Celebrating Canadian Women’s History Month Through Sport. Step Up. Speak Up. Play

Every October, Canada celebrates Women’s History Month. This is a time to honour the women who have shaped our country and continue to influence its future. This tradition began in 1992, coinciding with Persons Day on October 18. This day remembers the 1929 ruling, less than 100 years ago, that recognized women as “persons” under Canadian law. This ruling allowed them to serve in the Senate.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that not all women were included in this milestone. Indigenous, Black, Chinese, South Asian, and Japanese women, among others, were still denied full legal rights until decades later, well into the mid-1900s.

This milestone reminds us that progress doesn’t happen on its own. It comes from women who refuse to stay quiet, challenge norms, and create paths for others to follow. If they had stayed silent, younger generations might not understand that they have the right or the confidence to step into roles in sports.

Courage Creates Opportunity  

Leadership in sports requires courage. Across Canada, women have taken on roles that were historically held by men. They show that the next generation can lead too. Jo-Anne Polak, the first female general manager in CFL history, reflected on her groundbreaking role. She said, “It was about keeping the team afloat, but also about proving that women could lead in spaces traditionally dominated by men.” Polak’s pioneering example shows that moving forward, even when the odds are against you, is how barriers are broken.  

Empowering the Next Generation  

Creating opportunities for others means believing in the next generation. Coaches and educators play a vital role in this. Tiffany Hall, Assistant Coach and Offensive Coordinator for the Sheridan Bruins, says, ‘Coaching is about empowering athletes to believe in themselves and each other.’ Her colleague, Alysha Emerson, adds, ‘It’s about creating opportunities for women to lead and excel in sports.’ Their words remind us that mentorship and encouragement matter just as much as skills on the field. Sheridan continues to lead the way as the first college in Canada to make flag football a varsity sport, an achievement that reflects the spirit of Women’s History Month and the ongoing fight for equity in sport.

Taking Action Inspires Change  

Athletes can lead by example and show the next generation that participation is not just possible; it’s expected. Nadia Doucouré, one of the first full-time female CFL coaches, captures this sentiment. She says, “I want to show that it’s possible. I want to be a role model for young women who think they can’t do it.” Her presence in professional football shows women belong in areas where men have traditionally held the spotlight. Having played for Team France, Nadia continues to shape and grow the flag football community as a Coach for the Ottawa Hawks.

Rachel Lessard, recently named Head Coach of Canada’s Women’s National Flag Football Team, highlights how leadership at the highest levels can shape the future. As she shared in her appointment announcement, “This is not just about competing, it’s about building a legacy that inspires young girls across Canada to see themselves in this game.” Their success can inspire others to chase their dreams.

Sport for Everyone  

Equity in sport isn’t just about professional leagues or big programs, it’s about making sure every athlete has a chance to play. Jenn Talbot, recipient of the True Sport Award, co-created a high school wheelchair basketball program to give all students that opportunity. “We wanted to provide a platform where every student, regardless of ability, could experience the joy and empowerment of sport,” she explained. Her leadership shows how inclusivity drives real change, from adaptive programs to her recent push for girls’ and boys’ flag football to be included in schools across Ottawa.

Moving Forward Together  

Canadian Women’s History Month reminds us history isn’t just about looking back; it’s about what we are building today. Every woman who steps on the field, coaches a team, or starts a program is writing the next chapter in Canadian women’s history.  

At Ottawa Women’s Football, we are proud to contribute to this story. By offering inclusive programs in flag football, we continue a legacy of courage and opportunity. When the next generation sees women leading on and off the field, they’ll understand they too belong. Those who came before us refused to stay silent. 

Step Up. Speak Up. Play!

Coach Steph