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KAITLYN’S SPORT STORIES: JULY 21, 2026

In this edition, we explore Winnipeg’s addition as the Northern Super League‘s newest expansion franchise, set to debut in 2027, and celebrate Marina Mabrey becoming the Toronto Tempo’s first-ever WNBA All-Star. We also cover Canada’s historic $1 billion investment in sport and Sadé McCreath‘s record-breaking performance that made her the fastest woman in Canadian history. Lastly, we highlight Canadian Olympian Kayla Alexander and her signing with the Toronto Tempo.

WINNIPEG JOINS THE NORTHERN SUPER LEAGUE FOR 2027

The Northern Super League (NSL) is heading to Winnipeg! The league announced that its newest club will begin play in 2027, with Canadian soccer icon and Winnipeg native Desiree Scott serving as Co-Founder and Vice President of Community & Player Experience. She’ll be joined by Co-Founder and Chief Sporting Officer, Rob Gale. The announcement comes after more than 3,000 supporters signed a petition to bring professional women’s soccer to the city.

The expansion aligns with the league’s long-term vision. In fall 2025, NSL Founder and Chief Growth Officer, Diana Matheson shared that Winnipeg, Edmonton, Victoria, and Saskatoon were the leading markets being considered for expansion. She emphasized the importance of growing the league in Central and Western Canada to improve regional representation and strengthen player pathways.

Details on the team’s branding, coaching staff, president, and stadium partnership are still to come, but fans can already place season ticket deposits for the 2027 season here.

marina mabrey named toronto tempo’s first wnba all-star

Toronto Tempo guard Marina Mabrey has been named a WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association) All-Star reserve, becoming the franchise’s first-ever All-Star selection in its inaugural season and earning the first All-Star honour of her career. The recognition also follows a historic performance in which Mabrey tied the WNBA single-game scoring record with 53 points. She’ll suit up at WNBA All-Star in Chicago, IL on July 25, 2026.

CANADA ANNOUNCES HISTORIC $1 BILLION INVESTMENT IN SPORT

Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced the Government of Canada’s largest-ever investment in sport, committing $1 billion to improve access to sport nationwide. The funding will support upgrades to community stadiums, fields, parks, and recreation spaces while helping athletes progress “from playground to podium.” The investment also includes support for the Canada Soccer National Training Centre and comes as Canada celebrates co-hosting the FIFA Men’s World Cup. Carney emphasized the importance of investing in local clubs and national teams year-round, not just during major international tournaments.

Sprinter Sadé McCreath sets new canadian sprint record

Canadian sprinter Sadé McCreath made history at the 2026 Edmonton Athletics Invitational, setting a new Canadian women’s 100-metre record with a time of 10.86 seconds. The Ajax, ON native is quickly establishing herself as one of Canada’s top sprinters after also reaching the Olympic final at Paris 2024 and helping set a Canadian record in the women’s 4×100-metre relay. Her latest performance officially makes her the fastest woman in Canadian history.

kayla alexander returns home to join the toronto tempo

Canadian Olympian Kayla Alexander has signed her second seven-day hardship contract with the WNBA‘s Toronto Tempo. The Milton, ON native joins the club after a professional career that has included stints with the San Antonio Silver Stars (now known as the Las Vegas Aces), Indiana Fever, Chicago Sky, and Minnesota Lynx. As a two-time Olympian for Team Canada, Alexander brings veteran leadership and international experience as she returns home to play for Canada’s WNBA team.

 

Kaitlyn’s Sport Stories Recap are written by Kaitlyn Lehbert, a passionate and driven sport advocate for girls and women. Kaitlyn holds her Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management from Brock University. Learn more about Kaitlyn by clicking here!

Have a sport story you want to share? Contact info@girlsforward.ca and it may get featured in Kaitlyn’s next feature.