July 27, 2024 – Canton, Ohio –
In an electrifying spectacle of athleticism and strategy, the St. Louis Slam triumphed over the Boston Renegades with a nail-biting 30-27 victory in the 2024 Women’s Football Alliance (WFA) Pro Division National Championship. This game, staged in the historic football city of Canton, Ohio at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, not only underscored the competitive spirit of women’s football but also marked a pivotal moment with the announcement of a groundbreaking partnership between the WFA and the NFL Alumni Association.
A Partnership to Elevate Women’s Football
The championship weekend kicked off with an exciting announcement: the WFA has partnered with the NFL Alumni Association to enhance community engagement, education, and career opportunities for women in football. This partnership will recognize retired WFA players as Pro Football Legends, offering them benefits and career support post-football. The NFL Alumni Academy will also provide top-level training for WFA players and coaches, with selected participants gaining hands-on experience through a one-week internship alongside NFL professionals. This collaboration aims to propel women’s football to new heights, fostering growth and opportunity for athletes and coaches alike.
First Half: Setting the Stage
The Renegades, reigning champions for five consecutive years, wasted no time in asserting their dominance. Quarterback Megan McFadden orchestrated a masterful opening drive, culminating in a touchdown pass to Ruth Matta, putting the Renegades ahead 7-0 early in the first quarter.
The St. Louis Slam, initially struggling to find their rhythm, suffered a setback when Gaal’s pass was intercepted by the Renegades’ defense. Ruth Matta capitalized on the turnover with her second touchdown, extending the lead to 14-0.
However, the Slam’s resilience began to show. Jada Humphrey scored their first touchdown, and after a successful extra point, the score stood at 14-7. The Slam’s defense then made a crucial play, intercepting a pass and halting the Renegades’ momentum. By the end of the second quarter, Gaal connected with Kerri McMahan to close the gap, sending the teams into halftime with the Slam trailing by just seven points at 20-13.
Second Half: A Battle of Wills
The second half opened with high tension and high stakes. The Slam recovered a fumble early in the third quarter, only for the Renegades’ Darcy Leslie to intercept a Gaal pass moments later. Controversy struck when a loose ball from McFadden was ruled an incomplete forward pass. The Renegades, unable to capitalize, punted the ball away.
With 1:37 left in the third quarter, Ruth Matta tied the game at 20-20 with a brilliant touchdown run. A blocked extra point attempt added to the drama, as the Slam defense held strong.
Fourth Quarter: A Climax of Heroes and Heart
The final quarter was a showcase of grit and determination. The Slam extended their drive from the third quarter, aided by a penalty on the Renegades. A successful 25-yard field goal put the Slam ahead 23-20.
The game’s momentum shifted dramatically when Gaal found Sydney Bloch for a crucial touchdown, pushing the score to 30-20. Keyonna Smith’s interception in the red zone later on seemed to seal the game for the Slam. However, in a stunning twist, Kylee O’Connor Harrel of the Renegades stripped the ball and returned it for a touchdown, narrowing the Slam’s lead to 30-27.
On the ensuing kickoff, a fumble by Bloch pinned the Slam at their own 9-yard line. The Renegades’ defense forced a punt, and Harrel’s return to the Slam’s 28-yard line set the stage for a dramatic finish.
Final Moments: The Slam’s Historic Victory
With 3:31 left on the clock, the Renegades faced a crucial fourth down. Despite a completed pass by McFadden, it was ruled short of the first down marker, resulting in a turnover on downs.
The Slam’s Gaal took control, kneeling to run down the clock. A timeout by Renegades’ head coach John Johnson led to a final run attempt, but the Slam ended up with a 3rd and 12. An offsides call on the Renegades made it 3rd and 7. Time eventually expired, securing a 30-27 victory for the St. Louis Slam.
MVP Honors and Historical Context
Post-game, Ruth Matta was named MVP for the Renegades, while Kerri McMahan received MVP honors for the Slam, both recognized for their pivotal roles in this epic contest.
The Boston Renegades, having dominated the WFA Pro Division with five straight championships, saw their streak end in a thrilling and hard-fought battle. The St. Louis Slam, champions last in 2009, celebrated a historic victory that signaled a new era in women’s football.
Looking Forward
The St. Louis Slam’s triumph marks a turning point in WFA history, emphasizing the growing competitiveness and talent within women’s football. The new partnership with the NFL Alumni Association promises to further elevate the sport, providing enhanced opportunities and recognition for these exceptional athletes. This championship game will be remembered not only for its dramatic conclusion but also for setting the stage for a brighter, more inclusive future in football.
This was not just a game; it was a testament to the power of perseverance, the thrill of competition, and the bright future of women’s football. The St. Louis Slam and the Boston Renegades have shown us all what it means to leave everything on the field.
