Rebranding success

Lady Outlawz rebranded as Foothills Outlawz with Cyr leading team into new era

After an inaugural season in 2013 which saw the Okotoks Lady Outlawz endure the typical expansion woes, including a winless season, there is a feeling of excitement heading into 2014. A team meeting in October 2013 helped to address the woes which had befallen upon the franchise.

Starting with a re-branding, the club enters 2014 as the Foothills Outlawz. Another key matter was the retirement of player and general manager Roberta Gordica, making it crucial to find a new individual to assume the management mantle. Player Natasha Cyr has made the decision to follow in Gordica’s footsteps and build on the foundation that she established. Having made many friends and finding common ground as one of several mothers that donned the Lady Outlawz jersey, it helped to strengthen her love of the game.

“Upon reflection of the first season of the Outlawz, my personal best part, as a player, was the unexpected bond and friendship that was developed among us all. This bond is what got us through the first season, which is always challenging.”

There are several positives for the franchise. Allison Mouland is an elite athlete who is poised to emerge as one of the top quarterbacks in the WWCFL. Running back Georgia Moore, known affectionately as the Aussie Clipper became the second football player selected in the history of the Canadian Women’s Hockey League draft.

Like many of her fellow players, Cyr has invested a lot of time, effort and sweat into helping make the purple and black a reality. While the first season brought with it growing pains, the determination to succeed is defining the preparations for the upcoming second season. It is a strong point of pride for the dedicated Cyr,

“I am also very committed and dedicated to this team, as a player, so I figured GM would be a great way for me to be involved and help this team continue to have the opportunity to play.”

Planning ahead for 2014, Cyr is looking at addressing the fact that there was some player turnover in the off-season. With the WWCFL having five franchises in the province of Alberta, there is no shortage of athletic talent. Working towards recruiting said talent may serve as the most significant obstacle in getting prepared for the upcoming campaign.

“The biggest challenge for 2014 I think, is going to be recruiting. Trying to convince other women to give it a try has proven to be a past challenge as well.”

Cyr is collaborating with a group of 10 individuals, a combination of players, coaches and trainers, to pick up the pieces. Actively working on getting recruiting, marketing and sponsorship committees for the franchise off the ground, Cyr’s efforts should yield a strong and positive result.

“The ladies of the Foothills Outlawz inspired me to become GM when the opportunity was presented. Unfortunately, due to personal matters and other circumstances, we lost some of our players, coaches and trainers. The remaining players and coaches are very committed to making our next season successful. We are all doing our part in making this happen!

“All quotes obtained first hand unless otherwise indicated”