Girls’ tackle football gaining momentum in Alberta with new U16 showcase

The popularity of tackle football is on the rise among females in Alberta, and one organization is hoping to offer an earlier path into the sport.

The popularity of girls’ tackle football continues to grow in Alberta, and a new tournament is helping create a pathway for younger athletes to stay in the sport.

This summer, nearly 90 players from Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan gathered for the inaugural U16 Female Football Western Showcase, giving young athletes the opportunity to compete, develop their skills and connect with others who share their passion for the game.

Among them are Team Alberta players Tylene Lewis and Astoria Wetherell.

Lewis, 14, has been playing football for two years and says she enjoys the excitement of the game. “I just really like running and mostly catching the ball. We didn’t do many pass plays, but it’s still fun,” Lewis said.

Wetherell, 15, is much newer to the sport, having started playing just two months ago. A soccer player and goalkeeper, she says football combines many of the skills she already enjoys.

“I can kick and I can tackle. I just love everything about it. It’s like everything all in one, but better,” Wetherell said.

Adjusting to football equipment was one of her biggest challenges.

“Probably having to get used to all this stuff and figuring out how to properly put the equipment on. But besides that, I loved it,” she added.

The showcase was created by Football Alberta’s female development director, Elisha Torraville, who says expanding opportunities for younger players is critical to growing the women’s game.

“This is the next step in growing the female game,” Torraville said.

A former player with the Calgary Rage women’s football team, Torraville says a lack of player development opportunities inspired the tournament. “We don’t have a pathway. Trying to build something starting at 18 plus doesn’t make sense,” she said.

Beyond playing, the showcase also introduces participants to other roles in football, including coaching, officiating, and leadership.

“It’s about highlighting women in football in every role, including officiating, coaching, playing and organizing,” Torraville said.

For Lewis, competing against other female athletes provides added motivation and a clear goal for the future.

“It gives me something to look forward to. During my bantam season, I know if I keep practising, I’ll have the opportunity to move up and play at a higher level with all the girls,” she said.