The Canadian Football League has unveiled a new cohort of participants in this year’s Women in Football internship program.
All nine CFL franchises will welcome one additional woman to join their football operations department for approximately four weeks, including training camp from May 12 to June 1.
Participants gain first-hand practical experience working in professional football and networking opportunities through the program. They also receive one-on-one mentorship from program sponsor KPMG, which provides insight about working in corporate environments, helps build connections and supports personal development.
“Each year, we’re amazed by the incredibly talented group of participants who join this program, and I know this year will be no different,” CFL commissioner Randy Ambrosie said in a statement.
“We’re committed to working with KPMG to continue this journey of growth. While there’s more to do, we’re taking steps towards a more positive and inclusive future for our great game. The program presents the participants with a unique opportunity, and at such a busy time of the season with so much going on, I know our teams are grateful for their added help and expertise.”
The Women in Football program is now entering its third year. Several participants have since been hired full-time or on a contract basis with CFL teams, most notably Edmonton Elks head strength and conditioning coach Erin Craig, assistant video coordinator Shaylee Foord, and Hamilton Tiger-Cats director of corporate partnerships Paige Ottaviano.
The full list of 2024 participants can be read below.
WOMEN IN FOOTBALL PROGRAM – 2024 COHORT
(Team: Name | Area of focus | Hometown)
- Montreal: Émilie Pfeiffer-Badoux | Coaching | Montreal, Que.
- Ottawa: Kristine Walker | Strength and Conditioning | Ottawa, Ont.
- Toronto: Liya Equbagzi | Football Operations | Ottawa, Ont.
- Hamilton: Bella Forbes | Football Operations | Hamilton, Ont.
- Winnipeg: Kennedy Molloy | Football Operations | La Salle, Man.
- Saskatchewan: Maren Tunison | Administration | Regina, Sask.
- Calgary: Cori Thorstad | Equipment Management | Saskatoon, Sask.
- Edmonton: Kae Allison | Football Operations | St. Catharines, Ont.
- BC: Rachel Bayer | Football Operations and Partnerships | Sherbrooke, Que.
