Tanya Henderson- Assistant Defensive Backs Coach

Tanya made history on February 15th, 2022 by becoming the first full-time female coach in Canadian Football League history. Ahead of the 2024 season, she added the title of assistant defensive backs coach following two seasons of working closely in all aspects of the defensive drills and game plans.

The native of Forestburg, Alberta is back in 2023 for her second season with the organization, working closely with the linebackers and playing an instrumental role in the defensive game plan.

Tanya joined the Lions following five years on the staff of Edmonton’s St. Francis Xavier High School. Her football journey began in 2013 as a player with the Western Women’s Canadian Football League’s (WWCFL) Edmonton Storm.

She then went on to represent both Team Alberta and Team Canada, helping the national women’s team win a Silver medal at the IFAF Women’s World Championship in 2017.

Tanya’s coaching resume also includes a guest appearance with the CJFL Edmonton Huskies. She also served as an assistant for the West Edmonton Raiders girls’ tackle football team.

In her spare time, Tanya enjoys hiking, her family farm and hanging out with her dogs, Reinhardt and Rupert.