Vancouver Rise return home to cheering fans after historic NSL championship win

Vancouver Rise FC touched down at Vancouver International Airport on Sunday afternoon to a chorus of singing and chanting — and more than a few caws — as supporters gathered to welcome home the newly minted champions of the inaugural Northern Super League (NSL) title.

The players arrived just a day after staging a late comeback against top-ranked AFC Toronto in the league’s first championship final, a match that featured lightning delays, big momentum swings and no shortage of drama on the pitch.

Dozens of fans, young and old, gathered at the arrivals area waving scarves and signs as the players emerged.

Among them was Erika Wootten, who said meeting the players after following the team all season was special.

“It’s really exciting to have access to the players and get to see them on TV and then come to welcome them and thank them for all their hard work,” she said.

Wootten is part of the Crow Collective, a passionate supporters group for Vancouver Rise. The name is inspired by the nightly crow migration to Burnaby, B.C., including over Swangard Stadium, the home field for the team.

On Sunday, Wootten didn’t shy away from letting out a few celebratory caws of her own. She said it felt fitting, given the team’s close calls this season and their reputation for grit and resilience.

“The Vancouver style of play is all about grit and resilience and coming back and they've just shown that all season long,” she said. 

Vancouver Rise celebrates 1st ever NSL title

Wootten admitted the season wasn’t always easy to watch, especially the final.

The Rise, who finished third in the regular season standings, were considered underdogs against a Toronto squad that scored more goals than any other team this year.

Toronto looked dominant