Life-changing experience

Sellers contributes to Steel’s success on and off the field

Among the empowered women that suit up for the Lethbridge Steel, Donnelly Sellers brings a positive attitude and a good sense of humour, elements which make her a popular member of the roster. While she is one of the unsung heroes that toils on the offensive line, Sellers works just as hard off the field, serving as team president. Entering her third season with the purple and silver, it has resulted in a very positive and exciting life-changing experience which has only served to increase her love of the game.

Having been raised in the football mad province of Saskatchewan, she was initiated into football fandom early on. While her path would eventually follow to Alberta, football was never far behind. From old friends in Saskatoon to new friends in Lethbridge, her initial sojourn into the WWCFL only adds to the growing lore of the Steel.

“It is a bit of a story. I am originally from Saskatchewan (so of course, I bleed green) and a good friend of mine from back home had started playing with the Saskatoon Valkyries. She kept bugging me to join the Steel – but I was nervous. I had never played team sports before – I am a self-professed band geek, always picked last in gym class – so I did not want to embarrass myself.

Then one day, I was with my husband at SportChek and the lovely Maddy Armstrong was helping us out, wearing her finest Lethbridge Steel shirt! We got chatting about the team and she told me about the new player information night coming up. I got all the details and thought to myself “Why not?” After that session – I was sold!”

Having won the Steel’s Most Outstanding Lineman Award in 2012, Maddy Armstrong’s initial journey into football was similar. A posting for the time resulted in several of Armstrong’s close friends trying out for the time, begging her to tag along. Just like Sellers, the decision to play for the Steel was one that would enrich athletically and personally.

The element that would truly serve as the crucial point in committing was the strong camaraderie that is the backbone of team sports for decades, especially in football. It is an element that accounts for a remarkable team culture on the Steel, an aspect that made Sellers eager to grace the gridiron.

“The thing that hooked me was when Maddy was talking about how the Steel are such a great team and that they work together – she said “it’s like getting 25 instant friends”. I love the idea of teamwork and being a part of something bigger. I am a firm believer that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. When I went to my first practice, I was even more nervous – but everyone was friendly and welcoming. I gladly handed over my fees, got my equipment and never looked back!”

Since joining the Steel, Sellers has enjoyed the opportunity to win a pair of Western Conference titles, resulting in the chance to compete in two WWCFL championship games. In discussing the aspects that she enjoys most about the game, her devotion to the team shines through. Such jubilation was also complemented by a very emotional homecoming, as one of the WWCFL’s championship games took place in her native Saskatchewan.

“Can I say everything? Well, maybe everything except the cardio. I’m an offensive lineman who occasionally moonlights as a defensive linemen; I like being in the trenches, so to speak. Just do not ask me to sprint to the end zone! As I mentioned before, I love being part of a team and working together as a group.

As I enter into my third season of playing, I am getting a greater understanding of how all the positions work together and the strategy behind the game. It is amazing to see! I love this group of ladies and our fantastic coaches and support people.

That being said – the highlight of my football career so far was playing in Mosaic Stadium (it will always be Taylor Field to me) and shaking the hand of George Reed! Talk about Rider Pride!”

Currently serving in a capacity as Team President for the Steel, Sellers sets a positive example. So many women with the Steel, let alone the WWCFL work just as hard off the field for their respective teams in numerous volunteer capacities. It is an aspect that Sellers is quick to acknowledge, as teamwork and collaboration is just as important off the field in order to gain success.

“This will be my second year as president of the board – and I honestly could not have done it without the rest of my fellow board members. I am not just saying that either – having great, enthusiastic, and committed people supporting this team is awesome!”

In all aspects of women’s sport, the need to increase awareness and build a fan base can be very trying tasks. In discussing some of the challenges that the Steel face, Sellers also incorporates a sense of optimism. Having worked with other members of the Steel to establish a strong foundation at the grass roots level, the future shows all signs that said challenges can be overcome.

“Some of the challenges we face I think are fairly common in organizations such as this – recruitment, fundraising, league awareness – things like that. We have worked really hard in the past year and a half and have come a long way. We are participating in more community events, and really getting involved with some of the youth initiatives around the city. We are developing new recruitment and fundraising strategies, working on an alumni program, as well as brainstorming innovative ways to partner with local business and community programs. It’s a work in progress – but it’s really exciting!”

“All quotes obtained first hand unless otherwise indicated”