Tanya Boychuk, forward with Montréal Roses in the NSL, shares what it means to help build the game in Canada.
The launch of the NSL marks a major moment for women’s sport in Canada. What does this league represent to you personally?
This league is incredibly special to me. It has given me a sense of purpose that goes far beyond playing for myself – it’s about contributing to the growth of women’s soccer in Canada and helping move the game forward for future generations.
The opportunities the NSL is creating for players across the country are something we’ve dreamed about for a long time, and it’s inspiring to be part of this historic moment.
On a personal level, one of the most meaningful parts of this experience is being able to play at home in front of my family and friends. Having their support in the stands and representing my community every week is something I never take for granted. One of my favourite parts is singing the Canadian national anthem before our games. For more than eight years, I stood before matches listening to other countries’ national anthems, so every opportunity I have now to sing ours is something I truly cherish and don’t take for granted. It’s a privilege to help build something bigger than ourselves and to show young girls that they can dream of playing professionally right here in Canada.
What role do leagues like the NSL have in changing who gets to play, watch, and belong in sport?
Leagues like the NSL create opportunities for people to see themselves in the game in ways they may not have before. It’s not just about providing professional opportunities for players—it’s about creating a space where more people feel connected to the sport, whether that’s as athletes, fans, coaches, officials, or future leaders in the game.
The NSL is helping make women’s soccer more visible and accessible across the country. Young girls can now watch professional players competing in their own communities and believe that a pathway exists for them too. At the same time, it gives sports fans in Canada something exciting to rally behind and be part of from the very beginning.
What makes this league so special is that everyone involved—players, staff, supporters, and communities—is helping build something meaningful together. We’re not just growing a league; we’re creating a place where more people can feel that they belong in sport.
Looking ahead, what gives you the most hope for the future of women’s sport in Canada?
The thing that gives me the most hope is knowing that the next generation will have opportunities that previous generations didn’t. The NSL has helped create a clear pathway for young athletes to pursue their dreams without having to leave Canada.
A professional women’s league in Canada has been a long time coming, and we’re all incredibly grateful to Diana Matheson and everyone who worked tirelessly to make it happen. Canada has consistently shown on the international stage that we produce some of the best players in the world, and now young athletes will have the chance to develop in professional environments at an earlier age, surrounded by great coaches, resources, and role models.
Most importantly, they’ll be able to see what’s possible. They’ll be able to attend games, connect with players, and dream bigger because they can see a professional future for themselves right here at home. That’s what makes me so optimistic about the future of women’s sport in Canada.
Find more from Tanya Boychuk on Instagram.
