Beginning of new chapter in Harlow’s stellar career
As one of the most accomplished players in the history of Canadian female football, the 2014 title game in the Maritime Women’s Football League represented the pinnacle in Lisa Harlow’s storied career. Contributing to the sixth championship in Saint John Storm franchise history, Harlow was one of the architects that helped transform the club into an Atlantic Canadian sporting history.
Holding the unique distinction of having been part of every championship victory, the accomplishment was enhanced by the presence of her father, Larry Harlow. One of the most successful coaches in New Brunswick football history, Larry served as Storm head coach since its inception. While each championship holds a special place in Lisa’s heart, this championship shall certainly be a turning point in MWFL history.
“On the way home from the game, we reminisced about all the Championship wins trying to pick our favorite. We could not because they are all different in their own way. This one will always be remembered because after 11 years of playing and having an unbelievable playing career with six Championship wins, I will be hanging up my cleats and pads as player and hitting the field as a Coach. It is time I see if I can beat my dad’s number of Championship wins as a Coach! It feels great to end my playing journey with another victory.”
With the torch now passed, Lisa looks forward to the next chapter in her remarkable career. Preparing to assume the reins of coach with the Storm next season, she looks to follow in the proud legacy of her father while aiming for the franchise to gain its unprecedented seventh title. There is no denying that Lisa is more than qualified, as she leads the charge of more women stepping into coaching roles.
In addition to a stint where she proudly served as the President of Football New Brunswick, she helped start a football league for girls aged 14-17. Serving as a coach in the league, one of her greatest pupils was Robyn Richardson, who would grow into a role on the Storm defensive unit this season. Taking into account that such an initiative occurred more than five years ago, it is testament to her leadership and her commitment to instilling confidence and improve self-esteem for young women.
While she has established herself as a living legend in Canadian football (which included participation in the inaugural IFAF Women’s Worlds in 2010), her efforts are nothing short of an inspiration. From shaping the next generation of football talent to building a championship legacy, her efforts helped ambitious women with an empowering opportunity to experience sporting glory which may have been deemed unfathomable a few decades ago.
It is all part of a rich narrative in which Harlow has contributed to a pioneering era for female sport in Atlantic Canada, making her efforts worthy of more than just the Order of New Brunswick. Should the day come when the Canadian Football of Fame inducts women, there is no question that Lisa Harlow deserves to be among those immortalized inside its hallowed walls. Ready to step into the world of coaching, Lisa Harlow will lead the next step in the evolution of female football, as the presence of female coaching can only add a new and exciting dimension to the game and its opportunity for further growth.
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