Professional football players will get help building careers off the field through a new partnership announced by their Mississauga-based union.
The Canadian Football League Players' Association, which represents players across the CFL and is headquartered in Mississauga, said its CFLPA Academy has partnered with Shift Group, a talent platform that helps athletes and veterans move into business careers.
Under the agreement, both active and former CFLPA members will have access to career readiness programming, professional development resources and employment opportunities, according to a CFLPA news release.
Shift Group will provide services including resume and LinkedIn optimization, interview preparation training, professional skills development and job placement support through its employer network and job board.
Preparing our members for success beyond their playing careers remains one of the CFLPA Academy's top priorities
That is how David Mackie, executive director of the CFLPA, described the deal in a statement included in a CFLPA news release.
Partnering with Shift Group provides our members with additional tools, training, and employment opportunities that can help create meaningful career pathways after football. We are excited to work together to continue supporting our members in their professional development journey.
Mackie said the arrangement gives players practical support once their playing days are over, a concern for many in a league where careers are often short.
Shift Group's founder also welcomed the collaboration, saying he has long followed the CFL through Canadian teammates from his own playing days.
Having been a fan of the CFL for many years through teammates I had from Canada growing up, it is an honor to work with such a special organization with incredible Athletes.
JR Butler, CEO and founder of Shift Group, said his company will help players carry their on-field success into their working lives.
Part of a broader push
The CFLPA said the partnership fits with the academy's ongoing work offering education, career advancement and wellness programs to members. The union, founded in 1965, negotiates and enforces the league's collective bargaining agreement and provides member services.
The announcement is one of several the association has made this year. In April, the CFLPA said it had signed off on changes to the 2027 CFL playoff format after negotiations with the league, with the union saying the deal includes increased financial opportunities for players.
In March, at its annual general meeting in Niagara Falls, the association re-elected Solomon Elimimian as president for a fourth term. The executive board also includes first vice-president Brett Lauther, second vice-president Folarin Orimolade, third vice-president Stavros Katsantonis and treasurer Adam Bighill.
Players interested in the academy's programs can find details through the CFLPA's website.
