Former Manitoba Lacrosse executive sues organization for wrongful dismissal

A former executive director of the Manitoba Lacrosse Association is suing the organization, alleging wrongful dismissal, repeated harassment, and discrimination tied to his mental health. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods)

A former executive director of the Manitoba Lacrosse Association is suing the organization, alleging wrongful dismissal, repeated harassment, and discrimination tied to his mental health.

According to a statement of claim filed in the Court of King’s Bench of Manitoba, Matthew Mason claims he was terminated from his role as executive director on Aug. 11, 2025, without reasonable notice or compensation.

Mason, who began working with the nonprofit in July 2018, is described in the filing as a “dedicated and valuable employee” who contributed to the growth of lacrosse in Manitoba. However, the suit alleges he became the target of sustained harassment beginning in February 2023 from parents of players involved in the association’s programs.

“This included a number of false and defamatory allegations made against the plaintiff, including that he was incompetent and corrupt and was embezzling the funds of the defendant,” reads the statement of claim filed Monday.

“The harassment and abuse culminated in an online post in July 2025 which alleged the plaintiff was a pedophile.”

The lawsuit claims he repeatedly reported the incidents and their impact on his mental health to the association but alleges the organization failed to take appropriate action to ensure a safe and respectful workplace, as required under the Workplace Safety and Health Act.

According to the suit, Mason discussed his mental health challenges with a board member on Aug. 5, 2025, and was encouraged to consider taking a leave of absence. However, it alleges before he could consult a healthcare provider and make a decision, he was terminated less than a week later.

The filing alleges that during the termination meeting on Aug. 11, board members told him he was “not healthy” and unable to perform his duties. The lawsuit describes the manner of the termination as “harsh, reprehensible and malicious.”

It also claims the association failed to accommodate his disability, in violation of the Human Rights Code.

“The plaintiff has made demands of the defendant for the amounts owing to him, but the defendant has failed or refused to provide the plaintiff with such amounts,” reads the filing.

It claims the employment termination has caused Mason to suffer mental and emotional harm, distress, and injury to dignity and self-respect.

The filing seeks an unspecified amount in damages as well as a declaration that he was wrongfully dismissed.

The Manitoba Lacrosse Association is described as a nonprofit that acts as the recognized lacrosse authority throughout the province, according to its website.

“The (Manitoba Lacrosse Association) is committed to providing not only a safe and fun-filled playing environment but also a sport environment that promotes equal opportunity and prohibits discriminatory practices,” the website notes.

A staffing update posted on Aug. 15, 2025, to its website confirmed Mason was no longer with the organization but did not provide a reason for the change.

The lawsuit claims his employment included a base salary of $60,000 per year, along with a performance-based bonus of up to $3,000 annually.

In a statement, the Manitoba Lacrosse Association declined to comment, as the case is before the courts.

CTV News has reached out to Mason’s lawyer for comment.

None of the claims have been tested in court, and no statement of defence has been filed.