Sabrina Gervais, a mother, healthcare professional, and experienced flag football player, is aiming to add “Olympian” to her list of achievements. Leading Canada’s national women’s team into the 2026 world championship, Gervais and her team are not only eyeing a gold medal but also a ticket to the 2028 Los Angeles Games, where flag football will debut as an Olympic sport.
The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championship kicks off in Düsseldorf, Germany, with Canada set to face Panama, Brazil, and Japan in the initial matches. The top two teams will secure direct Olympic berths, with a potential third spot opening up if the United States advances to the gold-medal game due to their host status.
Despite the ongoing Olympic qualification opportunities, failing to secure a spot in Germany would require teams to participate in subsequent events leading up to the 2028 Olympics. Canada, a strong contender for gold, earned its world championship spot by finishing as runners-up in the previous IFAF Americas Continental championship.
Gervais, hailing from Maskinonge, Que., is optimistic about Canada’s chances, especially against Mexico, whom they faced last year in adverse weather conditions. With past successes, including a bronze medal at the 2025 World Games, Canada is becoming a recognized force in women’s flag football internationally.
Beyond her athletic pursuits, Gervais, a 36-year-old veteran in the field, balances her football career with motherhood and a full-time profession as an osteopath and kinesiologist. She emphasizes the importance of rest, proper nutrition, and mentorship in her role as a team leader, working closely with head coach Rachel Lessard to foster team unity and success.
Looking ahead, Gervais remains focused on the present, taking each day as it comes without setting definitive retirement plans or fixating on potential future accomplishments. She values the opportunity to inspire others through her dedication and believes in the impact she can make both on and off the field with the upcoming generation of players.