Top U SPORTS football prospects participate in East-West Bowl

The event featured the top 107 Canadian university football players eligible for the 2027 CFL Draft as they look to showcase their skills.

Some of the country’s top university football players took to the field in Waterloo this weekend for the 2026 East-West Bowl.

The East-West Bowl was held on Saturday at Warrior Field at the University of Waterloo.

The annual showcase featured 107 of the top Canadian university football players eligible for the 2027 CFL (Canadian Football League) Draft. Players will have the opportunity to perform in front of coaches, general managers and scouts.

“This is the baseline, whether it be the combine they participated in, how they practice during the week and then how they perform during the game,” said the Waterloo Warriors’ head coach Chris Bertoia. “Not all of these guys are going to make the CFL that played in this game, but all of them are going to remember this experience and then in turn, get a great degree and move on to bigger and better things.”

A minimum of three third and fourth-year players from each of the country’s 27 U SPORTS football programs are expected to participate.

“It’s so great honestly. The environment is great, you get to learn so much the entire week and you get to pick up on new things or brush up on things that maybe you weren’t so crisp on,” said defensive lineman Dominique Walker. “The energy is great, everyone loves each other and we just want to compete out here really.”

Kickoff was scheduled for 12:30 p.m. Team West won 28-27.

“Getting to play with guys from other teams...it’s such a unique experience, and you’re able to build such an awesome chemistry and get on the field today and get the win,” said Guelph Gryphon quarterback Tristan Aboud. “I think it’s step by step. I’m a big live in the moment kind of guy...just be fully in the moment, enjoy it.”