Saskatoon Valkyries become first great dynasty in WWCFL history

While the final score of the 2013 WWCFL title game did not resemble the outcome of 2012 (64-21 for Saskatoon over Lethbridge), the Saskatoon Valkyries left no doubt in anyone’s mind as to their dominance. Sending nine players to the Canadian National Team, the Valkyries are not only the class of the WWCFL but its first dynasty.

Many heroes were evident for Saskatoon in the 2013 title game. Quarterback Candace Bloomquist (named Offensive Player of the Game for Saskatoon) accomplished something no women’s quarterback in North America has ever done, win three consecutive championships. Although she only attempted 13 passes (with 9 completions), her presence on the field makes her a leader.

A running game anchored by Canadian national team member Julie David and Julene Friesen was the main factor in the victory for Saskatoon. With rain and 50 km/h winds, Friesen was part of a running strategy in the third quarter in which the green and white dominated in time of possession.

The strategy paid remarkable dividends as Friesen logged one touchdown, while carrying the ball 27 times for an astounding 204 rushing yards. Recognition also needs to go to their offensive line, the most dominant in the league. Led by Canadian national team members Jessie Buydens, Beth Thompson and Kendra Wilson, this titanic trio was the unsung heroes in paving the way for a highly effective running game.

While Rienna Rueve added to the Valkyries lead throughout the game with field goals, another hero in the game was Julie Paetsch. Recovering from a knee injury, she only competed in her second game of the season. A key contributor to a defense that stymied the Steel on a goal line stand and a failed fourth down conversion, she emerged as the Valkyries Defensive Player of the Game.

With only 26 players on their roster, the Lethbridge Steel played valiantly in the 27-13 loss. Having outscored their opponents in the regular season by a 195-6 margin, the defense ensured that Saskatoon would not score 64 points as they did the year before.

Their 18-1 record over three seasons puts them in the conversation when it comes to great Canadian women’s sporting dynasties. Like the Saint John Storm in the MWFL, the McGill Martlets and Montreal Stars of women’s hockey, and the Windsor Lancers in women’s basketball, Saskatoon has emerged as one of the premier organizations in the nation.

Should another WWCFL club breakthrough next year and make their championship dreams come true, the Valkyries dynasty helped to make the championship one of prestige. While modern day sports fans prefer parity, there is a sense of credibility and status with a team that can win multiple titles. Such a team is always in high regard, carrying with it respect. As the WWCFL continues to grow, fans will look upon the Valkyries as the team that laid the foundation.

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