BC Lions add Tanya Walter, CFL’s first full-time female coach

Tanya Walter has made history in the CFL as the BC Lions’ new defensive assistant. She is the first woman to be hired in a full-time coaching position in league history.

Walter, who was born in Forestburg, Alberta, began her football career in 2013 as a player with the Edmonton Storm of the Western Women’s Canadian Football League. She went on to represent Team Alberta and Team Canada, helping the national women’s team win a Silver medal at the IFAF Women’s World Championship in 2017.

“I am honoured and grateful to the Lions organization for providing me the opportunity to make this significant step in my coaching career."#BCLions hire Tanya Walter as the first full-time female coach in @CFL history ????????

— BC LIONS (@BCLions) February 15, 2022

“I am honoured and grateful to the Lions organization for providing me the opportunity to make this significant step in my coaching career,” said Walter.

“I can’t wait to get to work with this Lions team.”

She coached high school football in Edmonton from 2017-21 and made a guest coaching appearance with the CJFL Edmonton Huskies. Walter has also served as an assistant for the West Edmonton Raiders girls tackle football team.

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Head Coach Rick Campbell says he’s excited about the addition of Walter to the coaching staff.

“Along with her experience and dedication to the game of football, Tanya’s work ethic and enthusiasm will be valuable to our entire team.”