Sabrina Gervais, a mother, healthcare professional, and seasoned flag football player, is aiming to add “Olympian” to her list of achievements as she leads Canada’s national women’s team into the 2026 world championship. The team’s goal is not only to secure a gold medal but also a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Games, where flag football will make its Olympic debut.
Gervais expressed her excitement, stating, “It would be realizing a dream I would’ve never dreamt before. I never thought about the Olympics, but now that I’m still in the loop, I think the chances are good if I can stay healthy and continue to be a leader for my team. That would definitely be a dream come true.”
The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championship kicks off in Düsseldorf, Germany, with Canada set to face Panama and Brazil before going up against Japan. The top two teams will secure Olympic berths, with a possibility of a third spot if the United States reaches the gold-medal game due to their host status.
In case Canada fails to qualify in Germany, they will have to compete in upcoming events to secure a spot for the Olympics. Despite facing challenges, Canada remains a strong contender for the gold medal in Germany, having qualified for the world championship after finishing as runners-up in last year’s IFAF Americas Continental championship.
Gervais, hailing from Maskinonge, Que., remains optimistic about Canada’s chances and is focused on facing Mexico, a team they encountered in the previous championship. Reflecting on past achievements, including a bronze medal at the 2025 World Games in China, Gervais highlighted the growing recognition of the Canadian team within the flag football community.
Beyond her athletic pursuits, Gervais, a 36-year-old veteran in the sport, balances her roles as a mother of twins, a healthcare professional, and a dedicated player. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, patience, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to continue excelling on and off the field.
Gervais also emphasizes the significance of teamwork and credits head coach Rachel Lessard for Canada’s global success. She believes that unity and chemistry among team members are key factors in their strength and competitiveness at the international level.
While Gervais has not set a timeline for her retirement or dwelled on potential Olympic glory, she remains committed to making a positive impact on the sport and inspiring the next generation of players with her dedication and leadership both on and off the field.