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2026 SDRCC Mediator and Arbitrator Conference
The SDRCC Conference is a two-day professional development event exploring emerging issues and developments in sport dispute resolution. Under the theme Integrity, Fairness, Resolution: The Future of Sport Dispute Resolution in Canada, the conference brings together mediators, arbitrators, legal professionals, academics, sport leaders and other experts to examine the evolving landscape of mediation and arbitration in Canadian sport.
Day 1, the SDRCC Mediator and Arbitrator Conference, is reserved for SDRCC roster and Board members. Day 2 is open to legal professionals, ADR practitioners, academics, law students, sport administrators and other interested participants. Continuing professional development accreditation (CPD/CLE) opportunities will be available, and space is limited.
Why Attend?
- Gain practical insights into emerging issues in sport dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration, integrity, anti-doping and safeguarding.
- Learn from leading mediators, arbitrators, legal practitioners, academics and sport-sector experts from across Canada.
- Earn continuing professional development (CPD/CLE) credits recognized by participating law societies and professional organizations.
- Exchange ideas and build connections with colleagues from the sport, legal and alternative dispute resolution communities.
- Explore how evolving legal, regulatory and governance frameworks are shaping the future of Canadian sport.
Program at a Glance
Note: This section will be updated regularly. Newly added items will be identified by the date added.
Day 1: SDRCC Mediator and Arbitrator Conference (November 13, 2026)
The SDRCC Mediator and Arbitrator Conference provides an opportunity for SDRCC roster and Board members to strengthen their knowledge and skills, discuss emerging issues in sport dispute resolution, and share perspectives with colleagues from across Canada. Through interactive sessions and practical discussions, participants will explore developments affecting mediation, arbitration, and the administration of justice in sport.
Day 1 is reserved for SDRCC Roster and Board members. Registered Roster and Board members attend both Day 1 and Day 2 of the conference.
Download the Day 1 Program (PDF)
Day 2: Public Conference (November 14, 2026)
The Public Conference brings together legal professionals, ADR practitioners, academics, students, sport administrators and other leaders from across the sport community to examine current and emerging issues in sport dispute resolution. Through presentations, panel discussions and practical insights, participants will explore developments in sport dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration, integrity, anti-doping and safeguarding, and their implications for the future of Canadian sport.
Day 2 is open to legal professionals, ADR practitioners, academics, law students, sport administrators and other members of the Canadian sport community interested in sport dispute resolution.
Download the Day 2 Program (PDF) (Last updated October 8, 2026)
Conference Speakers
The 2026 SDRCC Conference will feature presentations and panel discussions led by SDRCC mediators and arbitrators, legal practitioners, academics, sport leaders and subject matter experts from across Canada. Speakers will share practical insights, emerging trends and diverse perspectives on the issues shaping the future of sport dispute resolution.
View the Full Speaker List [The Full Speaker List will be available shortly]
Public Registration
Public Registration Fees
| Category | Fee | Registration Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Student | $175 | October 13, 2026 |
| Early Bird | $250 | October 13, 2026 |
| Regular | $350 | October 28,2026 |
*Student rate is limited to the first 10 registrations. Proof of full-time enrolment may be requested.
Registration includes:
- Access to conference sessions on November 14, 2026
- Lunch and scheduled refreshment breaks
- Certificate of attendance for claiming approved continuing professional development (CPD/CLE) credits, where applicable.
Cancellation Policy
Public registration may be transferred to another participant at any time. Cancellations received on or before November 9, 2026 will be refunded minus a 25% administrative fee. Unfortunately, refunds cannot be provided for cancellations received after November 9, 2026.
Venue and Accommodations
The 2026 SDRCC Conference will be held at the Conference Centre at the University of Toronto, located at 89 Chestnut Street in downtown Toronto. The venue is centrally situated and easily accessible by public transit, rail and air travel. Conference sessions will take place in the Terrace and University Rooms on the third floor, and the facility is fully accessible.
A conference rate has been secured at the nearby DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Toronto Downtown, located just steps from the conference venue. Additional details regarding accommodations, transportation, parking and travel discounts are available in the Attendee Information Package.
Download the Attendee Information Package
Additional Information
For additional information, please contact conference@crdsc-sdrcc.ca.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m not an SDRCC Mediator or Arbitrator but would like to attend both days of the conference. Is this possible?
No. Day 1 is reserved for SDRCC Roster and Board members. Day 2 is open to members of the public and eligible registrants.
Can I attend only Day 2 of the conference?
Yes. Public registration is available for Day 2 only.
Will CPD/CLE credits be available?
The SDRCC seeks accreditation from provincial law societies, bar associations and other professional organizations to support participants' continuing professional development requirements. Information regarding approved CPD/CLE credits will be posted on the conference webpage as accreditations are confirmed. Participants who request a certificate of attendance will receive an electronic certificate following the conference.
Will presentation materials be available after the conference?
Conference materials and resources may be shared following the conference, subject to presenter approval.
Do I need to book my own accommodation?
Yes. Participants (including SDRCC Roster members) are responsible for arranging their own accommodations. Information regarding the preferred conference hotel, special conference rates and booking instructions is available in the Attendee Information Package.
What if I need to cancel my registration (public conference)?
Public registrations may be transferred to another participant. Cancellations received on or before November 9, 2026, are eligible for a refund less a 25% administrative fee. Refunds are not available after that date.
