Achi news desk-
University flag football players from across Ontario came together to compete for the title as Laurier University hosted the Ontario Women’s Intercollegiate Soccer Association championship weekend.
The 11v11 associate flag football final featured two days of replays at Alumni Field, featuring teams from Laurier University, Laurier University Brantford, University of Guelph, McMaster University, Queens University, Western University, University of Toronto, and York University.
More than a sport
Despite fierce competition on the field, some players said the weekend was about much more than just taking home a trophy.
“It’s amazing to see women’s sports grow,” said Laurier University Brantford player Aqsa Sidhu.
“It’s amazing to see flag football and women growing as a unit. Yes, we are all playing against each other, but we all know we are playing for the same cause. It’s great to see everyone out here giving their hearts on the line and on the field for their team,” said Sidhu.
For Brantford’s Laurier University teammate and newcomer to the sport, Nia Maidens, flag football offered a new sense of community.
“I think it’s beautiful, especially for someone who has never played flag football, without understanding the game. As my first year, especially with such a supportive team and coaches, it’s amazing. It’s such a welcoming committee and group and it’s wonderful to see how quickly it’s grown and I can’t wait to see where it goes,” Maidens told CTV News.
“It’s not just a sport, it’s a family,” Sidhu said.
“You’ll learn that very quickly when you join. It’s more than just football. It’s about everything we do on and off the field, not just for your teammates and your sisters out there, but for women in general and sport and growing. [the sport] and to be recognized for all the hard work and effort and know that we can play at as high a level as any man could.”
Despite a tough 16 – 3 loss to Queens University, the women from Brantford’s Laurier University still had smiles on their faces on Sunday afternoon, and encouraged more people to try the sport.
“I gave it a chance, and they’re right, I love it,” said Brantford Laurier University player Grace Perdomo.
“I love these girls. Everyone was so welcoming. How could you hate him?”
Final game
The final game came down to Western University and Queens University.
Ultimately, the Western University Mustangs defended their championship title, and lifted the cup on Sunday afternoon.
