Saskatoon Hilltops Capture their 24th Canadian Bowl with Victory Over Okanagan Sun
SASKATOON, SK (November 9, 2025) — The Saskatoon Hilltops are once again national champions, capturing their record 24th Canadian Bowl title with a 21–18 win over the Okanagan Sun at SMF Field.
The championship matchup featured two of the Canadian Junior Football League’s premier programs — the Hilltops, appearing in their 24th national final, and the previously unbeaten Sun, pursuing their fourth title.
Both defences set the tone early, with the opening quarter producing only a safety for each side and a 2–2 tie. In the second quarter, Saskatoon’s ground game came alive as running back David Collins scored twice to give the Hilltops a 16–2 lead. A late safety conceded by Saskatoon narrowed the margin to 16–4 at halftime.
The Okanagan Sun responded in the second half with a rushing touchdown to cut the deficit to 16–11. Another safety, this time against Okanagan, extended Saskatoon’s lead to 18–11 heading into the fourth quarter. The Sun tied the game 18–18 with just over a minute remaining, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
With 28 seconds left on the clock, kicker Ryden Gratton converted a 37-yard field goal to secure the 21–18 victory for Saskatoon.
Collins finished with 26 carries for 143 yards and two touchdowns, earning Offensive Player of the Game honours. Gratton’s late field goal capped a strong defensive and special teams performance that preserved the win on home turf.
The victory marks Saskatoon’s first Canadian Bowl title at home since 2018 and their second national championship in three seasons, following their 2023 triumph. The Hilltops’ season included early setbacks — including a season-opening loss to the Winnipeg Rifles and mid-season injuries at quarterback — but the team rebounded to win the Prairie Football Conference final over the Regina Thunder and ultimately claim the national crown.
With the win, the Hilltops further extend their position as the most successful program in CJFL history, continuing a tradition of excellence that has spanned generations.
