University football returns with Kal Bowl 2023

Greater Vernon will be home to a university football game for the second straight year.

The Kal Tire Kalamalka Bowl is set to be held again this summer after a successful first year.

The Kalamalka Bowl Society says over 2,000 people turned out to Greater Vernon Athletic Park to watch the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds defeat the University of Calgary Dinos in an exhibition game last August.

READ MORE: Thunderbirds uncaged in inaugural and successful Kal Bowl

It was the first university football game held in the North Okanagan, and building off that success, the UBC Thunderbirds will be back to defend their title, this time taking on the University of Alberta Golden Bears.

“UBC is excited to return to Vernon in 2023 and again compete in the Kalamalka Bowl,” UBC Head Coach Blake Nill stated.

“This showcase of university athletics will provide growth in our sport, and exemplify the relevance that sport, specifically football can have.”

“The University of Alberta football program is very excited about to the opportunity to participate in the 2023 KAL Bowl,” UA Head Coach Chris Morris added.

“The game gives us the opportunity to compete against one of the top teams in the nation and give the Vernon community a first-hand look at Canada West Football. Canada West is the most competitive conference in the nation, and this is a great opportunity for the student athletes on both teams to showcase their hard work, commitment, and passion for the sport.”

The Thunderbirds and Golden Bears will meet on the gridiron August 23 at 7 p.m.

Tickets will go on sale June 1 at the Kal Bowl website.

The Kalamalka Bowl Society has received a three year commitment from Vernon-based Kal Tire as the title sponsor.

“The inaugural Kal Tire Kalamalka Bowl was a huge success and our team was inspired by the response from the community,” Ryan Paulson, Kal Tire spokesperson, said. “The feedback we received from many who were involved or attended the game helped us realize that this is exactly the type of annual event we need here in Vernon.”

Sean Smith, president of the Kalamalka Bowl Society, said they are thrilled to continue their partnership with Kal Tire for what has become a major event on the Vernon community calendar.

Okanagan Spring Brewery has signed on to return as the beer garden sponsor.