Status extending

Boyles extends two-sport star status with another world championship appearance

As one of the most accomplished wide receivers in the history of the MWFL’s Saint John Storm, Lori Boyles has experienced a remarkable number of milestones. Among them, the most exciting may have been the chance to don the Canadian jersey at the IFAF Women’s World Football Championships.

Of note, she was one of only 11 Canadian women to have competed in the first two IFAF Women’s Worlds. Earning a silver medal on both occasions, she would play on the offense at the inaugural event in 2010, and then compete on defense at the 2013 edition, testament to her versatility.

Having crafted a career as a world-class football player, it may come as a surprise to know that Boyles is very proficient in hockey. Her interest in the sport stemmed from her family’s exposure to it and it would prove to hold a special place in her heart.

Not only would Boyles play the sport throughout her teens, she would also compete as a student-athlete at the University of New Brunswick. She reflects on those early years and how the game shaped her love of athletic competition,

“I grew up with two older brothers and a hockey coach father. My mother was so happy to finally get her girl, she put me in the typical female activities (dancing, gymnastics, baton twirling…). None of these were my forte, that’s for sure.

When I started high school and saw the tryouts for female hockey, I was sold. I went home and told my dad that I wanted to try out. His eyes lit up and we went right out and bought me some equipment.”

Following her university career, Boyles would carve a sterling ball hockey career in the Saint John Metro Ball Hockey league, competing for 15 years. While Boyles hung up her skates a few years ago in order to pursue football, her skills were highly sought after for the Women’s Masters World Championships.

“When the opportunity came up to play ball hockey for Team Canada for the Women’s Masters World Championships, I could not help but come out of retirement for the tournament. The first game of the tournament was the first game I played in 5 years. Pretty nerve racking (laughs).”

Proudly donning the Team Canada jersey for the 2014 edition of the event, Boyles emerged with a gold medal. As a side note, the gold medal is complemented by another significant victory in 2014. With the Saint John Storm, Boyles won the Judy Upward Trophy as 2014 MWFL Champions. While Boyles has made some remarkable friendships with the Storm, a pair of proud friends from ball hockey got the chance to share in her success.

“To win gold at the World Championships was priceless. A feeling I will never forget with a team that became so close in such a short amount of time. After a first game of getting to know each other, we gelled right away. It was even more special to share with and play on a line with two teammates of 15 years, Sheila Elliott and Vicky Lively.”

Being able to represent Canada in two different sports on the international stage, Boyles is truly a world-class athlete. While she remains humble, Boyles attributes her success to a strong work ethic.

“I think it shows that physical fitness will get you far. Keep working hard in the gym and pushing yourself. I am not the most skilled player in either sport, but my fitness allows me to be versatile and contribute to both sports.”

“All quotes obtained first hand unless otherwise indicated”