April 16, 2026
TORONTO, ON — The Canadian Soccer League (CSL) has officially launched an expansion initiative, opening the door for new ownership groups to join the league and play a direct role in its next phase of growth.
The initiative is being led by Cosmos Sports & Entertainment, and its President, Cary Kaplan, who served as the CSL commissioner from 2005 to 2009. Their focus will be on identifying committed ownership groups interested in building clubs at the community level while contributing to the long-term development of the league.
Operating primarily in Ontario, the CSL has a longstanding presence in Canadian soccer and continues to provide a competitive environment for players, coaches, and local organizations. The league also accommodates many high-level foreign players with temporary residence in Canada and is also always on the lookout for special players from the local community.
As the league evolves, the focus is on strengthening its foundation through the addition of ownership
groups who bring a hands-on, entrepreneurial approach to team and market development.
“This is an opportunity for the right ownership group to come in and build something meaningful,” said Stan Adamson, Media Director and a long-time member of the league’s administration. “We are looking for partners who understand that success at this level is driven by local engagement, operational commitment, and a long-term vision for growth.”
The CSL offers a model that allows for flexibility and direct involvement in all aspects of team operations, from branding and business development to player recruitment and community integration. The league’s expansion strategy is centered on sustainable growth, with an emphasis on markets where ownership can establish a strong local presence.
Canada’s soccer landscape continues to evolve, supported by increasing participation at the grassroots level and growing national interest in the sport. The CSL’s expansion initiative is designed to align with that momentum by creating opportunities for new clubs to emerge and contribute to the broader development of the game.
Prospective ownership groups are encouraged to bring a clear vision for how they will operate and grow their club, both on and off the field.
“The league is entering a new phase where the right ownership can have a real impact,” said Cary Kaplan, President of Cosmos Sports. “This is not a passive investment. It’s an opportunity to be actively involved in shaping a club and contributing to the direction of the league.”
For more information on ownership opportunities within the Canadian Soccer League, or to begin the evaluation process, please contact: csl@cosmossports.com
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