Determined leader

Determined Simpson was ready to lead Saskatoon back to the postseason 

In what should have been a second glorious season, Casey Simpson would have been one of the most versatile players on the Saskatoon Sirens. After a strong rookie campaign that saw her contribute on both offense and defense, this tenacious competitor is looking to avenge the championship game loss of last season.

NOTE: Prior to the September 16 announcement that the 2013 LFL Canada season was postponed until 2014, Casey Simpson had spoken about her football career and aspirations for the season.

Introduced to the LFL by a member of the opposite sex, his suggestion reflected great foresight. With a diverse sporting background in hockey, softball and volleyball, Simpson, who is also a nursing student, was an avid competitor in peak physical condition. Sporting those strong credentials, Simpson had the tenacity and a killer instinct that was tailor made for the gridiron.

“I was introduced to the LFL through a male friend who suggested that I would absolutely love it. He knows my aggressive nature and competitive side, so I took his word and decided to check it out. After watching endless YouTube clips and attending try outs, then practices, I was hooked.”

During the 2012 season, Simpson had the opportunity to compete alongside such LFL US stars as Anne Erler, Tamar Fennell and Heather Furr. With their solid work ethic and determination, it set the tone for a Sirens team that claimed the regular season championship. The hard work also yielded Simpson a nomination for the LFL Canada Mortaza Award. The winning culture that helped define stood out as one of the enjoyable elements of the season.

“Last season, I enjoyed having such a successful and positive atmosphere within my team. We were all driven athletes with competitive minds and were completely motivated.”

One of the unique aspects of the 2013 season is the amount of new faces adorning the playing field of LFL Canada. Despite only being a second year player, competitors such as Simpson are being thrust into a veteran role. While it may present a transition, it is a role that Simpson accepts with great pride. Employing maturity and a team-first approach, she is one of the pillars of the franchise,

“As one of the veterans this year I definitely consider myself a leader. I try and make myself approachable and available to all the rookies on the team if they have any questions or need help improving. I like to lead by example and challenge all the girls to do better.”

While last season was a coming-out party for Simpson, proving that she was worthy of consideration one of LFL Canada’s toughest and grittiest competitors, she also got a taste of the postseason. After a spectacular regular season, coming so close to a championship, only to be bested by the BC Angels in the finals was a visceral loss.

Taking her leadership role to heart, Simpson wants to contribute to a championship effort. With the first game of the season against the BC Angels, it is a statement game. In discussing what it will take to make her championship dreams come true, she mentioned,

“To WIN the championship this year, it is going to take a lot of dedication from each and every player on the team. We have a point to prove and it starts right at game one, playing a rematch of the championship game from last year.

We cannot take a single play off or a single day off. The month of September right until October 6th is 100% football. If we can push and fight through every play, drill, and practice there is no doubt we will be a championship contender.”

Although her championship goals will have to wait until 2014, there is no question that Casey Simpson is one of the most exciting and dynamic players on an ambitious Saskatoon Sirens squad. While 2013 will remain as what might have been, Sirens fans are some of the most loyal in LFL Canada and to wait for a talent like Simpson is one that may be well worth it.

“All quotes obtained first hand unless otherwise indicated”

Photograph by: Andrew Spearin, The StarPhoenix