Steel empowerment

Kowalchuk an empowerment figure for Lethbridge Steel

One of the leaders for the three-time Western Conference champion Lethbridge Steel, Erin Kowalchuk is proud to be among the pioneers competing in the Western Women’s Canadian Football League. Donning number 8, the graduate of the University of Lethbridge has a solid sporting background that provided her with the confidence to pursue football.

“I had played rugby for 4 years and wanted to try something similar but different. I saw a poster for a new all-women’s team. I quickly chose to join and have never regretted it!”

As a side note, Kowalchuk currently competes with three different soccer teams in Lethbridge. In addition to playing, she is also a soccer coach. The values of team work and effort that she has learned in football translate very well to her coaching experience.

Despite suffering from an injury during the 2014 campaign, Kowalchuk’s heart was always close to the team. Her commitment to the purple and silver set a positive example, proving that leadership also comes off the field. “I supported them at games, fundraisers, team get-togethers and always tried to help them in times of need.”

That support paid positive dividends as the Steel successfully established themselves once again as an elite club in the WWCFL’s Western Conference. Although Kowalchuk had to watch from the sidelines, the jubilation of seeing the Steel emerge with its third straight conference crown was one that she reflects on with fondness.

“I have to say the greatest moment was the team winning the western conference for the third year in a row! Even though I was injured for the final game it was still so rewarding to be there and feel the unity and team love.”

One of Kowalchuk’s great qualities is her ability to encourage and empower others. Not only does she donate her time to coaching soccer, she teaches Sunday school and helps teach physical education to a mentally handicapped class. With the goal of becoming a school teacher, Kowalchuk has established herself as a role model in her community.

The positive impact that she has on and off the field is certainly a source of inspiration. In asking if she would have any advice for women that want to try football, she responded with great enthusiasm,

“DO IT!!! It is the greatest choice you will ever make. Not only do you get to be physically active but you will gain a family of 30 other women who would do anything for you! It truly is the definition of a family!”

“All quotes obtained first hand unless otherwise indicated”
Image obtained from: https://www.facebook.com/LethbridgeSteel