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Regan Bartel
By Vernon Matters Staff
Unfinished business

Okanagan Sun begin title chase

Jul 16, 2026 | 5:00 PM

The Okanagan Sun kick off the 2026 BCFC season this Saturday with a trip to Vancouver Island to take on the Nanaimo Raiders.

The Sun are the two-time defending BCFC champions, and head coach Travis Miller says a big reason for that success is the experience returning to the lineup.

“We are returning a lot of veteran guys. It is an elite group. Some of them have been playing together for three to four years, which is nice.”

Despite winning back-to-back league titles, the Sun have come up short in consecutive appearances at the Canadian Bowl. That gives fifth-year linebacker Grayson Statham extra motivation heading into his final season with the club.

“Since my first year, our motto has been ‘all gas, no brakes,'” the 22-year-old said. “To win it would mean everything, especially after the last two years. All I want is to bring it home and do it for the town.”

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There is even more on the line this season, with the 2026 BCFC champion earning the right to host the Canadian Bowl, the national junior football championship, in November.

“When you lose back-to-back national titles, it leaves a sour taste in your mouth,” Miller said.

by Vernon Matters Staff
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