Mariam Kourabi, Guest Contributor
With the Northern Super League set to kick off in April 2025, Mark Cohon has been appointed as the league’s first-ever board chair.
Bringing a wealth of expertise in sports leadership and business strategy, Cohon adds fresh momentum to the league’s mission. Known for his innovative thinking and commitment to community-building, he will guide the NSL’s strategic growth as it elevates women’s soccer across Canada.
Cohon’s appointment represents a significant step forward for the league as it prepares to inspire fans nationwide and build an impactful platform for women’s professional soccer.
“As this league is being developed from a business perspective, I can help address challenges, identify opportunities, and keep us moving forward,” says Cohon.
“Another key element to this is community building. For the NSL and the clubs, the goal is to establish a big following in the communities, and promote inclusivity by bringing everyone in.”
A dedicated champion of Canadian brands, Cohon joins the soccer league following seven successful years as chair of Toronto Global, a trusted partner for international companies exploring business expansion opportunities in the Toronto Region.
During his time as Chair, Toronto Global has brought in $3 billion in investment, created over 30,000 jobs, and attracted 250 foreign companies to set up regional headquarters in the City. Cohon aims to leverage this experience to elevate the value of the NSL both domestically and internationally.
"This is a special time for the country, and we are part of a powerful movement in women’s sports. It’s exciting for companies to invest in and support this strong movement," emphasizes the new board chair.
"When I look at the growth of the NWSL in the United States and the rising value of those franchises, I plan to bring that same discipline to help this league grow and attract the right people to the table. People who believe in the mandate, but also believe in the business.”
With a career grounded in sports leadership and entrepreneurship, Cohon has earned a reputation for his innovative approach and consistent success. Serving as the 12th commissioner of the Canadian Football League (CFL) for eight years, Cohon’s strategic vision sparked an impressive resurgence in the league.
“My role now is to work closely with the NSL club owners and make sure that each of our franchises are successful,” says Cohon. “I understand how leagues and ownerships work, and that's what I'll bring to the table.”
His CFL achievements included a $2 billion investment in new stadiums and the league’s expansion back to Ottawa, along with achieving record-breaking TV ratings.
“I was successful at the CFL and expanding into Ottawa. I had experience in dealing with expansion with other leagues as well. This will help us think about the next cities that should join the NSL.” Says Cohon.
During his tenure with the CFL, Cohon collaborated alongside current NSL president Christina Litz, who served as Chief Marketing, Digital and Strategy officer. They later served together on the board of The JUNO Awards, where they influenced the evolution of the brand and supported a mandate to promote and celebrate Canadian music and artists.
"I'm thrilled Mark has joined our movement to build a top five women's soccer league in the world, rooted in the communities in which we play. Mark brings a wealth of experience in sports and business to the Board Chair role,” says Litz.
“Having worked with him twice before, I know Mark to push all to be as ambitious as possible, to think and act big, which is what the women who play this game deserve."
Cohon also brings experience from his time with the NBA, where he worked as Director and Group Manager of International Marketing. This experience will be key in helping the Northern Super League grow its global presence and connect with new audiences.
“Whether it is government support or corporate support, those are key areas that we will look to work on,” says Cohon. “We are thinking about our licensing business and the international competition which was something I worked with when promoting basketball around the world.”
Throughout the various leadership roles Cohon has attained, fostering diversity around the table has been essential in building his collaborative approach. The NSL executive team is led primarily by women of diverse backgrounds and experiences.
“When I was chairman of the Ontario Science Center, I created a very diverse board. This is part of my DNA,” highlights Cohon. “When you have diversity around the table, it builds strength, and that's really critical.”
Like the many NSL franchise owners, fans, and leadership group members, Cohon is looking forward to the league’s first kick-off and to “seeing the country come together” in support of this milestone.
“The league will resonate with many Canadians for various reasons. Our Women’s National team is one of the best, and many tune in to watch them,” Cohon highlights
“This is an opportunity for us to create a league that brings our best players in the world back home, and for Canada to attract amazing talent from around the world.”