Saskatoon Valkyries capture 9th WWCFL Title, Defeating Regina Riot 36-21
June 24, 2024 — Saskatoon, SK — The Saskatoon Valkyries have solidified their place as a powerhouse in Canadian women’s football, securing their ninth Western Women’s Canadian Football League championship on Sunday night with a decisive 36-21 victory over the Regina Riot at Leibel Field in Regina. The victory marks the Valkyries’ fourth consecutive title since the league resumed in 2022, with prior seasons in 2020 and 2021 cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Valkyries wasted no time establishing dominance, opening the scoring midway through the first quarter when quarterback Alex Eyolfson connected with standout receiver and game MVP Haley Girolami for a touchdown, quickly converted by Grace Moehler for a 7-0 lead. Moehler extended the lead in the second quarter with a 29-yard field goal, pushing Saskatoon further ahead. A crucial turning point occurred shortly afterward: following a Regina interception, Valkyries’ defensive back Danielle Girolami responded with an interception of her own, returning it for a pick-six to give the Valkyries a commanding lead, with Moehler again adding the extra point.
By halftime, the Valkyries had built a 26-0 advantage, forcing the Riot to concede a safety and adding another touchdown from Eyolfson to Girolami. Moehler continued her reliable performance, notching a 25-yard field goal in the third quarter, bringing the score to 29-0. The Riot finally broke through with a touchdown in the third quarter, narrowing the gap to 29-7.
The Valkyries responded with a strategic play in the fourth quarter, faking a punt with a direct snap to running back Sarah Wright, who carried the ball to the one-yard line. Emmarae Dale finished the drive with a touchdown, further extending Saskatoon’s lead to 36-7. Despite the Riot’s late-game efforts, including two touchdowns and a two-point conversion, the Valkyries maintained control to secure the championship victory.
The Riot, led by veteran quarterback Aimee Kowalski, entered the game with high hopes of dethroning their provincial rivals, having narrowly lost to the Valkyries earlier in the season.
The Valkyries’ balanced offence and defensive resilience proved too strong for the Riot, despite Regina’s attempts to counteract their strategies. Riot head coach Kris Hadesbeck had praised Kowalski’s return and leadership, calling her “one of the best QBs in the country, if not the world, for women’s football” [MEDIA OUTLET]. However, Saskatoon’s well-rounded play and depth ultimately secured the title.
This win continues the Valkyries’ storied dominance in the WWCFL, a league they have led since its formation in 2011. The Valkyries look forward to building on their momentum and celebrating another championship season with their fans and supporters in Saskatoon.
About the Western Women’s Canadian Football League (WWCFL)
The Western Women’s Canadian Football League (WWCFL) was established in 2011 and is dedicated to providing women in Western Canada with opportunities to play competitive tackle football. The league includes teams from Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Manitoba, and it is focused on growing the sport among women and creating a welcoming, inclusive community for all athletes. The WWCFL offers a platform for athletes to showcase their skills, build lasting relationships, and promote the sport of women’s football across Canada.
About Football Canada
Football Canada is the national governing body for amateur football in Canada, established in 1884 to foster and grow the sport at all levels. From grassroots programs to national championships, Football Canada is committed to providing positive, inclusive, and safe football experiences across the country. By supporting players, coaches, and officials, Football Canada strives to promote athletic excellence, sportsmanship, and the values of teamwork and perseverance in communities from coast to coast.
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