South Calgary Female Colts host Try It night in Strathmore

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The South Calgary Female Colts football team hosted a free Try It day, Jan. 11, at the Strathmore Motor Products Sports Centre, aiming to introduce more girls to the sport. 

Despite being based out of Calgary, the Colts team also recruits U16 and U19 players from surrounding regions, which include from Strathmore and Wheatland County.

The event was aimed to encourage U19 players to experience the sport, and potentially be recruited for the team. 

“We are a South Calgary team, but we want to include all of the girls, wherever they reside, so we are just looking for some more players to come play this amazing sport,” said Tatrina Medvescek, head coach for the South Calgary Female Colts. “Tackle football for females is growing, definitely, but it is still years behind hockey and other sports, so all of our coaches are current players or are coaching another team or (have) another athletic background. We just want to pass our knowledge on and get more females playing football.”

This particular Try It event was the first of its kind hosted by the South Calgary Female Colts in Strathmore. Medvescek explained they represent an opportunity to be introduced to an all-women’s football team, and to continue playing football past high school.

In Strathmore, there is currently no all-women’s football team available in school divisions, nor through the local recreational division. 

“We want a spot for them to feel comfortable, to promote the sport, to come out and show that we are accepting of them, of who they are,” said Medvescek. “It is a physical sport, a very physical sport, and some play other sports but this might just be where they excel at.”

Currently, there are no future plans or bookings to host similar Try It events in Strathmore specifically; however, events will be held in Calgary for any who may still be interested in exploring the sport without fully committing to joining the team.

The idea of hosting another event in Strathmore, however, is not off the table and may be something the Colts consider going forward.

“We (also) do not want cost to ever be a barrier to play any sport, never mind football, so we want to keep (Try It events) free,” said Medvescek. “We want the girls to come out and try it and not feel any pressure with having to commit.”

More information about the South Calgary Female Colts football team is available through their website and social media channels. Ongoing dates for Try It events will be advertised online.