Sabrina Gervais, an experienced flag football player, mother, and healthcare professional, is aiming to fulfill a new aspiration by leading Canada’s national women’s team at the 2026 world championship. This tournament not only presents an opportunity for Canada to pursue a gold medal but also to secure a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where flag football will be making its Olympic debut.
Expressing her excitement, Gervais shared, “It would be realizing a dream I would’ve never dreamt before. I never thought about the Olympics, but now that I’m still in the loop, I think the chances are good if I can stay healthy and continue to be a leader for my team. That would definitely be a dream come true.”
The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championship commences in Düsseldorf, Germany, with Canada scheduled to play against Panama and Brazil before facing Japan. The top two teams will secure Olympic berths, with a potential third spot if the United States reaches the gold-medal game due to their host status.
Canada, seen as a strong contender for the gold medal in Germany, earned its place in the world championship by finishing as a finalist in last year’s IFAF Americas Continental championship. Despite facing Mexico in the final and experiencing a weather-related halt, Canada is determined to showcase their improvements in the upcoming matches.
With a bronze medal from the 2025 World Games in China, Canada has established itself as a formidable force in women’s flag football. Gervais, a key figure in the team, highlighted the importance of resilience, teamwork, and mentorship in their pursuit of success on and off the field.
As the championship unfolds, Gervais remains focused on taking each day as it comes without losing sight of the impact she can make on the sport and the next generation of players. She emphasized the significance of unity and chemistry within the team, underscoring the collective strength that sets Canada apart.
Gervais attributed much of Canada’s success to head coach Rachel Lessard, acknowledging her leadership and values that have propelled the team forward. Looking ahead, Gervais remains grounded in the present, cherishing her love for the game and the opportunity to inspire others through her dedication and perseverance.