Sabrina Gervais, a mother, healthcare professional, and seasoned flag football player, is aiming to expand her accolades by competing in the 2026 world championship as she leads Canada’s national women’s team. The team’s goal extends beyond securing a gold medal at the championship; they are also eyeing a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Games, where flag football will make 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.”
The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championship kicks off in Düsseldorf, Germany, with Canada set to face Panama and Brazil before a match against Japan. The top two teams will secure Olympic berths, with a possibility for a third if the United States advances to the gold medal game due to their host status in the 2028 Olympics.
Although the world championship is a crucial Olympic qualifying event, failing to secure a spot in Germany would mean participating in the IFAF continental championship next year and the final Olympic qualifier series in 2028.
Canada, a strong contender for a gold medal, earned its place in the world championship after finishing as runner-up in the previous IFAF Americas Continental championship. Despite facing adverse weather conditions last year, resulting in a halted game against Mexico, Gervais remains optimistic about a potential rematch in Germany.
Reflecting on their bronze medal win at the 2025 World Games in China, Gervais acknowledged that Canada’s performance has garnered attention, especially after defeating the U.S. in a recent match. She emphasized the team’s focus on delivering their best performance to achieve favorable outcomes.
Gervais, with 24 years of flag football experience, balances her athletic pursuits with motherhood and a full-time career in healthcare. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, patience, and self-care in maintaining her performance on the field while also mentoring younger players to help them navigate challenges.
Recognizing the significance of teamwork and unity, Gervais credits head coach Rachel Lessard for Canada’s success on the global stage. She emphasized the team’s chemistry as a key strength that contributes to their competitive edge.
Taking a day-by-day approach, Gervais remains committed to her passion for flag football without getting ahead of herself regarding potential future achievements. She aims to continue making a positive impact both on and off the field, inspiring the next generation of players with her dedication and determination.