Klein charting her own journey in flag football

Making 17U national team highlight for high school senior

By Darren Steinke
Gordie Howe Sports Complex

Olivia Klein in a Football Canada photo. (Photo courtesy Olivia Klein)

For Olivia Klein, the reality was bigger than the dream when it came to making Football Canada’s 17U National Women’s Flag Team.

On May 17, Klein attended the selection camp for the 17U National Women’s Flag Team in Kingston, Ontario, attempting to make the squad as a defensive back. She wasn’t sure at first how that opportunity was going to pan out.

“The tryout was super intense,” said Klein. “There were a lot of girls, and I was like really nervous.

“I didn’t know what to expect. The coach was from Quebec. I didn’t know him very well, and the tryout was super nerve-racking.”

Shortly after that tryout, Klein got the call that she made the team, which was also the inaugural edition for the 17U National Women’s squad. Having played the sport since she was seven-years-old, Klein was pretty pumped about that development.

“I was overwhelmed,” said Klein, who turned 17-years-old on October 24. “My mom (Crystal Klein) and me were both crying.

“My dad (Kelly Klein) was so happy for me. It was just a really exciting feeling, and I just felt so accomplished with myself. I was just proud, and I just kind of was like thinking back like everything that I’ve put into this sport kind of led up to that moment.

“Finding out that I made that team was super awesome. Getting to go down to L.A. and train in Chula Vista alongside all the national women’s team, the national men’s team was a super cool opportunity. It was just so fun, so competitive playing against U.S. girls, just an awesome opportunity for me and so cool to be there.”

Klein took part in a training camp in Chula Vista, California, from June 13 to 17. She then played in the Junior International Cup that ran June 19 to 21 in Los Angeles. At that event, Klein helped Canada post a 4-2 overall record, which included finishing out winning the bronze medal contest 38-6 over Panama.

Olivia Klein (#70) jets downfield after a catch for the Mystics.

Those experiences were fulfilling for Klein considering the fact that for most of her life growing up hockey was her main sport. She played hockey through the winter season and geared up playing through Saskatoon Minor Football’s flag football programs through the warmer times in the spring, summer and fall.

In the current day, Klein is still playing both sports. She is a defender with the Saskatoon Comet Legends under-17 AA team. She just finished playing for the Mystics in the Varsity Division of the Toon Squad League overseen by SMF.

Klein, who is a Grade 12 student at Aden Bowman Collegiate, has played for various flag teams operated through SMF during her high school days as a two-way player. During her Grade 11 school year, Klein took a big step in making flag football her main sport enrolling to be part of the Institute of Saskatchewan Football, which runs in the second semester of each school year on the Gordie Howe Sports Complex grounds.

“I started that last year, and that was something very new to me, but it was very exciting,” said Klein, who stands 5-foot-8. “It was a great year.

“It was lots of hard work. I had great coaches alongside me, and we got to go to Florida with our ISF team. That was a cool opportunity, and then, of course, the Europe trip was super cool too.”

Klein built a tonne of great memories playing with and against the female players in her generation she has grown up with. She said a couple of her best friends include Cameron Scott, who was her quarterback on the Mystics, and Molly Freeman, who is a receiver who also took part in the selection camp for the 17U National Women’s Flag Team.

“I’ve just grown up playing this sport with them,” said Klein, who has played games regularly at Saskatoon Minor Football Field over the years. “You get really close with all the girls and create awesome friendships.”

Olivia Klein lines up on defensive in Toon Squad league play.

Mystics coach Sarah Wright has gotten to coach Klein about three or four times through SMF programs. Wright said Klein is super motivated and it is always a pleasure to coach her. The sideline boss has enjoyed seeing the young athlete grow into a star player that makes an impact on both sides of the ball.

“The way that she has been training with ISF (the Institute of Saskatchewan Football) and everything like that too, they’ve just made sure that both sides of the ball are worked,” said Wright, who is a star running back with the WWCFL’s Saskatoon Valkyries and has playing in Football Canada’s national team system. “She (Klein) has got amazing hands on both sides of the ball.

“I think being a good defensive player makes her a good offensive player and vice versa, so we’re super excited to see her on both sides of the ball.”

Wright believes Klein has a bright future in the game. Back in 2016, Wright graduated from high school and joined the Valkyries for her rookie season one year later.

The Mystics coach said the football landscape when she graduated from high school is much different compared to now and when Klein is set to graduate in June of 2027. Flag football will be part of the Summer Olympics in 2028 and there are NCAA and U Sports programs to join that weren’t around in 2016. Noting those changes, Wright thinks Klein can be in the sport for some time.

“It is so different,” said Wright. “There is so, so, so, so many more opportunities for girls in flag football, which is great, especially with it being in the Olympics now.

“I’m super excited to see where she (Klein) continues to grow from here. She has not even hit her prime yet, so the only way is up.”

Olivia Klein is a stellar two-way player in flag football.

Klein said one of the biggest learning experiences for her being part of 17U National Women’s Flag Team was just focusing on the defensive side of the ball as a defensive back after always being a two-way player.

“It was definitely different,” said Klein. “Lots of girls that I played with were from Quebec, so there is a language barrier there.

“I had to learn some French but not very much. The defence, it was definitely different. It was super intense.

“We had an aggressive defence, which I loved. It was just a lot of the stuff that I’m used to. Obviously, all the defences have bits and pieces of things that I’ve learned and defences that I’ve played before.”

Overall, Klein said her experience with the 17U National Women’s Flag Team has added to her confidence when it comes to playing the game.

“Every single game that I have now, I’m kind of just trying to channel all the things that I learned from that,” said Klein. “I definitely have taken all of the experience from that with me to my game.”

On November 2, Klein helped the Mystics claim a 34-13 win over the Wings in the championship game for the Toon Squad Varsity League. The Mystics finished the season with a 10-2 overall record.

Looking towards the future, Klein said she hasn’t yet committed to joining a post-secondary team in the NCAA or U Sports ranks. She has been focused on living in the moment but admits she plans to continue playing the sport in the foreseeable future.

“I’m definitely hoping to commit to a school whether that is here in Canada, in the States or wherever it may be,” said Klein. “I definitely want to play competitive flag next year in university.

Olivia Klein and the Mystics won the Toon Squad Varsity League title.

“Obviously, 2032 is coming. That is my kind of year to get into the Olympics, so hopefully, that is something for me. Hopefully, there is an opportunity for there.

“I’m just super excited for all of that coming up. I’ll get to watch the Olympics here soon, so that will be exciting to watch them.”

For more information on the flag and other programs offered by Saskatoon Minor Football, feel free to check out their website at saskatoonminorfootball.com/smf/.

Saints/Bears give photo roundup game of the year

By Gordie Howe Sports Complex staff
Gordie Howe Sports Complex

Ashton Houmphanh plunges in for a Saints touchdown.

During this high school football season, there had to be folks in Saskatoon wishing the Bishop James Mahoney High School Saints and the Aden Bowman Collegiate Bears could go at it every week.

Their games are barnburners.

On October 1 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field, those two squads met for the first time in the 2026 campaign. On the final play off the game, a trio of Saints defenders had to hustle back and deflect away a pass to Bears receiver Harrison Shirkey in the Saints end zone to preserve a 24-21 victory for Bishop James Mahoney.

That turned out to be a prelude to their meeting in the SSSAD’s 5A City Final on October 30 at SMF Field. In that encounter, the Saints took a 14-13 lead into halftime before Bears star receiver Ben Blackburn scored on a run and a point from a missed field goal gave Aden Bowman a 21-14 advantage.

It looked like the Bears were going to run out the clock, but Saints defensive back Ashton Kohlman caused a fumble to allow his squad to take possession of the ball about 60 yards away from the Bears end zone with 75 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter.

Ben Blackburn (#4) leads the Bears in a handshake line with the Saints.

The Saints promptly drove downfield, and star running back Ashton Houmphanh plunged in from a yard out for a touchdown with 27.6 seconds remaining in the frame. After the Bears were given a penalty for hitting the Saints centre on the conversion attempt, the Saints elected to go for a two-point conversion from the Bears one-yard line. Houmphanh plunged in again from a yard out to give the Saints a 22-21 victory and their third straight city title.

Our lead picture of this photo roundup shows Houmphanh going for the touchdown that cut the Bears lead to 21-20 before the ground gainer tacked on the winning two-point convert. The second shot sees Blackburn leading the handshake line for the Bears as the two valiant squads paid respects for each other’s effort. The third photo shows the Saints raising the SSSAD 5A Championship Trophy for claiming the city title.

Following that contest, the Saints hit the road to Prince Albert for an SHSAA 5A Provincial Semifinal. In that game, they slipped past the Carlton Comprehensive High School Crusaders 14-12 at Max Clunie Field on November 7.

The Saints will host the SHSAA’s 5A Provincial Final on Saturday, November 14 at 1 p.m. at SMF Field against the Central Collegiate Cyclones from Moose Jaw. The Cyclones enter the contest looking to repeat as provincial champions.

The Saints celebrate winning their SSSAD 5A City title.

Along with the pictures of the Saints downing the Bears in an all-time classic in the SSSAD’s 5A City Final, this photo roundup contains lots of images from football’s post-season trail along with check ins from baseball and softball.

The pictures in this photo roundup capture some of the memories that are made on our grounds. In this photo roundup, most of these pictures were taken by our Communications Coordinator in Darren Steinke.

Without further ado, here is a selection of 25 shots we hope you enjoy.

Ebben on one of his final Hilltops runs

Star fifth-year running back Corbin Ebben jets up field for the Saskatoon Hilltops in a PFC semifinal against the Edmonton Wildcats on October 11 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. Ebben helped the Hilltops post a 44-16 victory. His CJFL career came to an end a week later with the Hilltops losing to the Thunder in Regina in the PFC Final. The Thunder would go on to win the CJFL title.

Hilltops’ Sawi searches for a seam

Saskatoon Hilltops fifth-year star receiver and kick returner Charles Sawi looks for a lane to run upfield in during his team’s 44-16 victory in a PFC semifinal against the Edmonton Wildcats on October 11 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. Sawi has created a number of thrills at SMF Field during his high school and Hilltops days. His CJFL career came to an end a week later with the Hilltops losing to the Thunder in Regina in the PFC Final. The Thunder would go on to win the CJFL title.

Hilltops offensive linemen are all here

The Saskatoon Hilltops offensive linemen pose for a group photo following their team’s 44-16 victory in a PFC semifinal against the Edmonton Wildcats on October 11 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. The heart of the Hilltops often comes from their offensive linemen. The Hilltops season came to an end a week later with a loss in the PFC Final against the Thunder in Regina. The Thunder would go on to win the CJFL title.

Lipinski awards go to Penrod and Britz

It was a big afternoon in the main hall at the Gordie Howe Sports Centre building on October 22 as two Darren Lipinski Memorial Awards were handed out. They are presented by the Saskatoon Amateur Softball Association to individuals for their outstanding contribution to softball in Saskatoon. Brooks Penrod and Drew Britz were the recipients of this year’s awards. Penrod started out as a player and served in many roles as a coach and executive over the years including sitting on Softball Canada’s Board of Directors and serving as Team Manager of the Saskatoon Jacks in the current day. Britz began playing softball in 1979 and has held roles as a coach, executive and umpire in the sport running to the current day. Pictured, from left, are Mark Loehndorf, who is a long time SASA executive, Penrod, Britz and Noreen Murphy, who is all-time softball great in playing and coaching.

Cloney gives Mustangs horsepower

Mount Royal Collegiate Mustangs running back Ty Cloney charges upfield against the Bedford Road Collegiate Redhawks in the Rusholme Road Bowl Final on October 29 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. Cloney also played on defence in this contest for the Mustangs and they grinded out a 10-0 win.

Mount Royal in good hands with Currie

Receiver and defensive back Parker Currie might have the best hands for a Mount Royal Collegiate Mustangs player since current CFL official Troy Semenchuk played for the team in the early 1990s. Currie hauls in a pass while facing double coverage against the Bedford Road Collegiate Redhawks in the Rusholme Road Bowl Final on October 29 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. While making big catches on offence, Currie also makes big interceptions on defence. He helped the Mustangs grind out a 10-0 win on this day.

Mustangs soak in Rusholme Road Bowl win

The Mount Royal Collegiate Mustangs pose for the customary team photo after winning the Rusholme Road Bowl Final on October 29 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. The Mustangs blanked the Bedford Road Collegiate Redhawks 10-0. This was arguably the Mustangs biggest win in the last 15 years.

Bears sack attack

While they came up on the wrong end of an all-time classic in the SSSAD’s 5A City Final on October 30 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field, the defence of the Aden Bowman Collegiate Bears made their share of plays in what was a 22-21 loss. Early on in the game, Bears defensive linemen Steeg Loucks (#45) and Burton Johnson (#65) team up to sack Bishop James Mahoney High School Saints quarterback Alex Hill.

Saints’ Hill calm under pressure

Bishop James Mahoney High School Saints quarterback Alex Hill accurately slings a pass downfield under pressure inside the final 75 seconds of SSSAD’s 5A City Final on October 30 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field against the Aden Bowman Collegiate Bears. Hill expertly guided a two-minute drill drive that resulted in a winning rushing touchdown and two-point convert by running back Ashton Houmphanh. Those scores gave the Saints a 22-21 victory.

Pollack with big catch and run for Saints

Bishop James Mahoney High School Saints running back Kristjan Pollack works his way upfield after making a catch on a crossing route against the Aden Bowman Collegiate Bears inside the final 75 seconds of SSSAD’s 5A City Final on October 30 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field against the Aden Bowman Collegiate Bears. Pollack’s catch and run for the Saints proved to be a key chunk play in their two-minute drill drive to win the contest 22-21.

Saints singing “Take Me Home, Country Roads”

In what has become a team tradition for about the last five to six years, the Bishop James Mahoney High School Saints sing John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Road” following their 22-21 victory over the Aden Bowman Collegiate Bears in the SSSAD’s 5A City Final on October 30 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. The Saints sang the song here during the customary team photo with the championship trophy.

Textbook out in the outfield

An outfielder settles up to make a catch on a fly ball during a 222’s Fastpitch training session on November 1 at the FUNN Performance Centre. The FUNN Performance Centre has been home to the 222’s Fastpitch program since the building opened in March of 2019.

222’s player sneak in the fun

The players with the 222’s Fastpitch program like to get some fun in during their training sessions. A couple of players here pose for a picture for the camera during a break between drills during a training session on November 1 at the FUNN Performance Centre.

Defence comes up big for Vortex

A defensive back from the Vortex breaks up a pass intended for a Frost receiver during the Toon Squad Junior Flag League title game on November 2 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. Thanks to those types of plays, the Vortex would hold on to down the Frost 12-7 in a tight defensive battle.

Scott on target for Mystics

Quarterback Cameron Scott fires a pass downfield for the Mystics during the Toon Squad Varsity League championship game against the Wings on November 2 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. Scott had a big night as the Mystics downed the Wings 34-13.

Vortex claim first Toon Squad Varsity League title

The Vortex pose for the customary team photo after capturing the Toon Squad Junior Flag League championship on November 2 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. They took a tight 12-7 defensive battle against the Frost in the title game.

Mystics all smiles taking Toon Squad Varsity League crown

The Mystics show off their smiles posing for the customary team photo after winning the Toon Squad Varsity League championship on November 2 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. They downed the Wings 34-13 in the Toon Squad Varsity League. The Mystics finished the regular season with an 8-2 record and were 2-0 in the post-season.

Friends and champions

Mystics player Jacine Stroh, left, and Vortex player Jasmine Bosovich share a moment together enjoying the respective championship trophies their teams won on November 2 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. It was obvious Stroh and Bosovich have a good friendship. The Mystics captured the title in the Toon Squad Varsity League, and the Vortex claimed the championships in the Toon Squad Junior Flag League.

Set for the pitch

A pitcher with the Saskatoon Berries Baseball Academy focuses on his setup to unload a pitch during a training session on November 3 at the FUNN Performance Centre. The Berries Academy holds sessions every day during weekdays at the Gordie Howe Sports Complex during the baseball off-season.

Working on getting stronger

A player with the Saskatoon Berries Baseball Academy works on resistance training exercises during a training session on November 3 at the FUNN Performance Centre. Along with working on the skills of the game, Berries players also work on getting stronger and faster.

Wiggins could go all the way

Holy Cross High School Crusaders defensive back Traven Wiggins returns an interception for a touchdown during the SSSAD’s 6A City Final on November 6 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. The Crusaders repeated as city champs by downing the St. Joseph High School Guardians 40-7.

Dukart makes splash play in open field

Holy Cross High School Crusaders receiver Jack Dukart motors downfield after making a big catch and run play during the SSSAD’s 6A City Final on November 6 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. Dukart helped the Crusaders post a 40-7 win over the St. Joseph High School Guardians to repeat as city champs.

Crusaders enjoy spoils of city title

The Holy Cross High School Crusaders pose for the customary team photo after claiming the SSSAD’s 6A City Final for a second straight year on November 6 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. They will now try to repeat as provincial champions. The Crusaders head on the road on Saturday, November 14 to face the Miller Comprehensive Catholic High School Marauders in the SHSAA’s 6A Provincial Final set for 1 p.m. at Leibel Field in Regina.

Falcons fly high in KFL’s Hilltops Division

The Arns Falcons celebrate winning the championship game for the KFL’s Hilltops Division on November 8 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. After downing the Ledingham Steelers, the Falcons raised the Kinsmen Football League Kelly Bowers Trophy to the air. A big thanks goes out to Vic Pankratz and Saskatoon Minor Football for this photo.

Titans top KFL’s Huskies Division

The Schoenhals Titans were all pumped up after winning the championship game of the KFL’s Huskies Division on November 8 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. After downing the Ledingham Steelers, the Titans enjoyed some video making time with the Bruce Steeves Kinsmen Football League Trophy.

Family ties cement Blackburn in football

Receiver playing out final high school season with Bears

By Darren Steinke
Gordie Howe Sports Complex

Ben Blackburn is one of Saskatoon high school football’s best players.

Football is all in the family for Aden Bowman Collegiate Bears star receiver Ben Blackburn.

His father David was a receiver for the University of Saskatchewan Huskies Football Team from 1989 to 1994, which included being a member of their 1990 Vanier Cup winner as U Sports champions. Ben’s older brother Brady is currently a receiver for the Harvard University Crimson.

Ben’s oldest sibling in sister Lucie is a flag football player and was a member of the U of Saskatchewan Huskies Women’s Track and Field Team. Ben’s mother Lariene is also an alumna of the U of Saskatchewan Huskies Women’s Track and Field Team.

Looking at his family tree, it comes as no surprise that Ben is the sure-handed Grade 12 pass catcher with the Bears and arguably one of Saskatoon’s best high school players at the moment. When asked who might be the best football player in the family, Ben quickly sided with the women.

“I want to say me, but Lucie is pretty good at football,” said Ben, who can make magic returning kicks as well. “I bet if my Mom tried to play football, she’d be pretty good too.

“It is probably one of the girls, honestly. It is probably one of the girls.”

While football runs deep in his family, it wasn’t the sport Ben played seriously at first. Once Brady began playing football, Ben wasn’t too far behind.

“We were all the hockey family,” said Ben, who stands 5-foot-9 and weighs 170 pounds. “Brady started playing football, and I was like, yeah, I want to play football too.

“I’ve played football since Grade 7 and just fell in love with it ever since.”

Ben said one of the things he liked most about football was there was always an opportunity to become an even better player than you are in the present day. He also loves the relationships he has built with his teammates over the years, especially the players on the Bears.

“The team, the guys are so great,” said Ben, who will turn 18-years-old on November 9. “We had a great team this year and all years past.

“It is just so fun to be around.”

One of Ben’s biggest early highlights playing for the Bears came when he got to be part of the senior team as a Grade 9 student in 2023. That was the one high school season Ben got to play alongside Brady, who was in his Grade 12 campaign that year for the Bears. The pair made lots of great plays on the Saskatoon Minor Football Field turf located at the Gordie Howe Sports Complex.

Ben Blackburn (#4) listens to instructions on the sidelines.

“It was super fun honestly,” said Ben, who along with Brady helped the Bears win a 5A city title in 2023. “All his guys really made me feel at home.

“I was just a youngin. It was just great energy. It was a battle every practice.

“And just having him on the team, it really helped me just like with my confidence and him just showing me the way.”

Now suiting up as a Grade 12 senior, Ben’s ties to the Bears have become deep.

“It has been amazing,” said Ben. “It is just a family at this point.

“The coaches, it is not like they’re freaking 60 and just kind of bossing us around. It is really super cohesive and lots of energy. They focus us.

“They want us to get better every practice and just push us to be the best we can.”

Bears head coach Will Redl has been a long-time teacher at Aden Bowman, and one of his blessings has been working with Ben and his family members over the years.

“Well, Ben is like the third Blackburn I’ve had the opportunity to teach and coach,” said Redl. “I had his sister and his brother and him being the youngest of all.

“He is just another Blackburn to me. He is really driven. He has a desire to be the best at whatever he does, and I think he has obviously proved it.”

Redl said Ben does lots of things well when it comes to the sport of football.

“I think as an individual, obviously, his speed,” said Redl. “He works a lot at it.

“To be as fast as he is doesn’t just happen. His desire to catch every ball and to work like that. Albeit, he is a smaller player, but he plays bigger than his size.

“I think as a teammate though that is what stands out even more is that he is not secluding himself from his teammates or trying to distance himself. He wants to be a part of things, and he leads in that way too.”

Away from the game, Redl said Ben and his family are outstanding.

“All the Blackburn kids are great kids,” said Redl. “They’re wired the right way.

“They understand sport and that it is not always going to go their way. They have to still be good people off the field or court. I think it comes a lot as a family and Ben (Blackburn) just does that every day.”

Ben Blackburn (#55) is part of Aden Bowman’s track and field program.

Along with playing for the Bears football team, Ben has been a member of Aden Bowman’s track and field program throughout his high school days along with playing basketball in Grades 9 and 10. While track and field is also in his family’s background, Ben said being part of the track and field program has helped him in football.

“I think it is really beneficial,” said Blackburn. “I think I can see my speed translating onto the football field.

“It is just another thing to push myself and just try to win. You’ve got some buddies on the track team, and it is just a great time. I know in the past my long speed wasn’t great, but then track really helped.

“I just kind of put it all together and still hope I can get faster.”

As the 2026 high school football season enters its final weeks, Ben said it doesn’t seem real that his time with the Bears is nearing an end.

“It is crazy,” said Blackburn. “It seems like yesterday it was that Grade 9 team.

“It is sad in a way, but it gets to this time. We’ve just got to go as far as we can.”

He is pumped his family has been with him for his whole journey in the sport and naturally credits them as being his biggest influences in helping him along the way.

“My brother, his work ethic is like no one else,” said Ben. “He has really instilled that in me.

“Just the support I get from my parents and my sister, it just really pushes me. I think it just makes me a better person overall.”

As for playing football beyond high school, Ben said at the moment he prefers to soak in everything living in the present.

“We’re just going to ride out this season,” said Blackburn. “We’re waiting on a few things.

“Hopefully, I’ll be playing football somewhere next season.”

Redl believes Ben will get his chances to continue the sport after high school and will be in the game for a longer term of time.

Ben Blackburn (#4) wants make a few more end zone visits this season.

“He has some opportunities coming next year that will lead into things a lot more down the road,” said Redl. “I think Brady’s experience down in the States has aided him (Ben) with how well Brady has done.

“I think he (Ben) will reap some of the benefits of that.”

To see the 2026 schedule for high school football, check out the Saskatoon Secondary Schools Athletics Directorate site at sssad.net/schedule/.

“Welcome Week” fans energize SMF Field and photo roundup

By Gordie Howe Sports Complex staff
Gordie Howe Sports Complex

The Holy Cross High School Crusaders fans put on a show.

For two days, fans that come out for the “Welcome Week” games at Saskatoon Minor Football Field become the stars as much as the high school football players they support.

For a lengthy stretch of time, the Saskatoon Secondary Schools Athletic Directorate has hosted “Welcome Week” games that are usually slated for the second week of the high school football season. During those contests, a huge contingent of the student body from each school comes out to see their teams play along with various other supporters of the respective teams.

This season’s “Welcome Week” games were held on September 10 and 11 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. These contests offer one of the first chances in the school year for students to embrace school spirit. The students invade SMF Field bringing signs and wearing school colours to support their school’s team.

A fans shows his love for the Mount Royal Collegiate Mustangs.

Our lead picture for this photo roundup shows part of the large contingent that came out to support the defending 6A SHSAA provincial champion Holy Cross High School Crusaders on September 10. The Holy Cross fans departed SMF Field in a jubilant mood as the Crusaders claimed a rivalry game victory over the St. Joseph High School Guardians 38-7.

The second shot sees a fan of the Mount Royal Collegiate Mustangs all decked out in his team’s colours on September 11. That fan saw his Mustangs play hard before falling 27-8 in a “Rusholme Road Rivalry” clash to the Bedford Road Collegiate Redhawks.

The third photo is a close up of some Bishop James Mahoney High School fans waving pompoms and putting in passion to cheer on their squad. The Saints would blank the Marion M. Graham Collegiate Falcons 31-0 on this night.

While the fans that come out for the “Welcome Week” games are a spectacular sight, all fans that come out to the facilities on the Gordie Howe Sports Complex grounds to support their teams allow the games and events to have a special atmosphere creating a place to be. 

The Bishop James Mahoney High School Saints fans bring passion.

That includes fans of the Saskatoon Berries, Saskatoon Hilltops, Saskatoon Valkyries, the various baseball and softball teams, the track and field athletes, the Lions speed skaters and all sports that grace the Complex’s grounds.

Along with the pictures of the fans from the SSSAD’s “Welcome Week” games, this photo roundup contains images from football, softball and track and field. It includes images of the University of Saskatchewan Women’s Softball Team, the University of Saskatchewan Huskies Track and Field Teams and the Saskatoon Hilltops.

The pictures in this photo roundup capture some of the memories that are made on our grounds. In this photo roundup, all of these pictures were taken by our Communications Coordinator in Darren Steinke.

Without further ado, here is a selection of 20 shots we hope you enjoy.

Bears fans bear down

The fans of the Aden Bowman Collegiate Bears Football Team brought their top game to Saskatoon Minor Football Field on September 10 for their team’s “Welcome Week” game. Those Bears fans got to witness a special night by their team. The Bears stormed to a 35-0 lead at halftime and blanked the Evan Hardy Collegiate Souls 46-0.

On the move

A segment of the student bodies from Walter Murray Collegiate and Centennial Collegiate jog a lap around Saskatoon Minor Football Field as part of their head-to-head festivities with their “Welcome Week” game on September 11. The Walter Murray fans got to enjoy victory celebrations at the end of the contest as their Marauders posted a 31-7 win.

Counting them up

Football official Sam Sullivan counts up the players on one side of the ball before a snap to check if there is an infraction for too many players on the field during a “Welcome Week” game on September 11 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. Sullivan has officiated games at various levels for a number of years.

Here to cheer the Tigers

A group of student body fans got decked out to cheer on their Tommy Douglas Collegiate Tigers for their “Welcome Week” game on September 11 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. The Tigers fans hung out behind their team’s bench. In a tough battle between neighbouring schools, the Tigers fell 21-14 to the Bethlehem Catholic High School Stars.

Redhawks hug

The Bedford Road Collegiate Redhawks always have time for their fans, who can span many generations as Bedford Road is Saskatoon’s second oldest high school, opening in February of 1923. Following their “Welcome Week” game on September 11 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field, Redhawks linebacker Vincent Jacob gives a hug to one of his team’s supporters following their 27-8 win over the Mount Royal Collegiate Mustang in a “Rusholme Road Rivalry” contest.

Valkyries/Hilltops sign up to date

The sign in the north end zone of Saskatoon Minor Football Field featuring the WWCFL title win total of the Saskatoon Valkyries and the CJFL title win total of the Saskatoon Hilltops is shown here on September 13, 2026. It has once again been updated adding in the Valkyries most recent WWCFL title victory that came this past June 27 at SMF Field with a 40-7 triumph over the Edmonton Arctic Pride.

Let it rip

University of Saskatchewan Women’s Softball Team pitcher Allyson McAvoy unloads a toss to home plate in her team’s Western Collegiate Softball Association regular season clash with the U of Lethbridge Pronghorns on September 13 at Bob Van Impe Stadium. McAvoy’s play allowed the U of S to post a 4-0 victory and finish a weekend of hosting six straight home games with a 3-3 mark.

Incoming to first base

University of Saskatchewan Women’s Softball Team shortstop Ainsley Beattie fires off a throw to first base for an out during her team’s 4-0 win in a Western Collegiate Softball Association regular season clash with the U of Lethbridge Pronghorns on September 13 at Bob Van Impe Stadium. U of S completed the WCSA Championship Tournament in Calgary on October 4 with a 2-2 record.

Big stretch

A receiver reaches for extra yards in a Toon Squad Female Flag Football League contest on September 21 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. The league is overseen by Saskatoon Minor Football, and it is full of good vibes, intensity, passion and athleticism.

Smiles all around from Huskies

A group of multi-event athletes from the University of Saskatchewan Huskies Women’s Track and Field Team pose for a group picture during a training session break on September 22 at the Track and Field Track. These ladies are smiling, because they love being out at the track.

Hurdle slide

Members of the University of Saskatchewan Huskies Track and Field teams do a slide step through a hurdle during a training session on September 22 at the Track and Field Track. Every September, the Huskies Track and Field teams gather for training at the Track and Field Track. The athletes do various drills which are geared to help them in the track and field event they are competing in. These sessions mark some of the first times the Huskies teams for the 2026-27 campaign get together as a group.

Swing pass to the open field

Quarterback Everett Byers of the Tinkler Raiders throws a swing pass to the right flat during a KFL game on September 27 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. Byers hit running back Luca Thomas for a big gain as the Raiders would blank the Martensville Maddogs 19-0.

Klein in the zone for Mystics

Mystics receiver Olivia Klein had a monster night in Toon Squad Female Flag Football League action on September 28 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. On that night, Klein scored five touchdowns over two games helping the Mystics win both of those outings. Klein played for Football Canada’s U17 female flag team this past summer.

Thrilling finish

A trio of Bishop James Mahoney High School Saints defensive players converge and knock down a final end zone pass attempt to Aden Bowman Collegiate Bear receiver Harrison Shirkey during a high school football game on October 1 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. That last play of the game pass knockdown preserved a 24-21 victory for the Saints. On that last play, the Bears ran a trick play that saw star receiver Ben Blackburn throw the final pass to Shirkey, who was wide open at the release of the toss. The Saints defensive players closed in quickly to make the final play to hold on for the win.

Going down

Defensive lineman Mason Mansiere (#99) of the St. Joseph High School Guardians takes down Walter Murray Collegiate Marauders running back Lucas Hawley during a high school football contest on October 2 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. In the “Friday Night Lights” encounter, the Guardians held a 19-14 edge at halftime before exploding to a 57-21 win.

Johnson makes senior’s walk with Hilltops

Saskatoon Hilltops left tackle Davin Johnson, centre, makes a walk out to the playing surface of Saskatoon Minor Football Field with his father, Greg, and mother, Lori, on October 4. For a lengthy number of years, the Hilltops honour their graduating players at their final regular season home game where they walk to the field with their parents or guardians. A total of 11 graduating players made that walk on this day.

Bazarkiewicz throws first TD pass for Hilltops

Rookie quarterback Sam Bazarkiewicz experienced a couple of milestone moments playing for the CJFL’s storied and historic Saskatoon Hilltops on October 4. The St. Joseph High School Guardian Football Team graduate made his first regular season start at quarterback for the Hilltops. In the first quarter of that contest, Bazarkiewicz connected on a deep route to second-year receiver Tyson Korol for a 63-yard touchdown pass. Bazarkiewicz is setting to throw that deep pass in this photo. That was the first CJFL regular season touchdown pass of Bazarkiewicz’s career. While the Hilltops got out to an early 10-0 lead in that game, they fell 27-11 to the Winnipeg Rifles.

Hilltops Cheer Team holds court

The Saskatoon Hilltop Cheer Team performs a pyramid pose during a halftime performance on October 4 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. Established in 1977, the Hilltop Cheer Team is the longest running cheer program in the CJFL.

Hilltops’ Bednarek slick in open field

Saskatoon Hilltops fifth-year receiver Luke Bednarek, left, makes a slick sidestep move to avoid Winnipeg Rifles outside linebacker Kenji Suga on October 4 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. In a contest where the Rifles prevailed 27-11, Bednarek had a big game hauling in nine passes for 133 yards.

Eye on the ball

Marion M. Graham Collegiate Falcons Ben Wheeler tracks the ball into his hands during a punt return during a high school football contest on October 8 at Saskatoon Minor Football Field. Wheeler is one of the Falcons steady veterans that helped them blank the Evan Hard Collegiate Souls 46-0 on this night and improve to 5-1 overall with a fourth straight win.