Canada’s flag football teams are gearing up for an important competition in Panama City that could shape their Olympic dreams. The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) Continental championship will determine the top-five teams that will secure a spot in the ’26 IFAF world competition. From there, the top-three teams will earn direct entry into the ’28 Los Angeles Summer Games, where flag football will debut in the Olympics.
Paul LaPolice, the seasoned CFL coach leading the Canadian men’s flag team, emphasized the significance of finishing in the top-five to progress further. The competition kicks off with Canada facing Guatemala and Brazil in their pool A matches, followed by games against Colombia and the United States. Despite acknowledging the tough competition, especially from the five-time world champions, LaPolice remains optimistic about Canada’s chances.
The tournament format includes a medal round on Sunday where the top-two teams from each division will battle for gold and bronze. On the women’s side, Canada is coming off a strong performance at the ’25 World Games, securing a bronze medal. Quarterback Sara Parker expressed confidence in the team’s abilities and is eager to showcase their talent on the international stage.
In the men’s division, quarterback Michael O’Connor and former NFL tight end Antony Auclair will play pivotal roles for Canada. LaPolice highlighted the team’s defensive capabilities and the ongoing process of team cohesion as crucial factors in their success. Despite his extensive CFL background, LaPolice admitted to still learning the nuances of the flag football game and aims to improve through game experience and system understanding.
The women’s team will begin their campaign against Argentina, with subsequent matches against Guatemala and Mexico. Both teams are set to compete in a highly anticipated tournament that could shape their path to Olympic qualification.