Saskatchewan hands the National Indigenous team their first loss in a decisive 51-6 victory, securing 5th place in the 2024 U18 Women’s National Championship
July 28, 2024, Fredericton, NB – Saskatchewan secured a dominant 51-6 victory over the National Indigenous team in the 5th Place Playoff of the 2024 U18 Women’s National Championship at BMO Centre in Fredericton, NB, on Sunday afternoon.
Saskatchewan’s offense proved unstoppable, with quarterback Ella Schenher leading the charge. Schenher rushed for an impressive 267 yards and two touchdowns on just 9 carries, including electrifying runs of 83 and 81 yards in the first quarter. Hannah Wilker contributed significantly, rushing for 119 yards and two touchdowns while also passing for 125 yards.
Saskatchewan built a commanding 44-0 lead by halftime, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive strength. The National Indigenous team showed resilience in the third quarter when Aurora McCutcheon connected with Taj-Marie Thompson for a 52-yard touchdown pass, their lone score of the game.
Sienna Berns made a significant impact on special teams for Saskatchewan, amassing 120 punt return yards and scoring a touchdown. On defense, Sienna Berns led with 7 solo tackles and 1 assist.
For the National Indigenous team, Taj-Marie Thompson was a bright spot, catching 9 passes for 232 yards and their only touchdown. Defensively, Justice Berens stood out with 15 solo tackles.
This victory allows Saskatchewan (2-1) to finish the tournament on a high note, while the National Indigenous team (2-1) can take pride in their improved performance compared to previous years.
MVP’s of the Game
National Indigenous
Offensive
RB – Taj-Marie Thompson
Defensive
DB – Justice Berens
Saskatchewan
Offensive
QB – Hannah Wilker
Defensive
LB – Rayna James
About U18 Women’s National Championship: The U18 Women’s National Championship is a premier event in the Canadian football calendar, showcasing the best young female talent from across the country. This tournament serves as a crucial platform for player development and provides a pathway for athletes aspiring to compete at higher levels, including national team programs.
About Football Canada: Football Canada is the national governing body for amateur football in Canada. Football Canada’s mission is to initiate, sustain, and encourage programs, services, and activities targeted at all levels of the game of football in Canada. The organization oversees various programs and competitions, including national championships, coach and official certification programs, and national team programs for tackle, flag, and touch football. Football Canada is committed to fostering the growth and development of football at all levels across the country.
About Football New Brunswick: Football New Brunswick is the provincial sport governing body for amateur football in New Brunswick. The organization is dedicated to promoting, developing, and governing all aspects of football within the province. Football New Brunswick works tirelessly to provide opportunities for athletes, coaches, and officials at all levels of the sport. Through various programs and initiatives, they aim to increase participation, improve the quality of play, and create a positive and inclusive football community throughout New Brunswick. As hosts of this year’s U18 Women’s National Championship, Football New Brunswick demonstrates its commitment to advancing women’s football and showcasing the province’s sporting capabilities on a national stage.
For more information about the 2024 U18 Women’s National Championship, visit footballcanada.com or contact bstachel@footballcanada.com.
