Crew top Cowichan team at Sun Bowl

Sun Bowl 38 tournament came to a close on Sunday, June 15 leaving a trail of excitement and sportsmanship in its wake. Over the course of two days, 11 teams from across the region and beyond gathered to compete in a total of 33 games at the Cowichan Women's Flag Football League's annual tournament.

All told, there were four teams from the CVRD, four from Vancouver, two from Victoria and one from Nanaimo taking part.

Organizer Chris Mann said the tournament peaked at 21 teams, including some of the top teams from North America in Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, Texas and Mexico, but then COVID hit and they've had to start over.

"With flag football in the coming Olympics, I'm sure we will see a new boost in numbers going forward," he said. 

In the Top Flight Division, the Vancouver Filly's galloped to victory, defeating the Vancouver Bombshells in a thrilling match-up.

In the Almost Top Flight Division, the league-champion Cowichan Crew dismantled the Vancouver Salty Sirens, showcasing their skills and determination.

"I have always been so proud of every Cowichan team that has entered the tournament, they play full out, have fun and always come away smiling, no matter the outcome and that radiates to the visiting teams," said Mann.

Individual awards were also handed out, recognizing outstanding players and teams for their achievements. Teenver Brar from the Vancouver Filly's took home the coveted MVP award, while the Victoria Wolfpack was named the Most Sportsmanlike team. The Pink Pony Club was awarded the Inspirational Team award, and Ashton Aumen from the 101 Dalmatians and Jacquie Lathrope from the Cowichan Crew were recognized as the Best Offensive players in their respective divisions. Taylor Cagampan from the Vancouver Panthers and Jodi Dobush from the Vancouver Bombshells were named the Best Defensive players.

The tournament also featured a significant prize purse, with more than $3,100 in prize money handed out to the competing teams. The event was sponsored, in part, by local businesses Country Grocer-Duncan and Voyage Liquor Merchants.

"Organizers and participants alike praised the McAdam Park Fields, which were meticulously maintained by Duncan's park crew, and the Cowichan Minor Football concession stand, which was a huge success," said Mann. "Special thanks were extended to the Mann Family, Val Chambers, and all the referees for their continued support of the Cowichan Women's Flag Football League."

As the teams packed up and headed home, they were all smiles, already looking forward to next year's tournament. With its unique blend of competition, sportsmanship, and community spirit, Sun Bowl has cemented its place as a beloved event in the local sports scene.