Three St. Albertans helped Team Alberta football overcome four time defending champion Team Saskacthewan 35-0 to win a Bronze medal at the 2024 Canada Cup last weekend.
Wide receiver Darius Crandell from the Bellrose Bulldogs, offensive lineman James Carr from the Paul Kane Blues, and wide receiver Tanner Mcbride from the Sturgeon Spirits suited up for Alberta in the tournament, which started off strong as they beat Team New Brunswick 22-0 in their first matchup.
In the semi-final against long-time rival Team Quebec, Team Alberta was able to control the line of scrimmage for most of the game, resulting in a late 11-9 lead. However, the game finished with some controversial calls made by the officials, allowing Team Quebec to kick a field goal with no time left, winning 12-11.
Team Alberta released a statement following the loss.
"During the course of the tightly contested contest, officiating errors at the end of the game stripped Alberta of a hard fought victory."
The statement also went on to commend Team Alberta for how they handled the controversy.
"The main intent of this release is to commend the 50 coaches, players, and staff, plus the families of the players for Team Alberta for the outstanding display of character and class in the face of this heartbreaking moment."
Team Alberta was able to use the controversy as motivation to win the Bronze medal game against the host, Team Saskatchewan, their first medial since 2022.
