Sabrina Gervais, a mother, healthcare professional, and seasoned flag football player, is aiming to add an Olympic achievement to her already impressive resume. Leading Canada’s national women’s team at the 2026 world championship, Gervais is not only eyeing a gold medal but also a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Games, where flag football will debut as an Olympic sport.
Expressing her excitement, Gervais shared, “It would be fulfilling a dream I never thought possible. The Olympics were never on my radar, but now that it’s within reach, I believe in the potential if I remain healthy and continue to guide my team.”
The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championship kicks off in Düsseldorf, Germany, with Canada set to compete against Panama, Brazil, and Japan. The top two teams will secure Olympic berths, while the United States, already guaranteed a spot as the host nation, could open up additional opportunities.
Canada, a strong contender for the gold in Germany, earned its place in the world championship by finishing as runners-up in the previous IFAF Americas Continental championship. Gervais, a 36-year-old from Maskinonge, Que., is optimistic about facing Mexico, the team that defeated Canada in a weather-shortened match last year, and hopes for a full rematch.
Reflecting on Canada’s recent success and growing recognition in the sport, Gervais mentioned, “We are gaining more visibility, especially after defeating the U.S. at the USA Football Summer Series. Our focus remains on playing at our best level, and the outcomes will follow suit.”
Aside from her sporting endeavors, Gervais, a flag football veteran with 24 years of experience, balances her athletic career with motherhood and a full-time profession as an osteopath and kinesiologist. She emphasized the importance of resilience, patience, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to sustain her performance on and off the field.
In addition to her personal achievements, Gervais is committed to mentoring younger players and acknowledges the crucial role of head coach Rachel Lessard in Canada’s global achievements. Emphasizing the team’s chemistry and unity, Gervais believes these factors are key to their strength in international competitions.
Taking a day-by-day approach to her athletic career, Gervais remains focused on the present while not ruling out the possibility of adding an Olympic medal to her accolades in the future. She emphasized the impact of determination and setting an example for others, both on and off the field, particularly for the upcoming generation of athletes.