Maya Turner, a kicker for the Manitoba Bisons, is breaking down barriers and inspiring women in sports with her historic accomplishments in men’s football.
Turner made history by becoming the first woman to play and score in a regular-season U Sports football game during a recent match. As the University of Manitoba’s kicker, she successfully made two field goals, including the game-winning kick in overtime, securing a 27-24 victory over the University of Regina Rams at IG Field in Winnipeg.
In a phone interview following team meetings, Turner expressed her belief that her achievement can serve as an inspiration for other women aspiring to excel in men’s football at a high level. She emphasized that with dedication and the right support, women can compete and succeed in football.
Her historic moment came with a 21-yard field goal in the second quarter, marking her first points in the game and giving Manitoba a 3-2 lead. Her teammates and coaches celebrated her accomplishment, recognizing the significance of the moment.
Bisons head coach Brian Dobie, who has been leading the team since 1996, shared a heartfelt congratulations with Turner, emphasizing the pride he felt as both a coach and a father of a daughter.
In the crucial overtime period, Turner once again demonstrated her skill by kicking another 21-yard field goal, securing the victory for Manitoba. Her contributions, including successful conversion kicks, amounted to nine points in the game.
Maya Turner had previously made history by scoring points in a U Sports game when she kicked a 25-yard field goal in a Bisons pre-season game the previous year. Before joining the Bisons, she played NCAA Division I soccer at Loyola University in Chicago. She decided to explore football after leaving the soccer team in her second season in August 2021. Despite her university not having a football team, she tried out for a club football squad, found her passion for the sport, and attended kicking camps.
Dobie and the Bisons were cautious but impressed with her kicking skills when they first evaluated her film. They offered her a tryout in April 2022, during which she displayed remarkable accuracy. She was officially signed to the team with the support of her parents.
Throughout her journey with the Bisons, Turner has continued to improve her skills, with guidance from Winnipeg Blue Bombers placekicker Sergio Castillo. The team’s strategy involved having Vinny De Rosa attempt longer field goals, while Turner focused on shorter kicks.
Turner’s inclusion in the game against the University of Regina Rams was especially meaningful because her family had planned to attend the match. After the victory, Dobie recognized her contributions by presenting her with a game ball. The school has preserved the balls from her historic kicks in case they are someday displayed in a hall of fame.
While Turner’s accomplishment is a significant milestone in Canadian university football, it also reflects the inclusive and supportive environment fostered by her teammates. She feels respected as a valued member of the team and is grateful for the supportive team environment.
Coach Dobie believes that beyond teaching the technical aspects of the game, university sports programs also have a responsibility to teach life lessons. He takes pride in the positive impact this experience has had on the young men in his program.
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