Doctors from Interior Health, including two from Cranbrook, came home with silver medals following an international soccer competition in Australia this summer.

The World Medical Football Championships was held from July 20, 2024 to July 27, in Australia’s Sunshine Coast.

It’s an international football competition created in 1995, with teams comprised of players holding a University Degree in Human Medicine and working as a medical doctor in their country. This year’s tournament also saw the debut of women’s medical teams to the event, including representatives from Canada.

The Canadian Women’s Medical Football Team included 16 women physician soccer players from around the country. Four doctors from British Columbia took part in the event, with three of those doctors from within Interior Health, including Becky Falk from Vernon, and Denise Jaworsky and Elena Schroeder, both from Cranbrook.

“It was a real honour to be a part of a group of talented physicians who excel in both sport and medicine. I am inspired by all of my teammates and really excited to see how this program grows over the upcoming years,” said Dr. Denise Jaworsky, General Internal Medicine.

The Canadian team picked up a 5-1-1 record in the tournament and claimed a silver medal, after being edged out in the finals by the host Australian team.

Several players were also recognized for their performance in the tournament.

Dr. Elena Schroeder of Cranbrook (pictured) was honoured with the Golden Glove Award, recognizing her as the tournament’s best goalkeeper. Dr. Becky Falk of Vernon was also recognized by her teammates as the Player of the Tournament for her outstanding leadership and performance.

“It was a wonderful experience to see female physicians from all over Canada engage in something outside of medicine and connect through a sport we all love. Next year’s tournament is in Dublin, Ireland. We are hoping to recruit more players,” said Dr Schroeder, Family Medicine.

Team Canada also made a significant impact off the pitch for the Brisbane charity ‘Pushing Barriers.’ The team raised $7,200, supporting refugee young athletes in accessing community sport.

Lead image: Left: Dr. Denise Jaworsky and Dr. Elena Schroeder in Team Canada gear.  Interior Health photos

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