What is a PSO and a DSO?

Provincial Sport Organizations (PSO) and Disability Sport Organizations (DSO) are not-for profit organizations that are recognized by their National Sport Organization as the governing body for their sport in the province.

In B.C. there are 53 Accredited Provincial Sport Organizations and 7 Accredited Disability Sport Organizations ensuring quality experiences for athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers. Clubs that belong to a PSO are committed to meeting the standards of a quality sport experience.  Go to the PSO/DSO Partners page for a complete listing of PSOs and DSOs that are recognized by viaSport.

The role of the PSO is to:

• Lead, develop and promote the sport within the province
• Provide training and professional development for coaches and officials
• Set standards for quality control (coach training, safety, competition, etc.)
• Sanction and host competitions and tournaments
• Nominate high performance athletes to receive access to services through Canadian Sport Institute Pacific
• Determine the team that represents the province at National competitions
• Provide members access to services (e.g - insurance)

The role of viaSport is to:

• Evaluate PSOs against minimum standards for accreditation in order to receive government funding
• Manage government’s investment in PSOs
• Build the capacity of PSOs to achieve standards through program and professional development, knowledge mobilization, and consulting services
• Empower and support sport organizations with the tools and resources to effectively resolve disputes

How do I become an Accredited Provincial Sport Organization? 

Organizations can apply to be a Recognized or Accredited Provincial Sport Organization here.

Apply here

(Note: if your sport is governed by the BC Athletic Commission, their approval will be required before you can proceed with the viaSport recognition process.)