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Local Physician Brings Home Silver Medal at Inaugural International Women's Medical Football Championship
Dr. Becky Falk, a local physician, represented Canada playing soccer at the first-ever women's division at the World Medical Football Championship (WMFC) in Australia's Sunshine Coast July 20th-27th. Dr. Falk is a specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and practices out of Progression, Muscle, Bone & Joint Clinic as well as the Vernon Jubilee Hospital. The Canadian Women's Medical Football Team, a team consisting of women physician soccer players from around the country, emerged with a stellar silver medal performance, being edged out by the hosting Australia squad in the final after previously beating them in the group stage.
This tournament, which previously featured only men's teams, saw the debut of women's teams, making it a landmark event. The Canadian team showcased exceptional teamwork, camaraderie, and dedication, achieving an impressive record of 5-1-1 throughout the tournament, only losing in the final match. Beyond sport, the WMFC also involves a Sport Medicine Conference focusing on education in wellness and sport. After a hard day on the pitch, participating physicians engaged in collaborative learning and continuing medical education.
In addition to their on-field success and educational endeavors, the team also made a significant impact in the community by raising over $7,000 for 'Pushing Barriers,' a charity out of Brisbane dedicated to funding refugee youth athletes to participate in community sports.
Of the 16 player squad, there were 4 from British Columbia, and they represented well. The Canadian team's goalie, Dr. Elena Schroeder out of Cranbrook, BC was honored with the prestigious Golden Glove Award, recognizing her as the tournament's best goalkeeper. Furthermore, the center midfielder, Dr. Falk, was named Player of the Tournament for the Canadian team, highlighting her outstanding performance and leadership.
The World Medical Football Championships provide a unique platform for medical professionals to engage in friendly competition while fostering international camaraderie and promoting physical fitness and continuing education. This year's event marked a significant step forward in promoting gender equality in sports, and the Canadian Women's Medical Football Team's success is a testament to the growing strength and talent of women in sport.
About the Canadian Women's Medical Football Team:
The Canadian Women's Medical Football Team is composed of dedicated female physicians from across Canada who share a passion for football and medicine. The team competes in international tournaments, promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and international collaboration among medical professionals.
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