Vancouver Rise FC landed at Vancouver International Airport on Sunday afternoon to a cheerful reception from supporters celebrating their victory in the inaugural Northern Super League (NSL) championship. The team had just made a stunning comeback against AFC Toronto in a thrilling final match, marked by lightning delays and intense moments on the field.

Fans of all ages gathered at the airport, waving scarves and signs as the players emerged. Erika Wootten, a devoted follower of the team and a member of the Crow Collective supporters group, expressed her excitement at meeting the players in person after watching them throughout the season.

Wootten highlighted the team’s resilience and determination, traits that were evident in their gameplay all season long. Despite facing challenges and being considered underdogs, Vancouver Rise managed to turn the tide in their favor, eventually securing the championship title.

Head coach Anja Heiner-Møller acknowledged the unwavering support of the fans, emphasizing their role in motivating the team to achieve success. The fans’ commitment was evident as they showed up in large numbers, even before the team had qualified for the finals, demonstrating their desire to be part of history.

The team’s ability to remain composed under pressure and stage comebacks in difficult situations was a key factor in their victory. Mariah Lee, a forward for Vancouver Rise, expressed her disbelief at waking up as a champion and emphasized the significance of the win for women’s sports in Canada.

The championship win not only brought glory to Vancouver but also showcased the high caliber of talent in the Canadian league, indicating a positive trajectory for women’s sports. The federal government’s commitment to supporting the NSL with a financial injection further underscores the importance of growing women’s professional soccer in the country.