OTTAWA – Thérèse Quigley, president of Canadian Interuniversity Sport, announced Monday that chief executive officer Pierre Lafontaine will be leaving CIS, effective immediately.
After joining CIS in the spring of 2013, Lafontaine spearheaded an inclusive and comprehensive process culminating in a new strategic plan. He also oversaw the development of the new governance structure for the organization.
“Pierre has set a new course for CIS,” said Quigley, the athletic director at Western University. “His positive relationships with the sport community and government officials have assisted the organization in strengthening our partnerships within the sport system. CIS is in a better position to move forward as a result of these accomplishments, and we are grateful to Pierre for his meaningful contributions.”
“I feel the time is right for me to explore new challenges and opportunities,” stated Lafontaine. “I am proud of the work our team has accomplished. The organization is in a strong position to move ahead, with a bold strategic plan, a new governance structure, and a strong long-term broadcast partnership with Sportsnet. The TELUS Vanier Cup played on Nov. 29 was a fantastic exhibition of the talent and passion of CIS’ student athletes. This was an exciting celebration of the 50th Vanier Cup and I know that the next 50 years will bring even greater opportunities for our student athletes. I leave very confident that CIS is poised to achieve its vision of being a world leader in university sport.”
CIS will begin the search for a new CEO immediately.
Prior to his tenure with CIS, Lafontaine served as the CEO and National Team Director for Swimming Canada. His roots stem from a coaching background in Canada, United States and Australia. In Australia, he was Head Coach for the prestigious Australian Institute of Sport Swimming Program. He served two terms as the Head Swim Coach for the Phoenix Swim Club in Phoenix, Arizona.
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