In a thrilling home showdown, the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks defeated the Western University Mustangs in the Ontario University Sports Football Championship, capturing the Yates Cup and marking a significant victory in Ontario university football. Ontario.

With a packed University Stadium and an electric atmosphere energizing the players, the Golden Hawks put together an impressive performance, defeating the mighty Mustangs and winning their first Yates Cup title since 2016.

“I feel so excited. The Golden Hawks are in a good position,” said a Laurier student. “Our quarterback Taylor, I mean, he’s just an absolute dog. (He’s a) dual-threat quarterback, just a huge man (who) runs up and down the field.

Saturday’s home-and-home game ended with the Golden Hawks leading 51-31, concluding the Mustangs’ 2024 season.

This victory is particularly important for Laurier, who hosted the Yates Cup final in front of a packed house. Supporters in purple, white and gold erupted at the final whistle, celebrating the hard-fought victory over a formidable opponent.

“I love seeing our schools show up, support, get in the game today, people cheering in the streets,” said one Golden Hawks fan.

The Golden Hawks will now head east to face either St. Mary’s University or Bishop’s University in the Uteck Bowl on November 16.

With momentum on their side, Laurier fans are hoping this Yates Cup win is just the start of an unforgettable post-season run.

“Let us go straight to glory; It’s a great day to be a Golden Hawk,” said one Laurier student.

Laurier has won eight Yates Cups in the history of his program. Western has won 35, including last year.