Fekete returns for second year with Rage coaching staff
One of the proudest supporters of female football in Western Canada, Connie Fekete remains at the pulse of the game. More than just an ambassador for the Western Women’s Canadian Football League, her sense of friendship and team-first approach represents what is good about the sport. A key fixture in Calgary football, this former defensive back with the Calgary Rage has successfully made the transition into coaching, helping to bring growth to another aspect of the sport.
With a love of the game also extending to her support of the Calgary Stampeders, Fekete experienced a memorable personal milestone. In the aftermath of the Stampeders defeated the Hamilton Tiger-Cats to capture the 2014 edition of the coveted Grey Cup, Fekete would accumulate a lifetime of memories. Upon their return to Calgary, she was in front of the lens, getting her photograph taken with a group of jubilant players hoisting the Grey Cup. Along with several other members of the Rage family, she has also spent time as an usher at home games. Such memorable experiences with the franchise have certainly made her feel welcome.
“I have a very unique relationship with the Calgary Stampeders. I am lucky enough to call some of them friends, and I am at least familiar with nearly everyone in the organization. They always treat me like one of the family. I have been able to experience more incredible “fan moments” in a few short years than most people do in a lifetime.
The Stampeders organization as a whole, from the president, Gord Norrie, all the way down to the equipment assistants, office staff, ticket office, Stamps Store staff… They are just an amazing team. I cannot adequately express how much I appreciate all they do for me.”
As the 2015 edition of the WWCFL season recently got underway with its annual jamboree (hosted in Medicine Hat, Alberta), it resulted in a series of unique inter-conference matches. Competing against one of the most dominant teams in the Prairie Conference, the Rage graced the gridiron against the Regina Riot. Having won the regular season Prairie Conference title in 2013, the Riot hold the unique distinction of being the only team to defeat the Saskatoon Valkyries.
Although the Rage suffered a loss in the inter-conference clash, the result was a very valiant effort. Not only was it a very good learning opportunity for the players to gain experience competing against teams from the Prairie Conference, it served to provide Fekete with a chance to evaluate talent and sharpen strategies. In reflecting on the loss, Fekete was not only graceful, but showed tremendous sportsmanship, testament to her strong leadership qualities.
“Playing the Regina Riot was a great experience for the Rage. Regina’s situation is somewhat different than ours – they have the luxury of having starters and backups to work with!! While the score of the game was markedly lopsided in Regina’s favour, I am proud of the effort and attitude shown by my Rage players.
Even when working with low numbers, which often meant players playing both offense and defense, our defense still managed to shut down the Riot four times within the red zone. That was no easy task!
Our offense was running without any of our three running backs, among others, and yet the players who stepped into those roles put forth an amazing effort. It was a great learning experience and I wish the Riot well in their season.”
Fekete’s skills as an educator make her a valued member of the Rage coaching staff. Since hanging up her helmet, getting the chance to extend her loyalty towards the team with a coaching role has been a labour of love. As the 2015 edition of the WWCFL season sees Fekete enter her second season as a coach, her sincerity and appreciation for those who have helped her navigate this new journey in her proud career are endearing qualities. While coaching is a continual process of improvement, Fekete’s greatest asset may be her willingness to learn. Employing great maturity, she is gracious in recognizing the potential for growth. Such a positive outlook helps set a strong tone with her players, simultaneously inspiring and motivating.
“I have had the privilege of working with some amazing, experienced coaches who are incredible mentors. (I would name them, but I am afraid I would miss someone!! They know who they are…) My learning curve has been extremely steep! Because of the talent of these coaches and their willingness to teach me, I am much more comfortable in my role this season. I still have so much to learn, but I am thoroughly enjoying every step of the process.”
“All quotes obtained first hand unless otherwise indicated”
Photo credit: Candice Ward
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