On Oct. 5, Christian Riel Solway- Wolf Leg, a youth from Siksika Nation, reached a major milestone in his athletic career after being formally offered a position with the University of Alberta Golden Bears football program.
“I’m feeling pretty excited!” said Christian.
Opportunities like this do not come around often, even for non-Indigenous athletes. “I feel blessed to continue playing at the U SPORT level. For many of the guys I grew up playing with, this will be the end of their football journey, so I’m grateful for the opportunity to keep pursuing mine.”
The exciting news arrives as Christian begins his final year of high school. Still playing football at the high school level, he is eager to make the most of his last season before taking the next step in his athletic journey at the university level.
Several universities across Canada expressed interest in Christian following his strong performances on the field. U of A staff contacted Christian’s coaches at Ernest Manning to learn more about Solway, as both a player and a person. “[They] helped provide insight into his character, work ethic, attitude, leadership and commitment both on and off the field,” said Nicole Wolf Leg, his mother. As those conversations took place, Christian toured the U of A facilities and decided it was the right fit for him.
Christian was born and raised in Calgary, Alberta, by his mom and the late Riel Solway, his dad. “He spent many summers and weekends on the Reserve with his paternal grandparents, Steve and Eleanor,” said Nicole. He additionally is close to his grandmother, Olivia Good Rider, his Mimi, Ruby Wolf Leg, and aunties Cheyenne, Alicia and Tia.
Unfortunately, tragedy hit Christian’s life at an early age, losing his father, Riel, leaving his mother to raise him alone. “My mom has been my biggest supporter,” he said.
Following the loss of an important figure in his life, football became more to Christian’s life, instilling values such as discipline, resilience, accountability and leadership. Along the way, coaches played a significant role in his development, from his Coach Greg Wilson emphasizing the importance of being present and punctual to Coach Ryan Brouwers encouraging him to keep getting up.
After suffering a significant injury at the start of his high school career, Christian credited Wesley Chau and Coach Alex Ogbongbemiga of SMART Performance for playing a key role in his recovery, helping him rebuild both physically and mentally.
For his high school career, Christian thanked Head Coach Garth Melrose at Ernest Manning High School for his dedication and time he spends with his team, being very influential to Christian. He is also supported by the school principal, Mike Wilson, who is also a positional coach; he has helped Christian maintain his academics while he plays football.
“Even during my Grade 10 season, when I was unable to play because of my injury, I was still welcomed and remained part of the team, attending all practices and games,’ said Christian.
“As a mother, I cannot put into words how much it means to have these men in Christian’s life,’ said Nicole.
Christian will begin taking open studies at the University of Alberta in Fall 2027, with plans to transition to Indigenous Studies. “I’m keeping my options open and trusting that the right path will unfold for me,” said Christian.
Playing at the university level is not easy, but Christian comes from a slew of accomplishments in his journey, being the recipient of multiple awards, named MVP for his team, and earning a coaching certificate. In 2023, he traveled to Las Vegas to play in a tournament. “Out of approximately 500 kids, 80 were invited to try out, and 30 made the team,” he said. Last year, his high school team, the Ernest Manning Griffins, won both city and provincial tournaments. Over the summer, he took home gold with Indigenous Team Alberta in Regina.
“I want to thank my family, coaches, teammates, and everyone who has supported me throughout this journey. Football has given me so much; it has given me a community, lifelong lessons, and people I know I can always count on. To Siksika and anyone reading my story, I hope you remember that life will bring challenges, but those challenges don’t have to define you. Keep showing up, keep working hard, and surround yourself with people who believe in you and push you to be better. No matter what obstacles you face, never give up on yourself or your dreams. Whatever you set your mind to, get ’er done!”
