Jackson Tachinski from Winnipeg expressed that he was filled with emotion when Canada’s men’s flag football team achieved a historic milestone this past weekend.
Tachinski and his teammates secured a bronze medal at the IFAF World Flag Football Championships held in Dusseldorf, Germany, triumphing over Mexico with a score of 34-26 on Sunday. The match concluded dramatically as Guillaume Béland intercepted a pass from Mexico, enabling Canada to clinch the win in overtime.
This victory allowed Canada to qualify for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, marking the inaugural inclusion of flag football as an Olympic event.
“After that interception, it was quite an emotional moment,” Tachinski recounted.
“It was certainly an experience that is hard to put into words,” he stated. “Just being present in that moment was incredible. I wish everyone could feel that way. It felt so surreal.”
Tachinski mentioned that he is “still somewhat speechless” regarding the victory.
Although the Olympics are two years away, he emphasized that representing Canada at such a prestigious event would be a remarkable honor.
Both the men’s and women’s flag football teams from Canada made history last weekend by qualifying for the 2028 Olympics, where the sport will debut. The men’s team has ties to Winnipeg.
“I think it would be an amazing experience,” Tachinski remarked. “Just being in the Olympic Village and being part of that atmosphere would be incredible. Even attending the [world championship] was fantastic.”
Canada’s women’s team is also on their way to the Olympics. They defeated the United States 27-20 on Sunday, wrapping up an undefeated tournament. Quarterback Sara Parker was awarded the title of most valuable player for the event.
In Winnipeg, Blue Bombers head coach Mike O’Shea praised both teams following practice on Monday.
“I am tremendously proud,” he commented.
Winnipeg Blue Bombers head coach Mike O’Shea expresses pride in both flag football teams. (CBC)
“I wouldn’t say it’s envy or jealousy; it’s just the significance of representing your country, which means so much to me,” he explained. “I tried to follow the broadcasts and catch some of the action when I could. But I am just thrilled for both teams.”
Players from the CFL and NFL will also be permitted to compete in flag football during the 2028 Olympics.
Nic Demski, a receiver for the Blue Bombers and a Winnipeg native, mentioned on Monday that he hasn’t dismissed the idea of aiming for a spot on the Olympic team. However, with the event two years away, he is uncertain about his football career trajectory by then.
“Competing on a national stage for your country is an incredible opportunity,” he stated. “I have told those guys, ‘Yes, I play professional football, but you have the chance to represent the flag on your back.’
Paul LaPolice, head coach of Team Canada, has previously worked in Winnipeg as both head coach and offensive coordinator for the Bombers. He indicated that determining any CFL or NFL players for the roster will occur at a later date.
“That will be something to explore down the line,” LaPolice noted. “We will address that aspect eventually, but for now, I am happy with this group, and we will celebrate with them.”
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Road to Olympics for Canadian men’s flag football team makes stop in Winnipeg
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Canadian women beat U.S. to win flag football world championship, men earn berth to L.A. 2028 Olympics
He emphasized that the appeal of flag football lies in its accessibility and the creativity it allows players on the field.
“It doesn’t require a significant financial investment to participate, and it’s a lot of fun,” LaPolice stated. “The ball is frequently in the air, with numerous passes.
“The level of creativity in flag football at the IFAF level is remarkable, with multiple quarterbacks and laterals. It’s quite an exciting experience to be a part of.”
At the grassroots level, Football Manitoba CEO Bill Johnson noted that these characteristics are contributing to the ongoing growth of flag football, and the Olympic qualifications will further elevate its visibility.
“I believe people are beginning to recognize that, ‘Wow, these individuals are truly outstanding athletes competing at the highest levels,'” he said.