St. Clair Saints Capture 116th Canadian Bowl Championship, Ending Ontario’s 25-Year Title Drought
Photo Credits: Matt Sykes
WINDSOR, ON – The St. Clair Saints delivered an unforgettable comeback on Saturday, November 9th, claiming the 116th Canadian Bowl title with a decisive 37-22 win over the Okanagan Sun at Acumen Stadium. With this victory, the Saints ended Ontario’s 25-year title drought in the Canadian Junior Football League National Championship, marking their fourth Canadian Bowl win and first since 1999.
The Saints’ season has been nothing short of extraordinary, capped by an undefeated run through the Ontario Football Conference (OFC) and culminating with a 75-39 win over the London Beefeaters to secure their place in the Canadian Bowl. Quarterback Maurice Sodja and a high-scoring offence, averaging 61.5 points per game in the regular season, had consistently proven to be a powerhouse. Despite injuries, the Saints showed unmatched depth and grit, with standout performances from players like Sodja, wide receivers Darius France and Cameron St. Kitts-Park, and All-Canadian defensive lineman Jaylin Burnett.
On the other side, the Okanagan Sun entered the game with an unblemished 13-0 record, which included a dominant 28-14 win over the Regina Thunder in the Prairie Football Conference (PFC) final. Key players such as running back Elelyon Noa, who set a British Columbia Football Conference (BCFC) record with 1,612 rushing yards, and linebacker Jacob Bond, their top tackler, anchored a team known for its effective defensive play and efficient offence.
A Game of Two Halves
The Sun opened the scoring with a passing touchdown on their first drive, quieting the energetic Saints crowd and establishing an early 7-0 lead. St. Clair responded with a single, a safety, and a 24-yard field goal by kicker Jack Lewis, narrowing the gap to 7-6. However, a late first-half touchdown by the Sun extended their lead to 15-6 by halftime, with the Saints struggling to find their rhythm.
After a lively Herc’s Halftime Show and a performance by NorthStar Cheer, the Saints returned with renewed energy. Jack Lewis added another field goal to start the second half, but the Sun quickly countered with a 70-yard touchdown by Ty Walker, stretching their lead to 22-9.
In the closing minutes of the third quarter, momentum shifted dramatically. Sodja led a swift comeback, rushing for two touchdowns within two minutes, pushing the Saints ahead 23-22. The go-ahead touchdown was set up by a crucial interception from Billy Patterson Jr., which gave the Saints excellent field position.
The Saints continued to capitalize on their defensive strength early in the fourth quarter, as defensive end Anthony Adams recovered a fumble near the Sun’s goal line. This set up Sodja’s third rushing touchdown, pushing the Saints’ lead to 30-22. With seven minutes remaining, Sodja sealed the game with an 11-yard touchdown pass to Tai Colquhoun, extending St. Clair’s lead to 37-22.
The Saints’ defence, led by Anthony Adams, Nick Carter, and Gamy Kazadi, took control when it mattered most. Forcing five turnovers, they consistently thwarted the Sun’s efforts to regain momentum. Adams recorded four tackles, a sack, and two fumble recoveries, while Kazadi, a former Okanagan player, contributed with a forced fumble and four tackles. Defensive tackle Kendy Montoban played a pivotal role in containing Okanagan’s potent rushing game, adding a sack and a tackle for loss.
For his leadership and clutch performance, Sodja was named Offensive Player of the Game, having accounted for nearly 350 yards and four total touchdowns. Special Teams Player of the Game honours went to Cameron St. Kitts-Park, who, despite only recently taking on punting duties, excelled with several key punts and returns. St. Kitts-Park also led all receivers with 167 yards on five receptions, making him one of the game’s most valuable players.
The Okanagan Sun’s remarkable season may have ended in disappointment, but their journey to the Canadian Bowl was filled with accolades and records. Their defence was anchored by Jacob Bond, who earned Defensive Player of the Game honours, and their offence was spearheaded by Elelyon Noa, who was named CJFL Outstanding Offensive Player of the Year. Noa’s BCFC record-breaking 1,612 rushing yards and the contributions of CJFL Offensive Rookie of the Year quarterback Marek Filipek showcased the strength of the Sun’s roster, providing a glimpse into a bright future.
St. Clair College now lays claim to being the first college team to capture s CJFL National Championship. More than 2,500 fans filled the stands at Acumen Stadium, with additional seating needing to be erected due to demand.
Game Day Ceremonies and Special Recognitions
The game day festivities included a rendition of the Canadian National Anthem by local Windsor musicians Jody Raffoul, Jeff Burrows, and Kelly Hoppe of the S’Aints band, who were joined by the Windsor Police Services Honour Guard and Canadian Forces Veteran Captain Eric Willson at midfield. MPP Andrew Dowie, CJFL President Jim Pankovich, OFC President Darren Cocchetto, and BCFC President Tyler McLaren participated in the ceremonial coin toss.
At the CJFL National Championship banquet on Friday night, Mike Morencie, St. Clair’s General Manager and Defensive Coordinator, received the honour of CJFL Life Member for his extensive service and commitment to the game and league.
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 compete 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 promotes sportsmanship, education, and community involvement while developing young athletes both on and off the field.
About Football Canada
Football Canada is the national governing body for amateur football in Canada, dedicated to developing and promoting the sport at all levels, from grassroots to high-performance national teams. Established in 1884, Football Canada oversees programs and competitions that engage players, coaches, and officials nationwide. Through partnerships with leagues like the CJFL, Football Canada plays a vital role in shaping the future of football in the country.
Contact Information:
Braydon Stachel
Marketing and Communications Manager
Football Canada
bstachel@footballcanada.com
