Vancouver Rise return home to cheering fans after winning the inaugural NSL championship, capping a dramatic comeback season for women’s pro soccer in Canada.
Vancouver Rise Greeted by Cheering Fans After Historic NSL Win
A Championship Homecoming Filled With Emotion
Vancouver Rise FC arrived at Vancouver International Airport on Sunday afternoon to an eruption of cheers, songs, and signature crow calls from supporters eager to welcome home the first-ever Northern Super League champions. The team returned less than 24 hours after their dramatic comeback victory over top-ranked AFC Toronto in the inaugural NSL championship final, a match marked by lightning delays, shifting momentum, and high-stakes suspense.
Fans Gather Early to Celebrate a Breakthrough Moment
Dozens of supporters, including families, young fans, and longtime season-ticket holders, crowded the arrivals area waving scarves, flags, and handmade signs. Among them was Erika Wootten, a dedicated member of the Crow Collective—the team’s spirited supporters group inspired by the nightly crow migration over Burnaby and Swangard Stadium. She said the chance to meet the players in person after following them all season was unforgettable.
Supporter Culture Anchored in Grit and Resilience
Wootten said crow calls felt fitting for a team defined by its tough, comeback-driven style of play. Vancouver, who finished third in the regular season, entered the final as underdogs against a Toronto side that led the league in scoring. “The Vancouver style of play is all about grit and resilience,” she said. “They’ve shown that all season long, and the final was no exception.”
A Final Marked by Pressure, Patience, and a Stunning Turnaround
During Saturday’s championship match, Toronto dominated early stretches and generated the bulk of scoring chances. But Vancouver held their composure, weathered the pressure, and struck back in the second half to tie the game. A late decisive goal completed the comeback and secured the NSL’s first-ever title, igniting celebrations both in-person and across the country.
Coaching Staff Credits Fans for Fueling the Team’s Spirit
Rise head coach Anja Heiner-Møller said the supporters played an essential role throughout the season and into the playoffs. She noted that many fans bought tickets to the final before the team had even qualified. “They wanted to be part of history,” she said. Heiner-Møller added that the squad’s ability to remain calm under pressure—whether playing shorthanded, chasing a deficit, or grinding through extra time—has been a defining characteristic.
Players Reflect on a Historic Moment for Canadian Soccer
Forward Mariah Lee said the magnitude of the championship win is still sinking in. “I woke up a champion today. I can’t believe it,” she said. Beyond Vancouver’s triumph, Lee emphasized the broader impact of the NSL season on women’s sports in Canada. “We have world-class players. Everyone can see the quality in this league,” she said. “The whole world should be on notice about Canadian women’s soccer.”
Federal Funding Signals Stronger Future for the NSL
The celebration came just one day after the federal government announced up to $5.45 million in funding to support the Northern Super League and accelerate the growth of women’s professional soccer in Canada. The investment, paired with the league’s high-energy inaugural season, signals significant momentum for the sport nationally.
A Victory That Resonates Beyond the Championship Trophy
For fans, players, and organizers, Vancouver Rise’s championship represents both a local triumph and a milestone for Canadian women’s soccer. As supporters continued chanting and cawing throughout the airport, the message was clear: this victory is only the beginning of a new era.
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