Appeal Process
If you disagree with a decision, you may have the right to appeal. Learn about the grounds, timelines, and steps involved.
Download Appeal InformationAn appeal is not a re-hearing of the original complaint. It is a review of whether the process was fair, the decision was reasonable, or new evidence warrants reconsideration.
Grounds for Appeal
Procedural Unfairness
A significant procedural error occurred during the complaint process that affected the outcome.
New Evidence
New and material evidence has become available that was not reasonably accessible at the time of the original decision.
Unreasonable Decision
The decision or sanction imposed was clearly unreasonable in light of the evidence and applicable policy.
Bias or Conflict
The decision-maker had a conflict of interest or demonstrated bias that affected the fairness of the process.
How to File an Appeal
Review the Decision
Carefully review the written decision and identify the specific grounds on which you wish to appeal. Note the deadline — appeals must typically be filed within a prescribed number of days of receiving the decision.
Submit a Request
Submit a Request to the Safeguarding Tribunal of the SDRCC.
SDRCC Safeguarding TribunalAccepting/Rejecting Appeal
The SDRCC will review the request and determine whether the appeal falls within its jurisdiction and meets the criteria for acceptance.
Follow the SDRCC Process
The SDRCC will provide information regarding whether the appeal is accepted and the process forward. Their process is governed by the SDRCC 2025 Canadian Sport Dispute Resolution Code.
2025 Canadian Sport Dispute Resolution CodeAppeal Decision
If the SDRCC accepts jurisdiction of the appeal, the SDRCC will issue a decision which will be binding on all parties.
Important: Deadlines Apply
Appeals must be filed within the deadline specified in the applicable policy. Missing the deadline may result in your appeal being dismissed. Review the Appeal Information document carefully and contact us if you have questions about your timeline.
Download Appeal Information PDFQuestions about the appeal process?
Contact Sport Dispute Management Inc. for guidance.
Need to review the full process?
See the step-by-step complaint process from submission to resolution.