Chance encounter

Graham credits unque experience in guidance towards Steel’s 2015 rookie class

In what has already proven to be a groundbreaking season for the Lethbridge Steel, with Kessie Stefanyk becoming the first female head coach in the history of the WWCFL, another exciting source of enthusiasm stems from the rookie class ready to contribute to sporting equality. Among them is Sharla Graham, a lifelong athlete, proud to be among the sorority of women suiting up for the silver and purple.

During childhood, Graham enjoyed participating in neighborhood games, but the concept of an all-female football league was not yet envisioned. Despite this, Graham’s love of sport was satisfied through other activities, instilling the values of hard work and a team effort,

“When I was younger I always enjoyed throwing the ball around with the guys. Yet, back then there was no such thing as women’s football. In fact, back then, there were no women playing male sports such as football or hockey. Growing up I played Ringette for 15 years, softball and basketball. I never considered football because it was never an option.”

The opportunity to compete in football presented itself in the unlikeliest place for Graham. A chance encounter with a next door neighbor would alter her athletic destiny, allowing her the opportunity to take part in one of the fastest growing sports for women in Alberta,

“Back in February my neighbor Leigh asked me if I would be interested in playing football. At first I thought she was talking about a friendly game between neighbors but she went on saying there was a league and teams so I said, ‘Yeah sure, why not.’

Later that day I texted her saying, ‘Are we playing touch or flag football?’ When she told me full tackle football, I could not believe it. I was so excited. I did not hesitate I jumped right in. At first I was really nervous to play because I knew nothing about football.”

A significant network of support for Graham in her decision to grace the gridiron comes from her family. From her husband Tyler, to her children Madison and Parker, they have shared in her exciting gridiron journey. With extended family hailing from Saskatchewan, the hub of football in Canada, the feeling of encouragement was one that Graham felt from the very beginning,

“Well, I knew there was a quarter back but that is about it, even though my family are huge football freaks…I mean fans…they are from Regina, Saskatchewan, so that should explain everything (laughs). Anyways, the team was so welcoming and ready to answer any questions I had, that I felt right at home, they are like family now.”

Making her debut in the Steel’s season opener, a 7-6 win over the Calgary Rage, it would prove to be a historic day not just in franchise history, but in league history. Steel head coach Kessie Stefanyk made headlines as the first female coach in WWCFL history to win a regular season game. For Graham to be able to be involved in such an impactful game only added to the feeling of excitement that stemmed from stepping out on to the field for the first time,

“Stepping out on the field for our first game last Saturday was exhilarating! I am pretty sure my adrenaline fuelled me for the entire game, it was such a rush. It was one of the best times in my entire life and I will never forget it.”

Quite possibly the most admirable element of Graham’s football journey is the ability to balance family and football obligations, while going back to university to further her education. With the summer approaching, Graham’s workload is a bit lighter due to the break in her studies. Although life remains busy, but exciting, the chance to have it all and become a role model for young football fans, including her own children, makes the effort worthwhile,

“Last year I decided to go back to university to become an Accountant. Since university is done until September my schedule is a lot easier to handle. It is great; I can really buckle down and focus most of my attention on football.

Balancing football, school and my family (two children and husband) made life extremely busy. We are definitely on a tight schedule. Luckily, I have the best husband in the whole world that makes it all possible. Without him I would not be playing my new favorite sport.”

“All quotes obtained first hand unless otherwise indicated”