(originally published Nov. 2002)

Canadian ASL players have long been united by a game, yet separated by geography. This has been a long standing problem that needed addressing. Through the formation of a Canadian ASL Association, we hope to rectify this situation.jimmcloud

Founded in March of 1997 by myself, the Canadian ASL Association (CASLA) was created to put Canadian ASL players in touch with each other through a player directory and the CASLA News-Journal, the “Maple Leaf Route.” This endeavour has been a success to a degree.

Beginning 2002 Nov 02, the CASLA has officially entered a new era in it’s existence. In the past, the CASLA members were names on a player directory and the Canadian ASL Open was run on the whim of the CASLA director. As of now, the CASLA is comprised of both Charter and Associate Members and has an elected Executive who perform certain functions within the CASLA.

Charter Members (CM’s) have paid to become CM’s. They have a vote on matters regarding the CASLA and they may serve on the CASLA Executive. All other non-Charter CASLA members are Associate Members who, while still members of the CASLA, do not have the the same priviledges as the CM’s. Currently, there are CM’s from Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba and Alberta.

The election of the Executive was held during our first “Virtual Meeting” (VM). This VM was a week long discussion by the CM’s of Proposals on a VM Agenda . As far as I know, this is the first time an ASL group has met in this manner. Having seen the VM function, I can safely say that it is indeed a viable means for the CM’s to meet and discuss matters regarding the CASLA. Separation by geography is no longer a problem in this regard.

How the CASLA and the CASLO function is defined in the CASLA Charter. This document will evolve over time.

The primary function of the CASLA is the sponsoring and running of the Canadian ASL Open Tournament. This is where all of the CM’s membership fees will be directed.

Another important decision by the CM’s during this VM was to allow the CASLO to move from city to city within Canada. In doing so, the CASLA hopes to increase national participation in the CASLO.