain the president's suspension for the time being, they also mandated that his ultimate fate should be determined by an independent body, as stipulated in the association's bylaws.
"It's not over," said Figueiredo, who did not attend the meeting. "I'm relieved we now have a fair process. I'm eager to engage in that process. It's important we get back to putting all our focus on the kids and the game as soon as possible."
Background of the Suspension
Figueiredo was elected president in February 2025 but faced a workplace harassment complaint from a staff member just six months later, in August 2025. The staff member is no longer with Alberta Soccer. The board brought in Veritas Solutions, a human-resources firm, to investigate the allegations. The investigation found merit in the complaint, leading the board to vote for a five-year suspension of the president.
However, Alberta Soccer bylaws clearly state that matters concerning board members' misconduct must be referred to an independent disciplinary committee. Figueiredo has consistently demanded that the organization adhere to these established rules.
Legal Challenges and Board's Defense
The board defended its decision to act swiftly, citing the seriousness of the harassment allegations and the implications of provincial workplace laws. This action prompted four member associations—the Edmonton Minor Soccer Association, Battle River Soccer Association, the Calgary Women's Soccer Association, and St. Albert Soccer Association—to launch court proceedings. They sought to overturn the board's decision, arguing that the bylaws must be followed.
In March, a Court of King's Bench ruling denied their claim, stating that the soccer associations had suffered no injury because of the suspension. The associations chose to appeal this ruling, but the delegates' action at the AGM has now changed the landscape.
Organizational Changes and Current Status
Following the decision to send Figueiredo's case to an independent committee, the annual general meeting also resulted in significant changes to the board's composition. Five new directors were elected, with only Scylla Costra remaining from the previous board. Notably, there is no interim president to replace Figueiredo, as he technically still holds the position while suspended.
The meeting was restricted to voting delegates, guests, board members, and administration staff, maintaining a closed environment for the sensitive discussions. Figueiredo will now have the opportunity to present his case and argue why his suspension should be lifted before the independent disciplinary committee.
