Gridiron passion

Storm extends Gregoire’s love of sport

Among the group of women that don the Edmonton Storm’s bright blue jersey, Lori-Lyn Gregoire has developed into a sporting pioneer. Along with her teammates, she is part of a group of empowering women introducing a new generation of girls to the possibility that they can play football.

Like so many other women in the sport, her first exposure came via television, watching men’s professional football. Gregoire was curious as to whether there was such a sport available for women in Edmonton.

“I really enjoyed watching the NFL, but most of the time I did not know what was going on! I thought, what better way to learn than to play? I did an online search titled “women’s football Edmonton” and The Edmonton Storm came up.

It said “no experience required, any athletic ability!” and I thought: perfect! I was really excited that there was a tackle league for women. I am a black belt in kung-Fu and I have never been shy of contact but I had never played a team sport.”

Upon attending her first practice in 2014, Gregoire had found an opportunity to extend her athletic endeavors. Enamored with the team culture and the overall enthusiasm and friendship that ran common with all her new teammates, it became a sporting epiphany,

“My first practice was almost magical. There are so many fantastic and interesting women with passion and the drive to improve and win. I instantly wanted to be a part of it.”

Gracing the gridiron as a defensive back for her first WWCFL game last season, Gregoire encountered a learning curve that is common with all players, male and female, nascent to the game. Regardless of an individual’s athletic gifts, the ability to comprehend the playbook is just as relevant.

Accepting this as a personal challenge, it provided a motivational factor for Gregoire to elevate her game. Equally encouraging was the patience of the Storm’s coaching staff. With every game that Gregoire participates in, the result is an increase in her confidence.

“I was…not so good, I was still uncertain of my position duties. Team sports were new to me and the strategy was not coming easily to me. It is a credit to our coaching staff that they know when to support you, push you and work you hard to get the very best out of you.

This is my second year and while I still have a lot to improve on, my skills, abilities and my understanding of the game is growing. Because the coaches are so supportive and passionate, it just pushes me constantly to improve. It is hard but rewarding.”

In reflecting on her brief time with the Storm, the sense of friendship and family that exists is what keeps her coming back. Practice is such an essential part of football, it becomes more than an educational process to sharpen one’s skills. It evolves into a ritual where the bonds of teamwork are forged. Gregoire elaborates on the aspects of practice that enrich the athletic experience for her,

“There are so many great people on this team! I play cornerback and I love practicing with the other defensive players and coaches; when we are doing drills we encourage each other. During scrimmage we get down to business and do what we need to do.

Valerie (#24) is my favourite person to get focused with before a game. Tanya (#32) is who helps me stay grounded during a game. They are both great leaders that inspire confidence.”

“All quotes obtained first hand unless otherwise indicated”