Bison kicker Turner named captain, shows she belongs

Maya Turner, the Manitoba Bisons kicker, has been named captain, showcasing her abilities and belonging to the team. Turner, a fifth-year student-athlete, previously excelled in NCAA Division 1 soccer at Loyola University in Chicago before switching to the gridiron and joining the Bisons. Initially met with skepticism, she proved her worth by becoming the first woman to play a regular-season game and score a point in 2023, making a decisive 21-yard field goal in overtime.

Turner was subsequently named a Canada West All-Star in 2024, becoming the first woman to earn football all-star honors in any U Sports conference, highlighting her exceptional skill and dedication. Coach Stan Pierre and his staff elected Turner as a captain on the final day of training camp, recognizing her leadership qualities, hard work, and exemplary behavior both on and off the field.

Turner, known for her quiet demeanor, maintains confidence and trust from her teammates, even as she acknowledges the pressure of consistently performing at her best. Despite the Bisons' offensive struggles on Saturday, Turner's captaincy is a testament to her growth, skill, and integral role on the team.