Sabrina Gervais, a mother, healthcare professional, and experienced flag football player, is aiming to include “Olympian” in her list of achievements. Leading Canada’s national women’s team in the 2026 world championship, Gervais not only seeks a gold medal but also a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where flag football will debut.
Participating in the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championship in Düsseldorf, Germany, Canada faces Panama, Brazil, and Japan in the upcoming matches. The top two teams will secure Olympic berths, with a chance for a third if the United States reaches the gold-medal game as the host country.
While the world championship serves as an Olympic qualifier, there are additional opportunities for qualification. Canada, a strong contender for gold, earned its spot by finishing as runner-up in the previous IFAF Americas Continental championship.
Gervais, a 36-year-old from Maskinonge, Que., remains optimistic about facing Mexico again after a weather-induced interruption in their last encounter. Reflecting on Canada’s bronze win at the 2025 World Games in China, she acknowledges the growing recognition of the team’s prowess.
Balancing her football career with motherhood and a full-time job in healthcare, Gervais emphasizes the importance of resilience, support, and self-care in maintaining her performance. Mentoring younger players and appreciating the leadership of coach Rachel Lessard contribute to Canada’s success.
Emphasizing teamwork and chemistry over individual talent, Gervais remains focused on the present, taking a day-by-day approach to her athletic career. While not fixating on Olympic achievements, she aims to inspire others through her dedication and impact on and off the field.