Okanagan Sun beat Regina Thunder in the 2024 CJFL National Semi-Final to Advance to the 116th Canadian Bowl
Photo Credits: Eric Stansfield
The Okanagan Sun secured their spot in the Canadian Bowl on Sunday, October, 27th with a 28-14 victory over the Regina Thunder at Leibel Field in Regina. The victory marks yet another chapter in the Sun’s impressive run under Head Coach Travis Miller.
Despite facing challenges on a windy Saskatchewan afternoon, the Okanagan Sun dominated key moments of the game, particularly in the second half. The team’s defensive unit played a pivotal role, tightening their coverage and holding the Thunder to just a field goal over the final 30 minutes.
Running back Elelyon Noa and linebacker Jacob Bond were the standout performers, earning offensive and defensive MVP honours, respectively. Noa rushed for nearly 100 yards and a crucial fourth-quarter touchdown. He also showcased his versatility by completing a pivotal two-point conversion pass out of the wildcat formation, sealing the game’s final score. Bond, meanwhile, made his mark early by running in a third-and-goal touchdown to give the Sun the lead in the first quarter.
After an initial exchange of scores, the Thunder managed to briefly hold an 8-7 advantage, capitalizing on a Sun fumble with a successful field goal. However, the Sun quickly responded with a game-changing interception from defensive back David Lewis, who picked off a pass and returned it 73 yards for a touchdown, swinging the momentum in favour of Okanagan.
In the third quarter, the Thunder tied the game with another field goal, but that would be their final scoring contribution. The Sun’s offence responded with two crucial field goals by kicker Liam Attwood, extending their lead to 20-14. Late in the fourth quarter, Elelyon Noa broke free for a 17-yard touchdown run to solidify the win, followed by a successful two-point conversion attempt that deflected off a defender into the waiting hands of linebacker Mitchell Hickingbottom.
Defensively, the Sun showed their mettle by limiting the Thunder to just 59 rushing yards in the second half and forcing two key turnovers, including a fumble recovery and an interception by Vicente Ferreira. The Thunder’s passing game also struggled under the Sun’s relentless pressure, completing only 94 yards through the air.
With this win, the Okanagan Sun advance to face the St. Clair Saints in the 116th Canadian Bowl, which will be held on November 9th at Acumen Stadium in Windsor. The Sun’s recent success in road games to Saskatchewan, historically a challenging environment, speaks volumes about the growth and tenacity of this team in recent years.
The Canadian Bowl matchup between the Sun and the Saints will be a rematch of their 2022 Intergold Cup match up, where the Sun emerged victorious on their way to a national championship.
About the CJFL
The Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL) is a national amateur football organization that provides opportunities for players aged 17 to 22 to play at a highly competitive level across Canada. Established in 1974, the CJFL comprises multiple conferences, including the British Columbia Football Conference, Prairie Football Conference, and Ontario Football Conference. The league is dedicated to fostering the development of young athletes both on and off the field, promoting sportsmanship, education, and community involvement. Through its commitment to excellence, the CJFL plays a crucial role in the growth of Canadian football, serving as a bridge to higher levels of the sport.
About Football Canada
Football Canada is the national governing body for amateur football in Canada, committed to developing and promoting the sport at all levels—from grassroots to high-performance national teams. Founded in 1884, Football Canada oversees programs and competitions that engage players, coaches, and officials across the country. The organization strives to foster a safe and inclusive environment, emphasizing the values of teamwork, respect, and excellence. Through partnerships with leagues like the CJFL and initiatives in player development and coaching education, Football Canada plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of football in the nation.
Contact Information:
Braydon Stachel
Marketing and Communications Manager
Football Canada
bstachel@footballcanada.com
