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The anticipation is palpable as the Northern Super League (NSL) prepares for a historic moment in women’s soccer with the unveiling of its championship trophy, the Diana B. Matheson Cup. This trophy will be awarded during the league’s inaugural final at BMO Field in Toronto.
Its significance extends far beyond its physical form.
Named after the legendary Diana Matheson, a former star midfielder for the Canadian women’s national team and a key figure in establishing the NSL, this trophy symbolizes the dedication and progress of women in sports.
Matheson expressed her gratitude in a recent NSL news release, stating, “It is incredibly humbling to see my name on the championship trophy, especially as it is a Cup that represents so much more.”
Honoring a legacy
Matheson embodies the spirit of leadership and excellence in Canadian women’s soccer.
The NSL board of directors unanimously agreed to name the trophy in her honor. NSL president Christina Litz emphasized this in her statement, noting, “The Diana B. Matheson Cup is more than a trophy; it’s a symbol of a new chapter for Canadian sport.”
In her remarks, Matheson highlighted the importance of this trophy for all players, past and future.
She remarked, “To me, this Cup is about all players, those who paved a pathway for this league and those who will carry its torch going forward. My hope is this trophy reflects the excellence and pride of our league.”
A tangible celebration of achievement
The trophy, measuring just under 56 centimeters in height, features a bronze base and a golden body—a nod to Canada’s Olympic success in women’s soccer, including a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics. Adorned with the North Star emblem from the league’s logo, it stands as a beacon of hope and aspiration for future generations.
As anticipation builds for the NSL final, which will be broadcast nationally on platforms such as CBC, TSN, and internationally on ESPN+, fans will witness a momentous occasion. The event is set to begin at 1 p.m. ET, marking a significant milestone for women’s professional soccer in Canada.
A celebration of progress
Matheson’s contributions extend beyond her playing days; she currently serves as the chief growth officer of the NSL. With 19 goals in 206 appearances over a remarkable 17-year career with the Canadian senior women’s team, her legacy is well-established. Recently, she was recognized on the international stage with the World Football Summit Award for the best women’s football initiative.
Connecting with fans through storytelling
In addition to the trophy’s unveiling, fans will have the opportunity to see the Diana B. Matheson Cup up close this fall. As part of The Pitch national screening tour, a documentary chronicling Matheson’s journey in launching the NSL, the trophy will be displayed at various locations. The tour begins in Vancouver on October 22, followed by stops in Montreal on October 28, and Ottawa on October 30. The final stop will be in Toronto on November 12.
By embracing this trophy, the NSL not only honors Matheson’s legacy but also paves the way for a vibrant future for women’s soccer in Canada. The Diana B. Matheson Cup serves as a reminder that the journey of women’s sports is one of resilience, determination, and endless possibilities.
