Positive era

Series of memorable experiences define positive time for Schnoor

For a world class athlete such as Stevi Schnoor, a tremendous aspect of competition is the chance to engage in a new experience, push one’s limits to greater heights and possibly escape one’s comfort zone. The opportunity to compete on the gridiron in Australia and serving as an ambassador for the growing sprot of female football certainly fulfilled that need.

As a group of individuals hosted its first event, British Columbia-raised Schnoor was given the opportunity to grace the gridiron in an international tournament featuring players from host country Australia, New Zealand and the United States. Joining several other competitors that Schnoor is familiar with from the United States, she was the only Canadian on a US team looking to capture the title.

Taking into account that Schnoor also holds a background in coaching girls rugby, her leadership skills complemented an athletic skill that made her an essential component of Team USA’s offensive attack. With Team USA having several young stars on their team such as quarterback Sindy Cummings, Schnoor’s presence provided confidence. It was a common thread that all three teams possessed,

“Each team had a handful of vet players and new players, so you get a spread in development levels.”

In the aftermath of the tourney, a great feeling of optimism defined the experience for all the remarkable women that participated. The outpouring of support, especially from North American fans on social media only enriched the event. Perhaps even more essential was the feeling of friendship and sportsmanship that existed. It is an aspect that Schnoor reflects upon with great pride,

While Schnoor’s football experience in Australia resulted in forming new friendships and the chance to participate in international play, there was also a special opportunity for Schnoor to tap into her athletic roots. Having played for Canada’s National Rugby Team, Schnoor’s first glories as an athlete came on the rugby pitch before the gridiron.

Like hockey is to Canada, rugby holds the same place in the hearts of athletes and fans in Australia and New Zealand. The opportunity for Schnoor to complement her football experience in Australia with the chance to compete in the sport that has brought her so much acclaim was highly valued.

“I actually did get to play some rugby while I was in Australia. An old coach of mine now coaches the NZ Wasps International 7’s team, and they were heading to Sydney to compete in the Central Coast 7’s. So when he found out I was in Melbourne he contacted me and asked me if I would be interested in coming to Sydney to play with them. Of course I said yes!

I was extremely lucky to have had the opportunity to wear the NZ jersey and play next to some of the greatest players in NZ right now. We actually did pretty well and ended up losing to Canada in the semi finals (funny coincidence), but it was awesome to see and play against some of my old Canada teammates on an international stage again! That was by far one of the highlights of my time in Australia, and something I will never forget.”

Although Schnoor is back in British Columbia, there will always be a place in her heart for the mutual love of both football and rugby shared by the empowering women in Australia and New Zealand. Her dedication, strong work ethic and perseverance definitely reflected proudly among Canadian fans, solidifying her status as not just a world class athlete but a world class person. There is no question that the experience has also transformed Schnoor into an even stronger leader, looking towards the future with great eagerness,

“I believe whatever gets girls playing football on a more competitive level, all around the world, is nothing short of an amazing thing.”

“All quotes obtained first hand unless otherwise indicated”