BC Lions Sign Tanya Walter, First Female Coach in CFL

In a ceiling-shattering move, the B.C. Lions have become the first CFL club to bring on a female coach full-time. Tanya Walter was signed as a defensive assistant coach on Tuesday.

Walters comes to B.C. from Forestburg, Atla., started her coaching career with Edmonton’s St. Francis Xavier High School in 2017 until just last season.

“I am honored and grateful to the Lions organization for providing me the opportunity to make this significant step in my coaching career,” Walter said. “I can’t wait to get to work with this Lions team.”

Walter started her football career in 2013 in Edmonton with the Storm of the Western Women’s Candian Football League. Also, she played with Alberta’s squad, and Candian women’s club which won silver at the 2017 IFAF world championship event.

“I am excited for the opportunity to add Tanya to our coaching staff,” said Rick Campbell, the Lions co-GM. “Along with her experience and dedication to the game of football, Tanya’s work ethic and enthusiasm will be valuable to our entire team.”

Walters graced the Candian Junior Football League’s Edmonton Huskies with her presence as a guest coach, and also as an assistant coach with the West Edmonton Raiders girls take football team.