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Men’s Football

OUA Football Team Previews

25 Aug 2018, 01:00 PM 25 August 2018, 01:00 PM

U SPORTS Staff

Guelph Gryphons

2017 regular season record: 5-3
2017 regular season standings: 5^th in OUA
2017 playoff record: 1-1
2017 playoff finish: Won 30-8 over Ottawa in OUA quarterfinal, lost 66-12 to Western in OUA Semis

General Write-Up:

With an excellent recruiting class complimenting a strong core of returning players, the Guelph Gryphons enter the 2018 U SPORTS football season as one of the top contenders in the OUA. After spending the previous seven seasons as the team’s offensive coordinator and director of recruiting, Todd Galloway takes over head coaching duties of a Gryphon team that saw their 2017 campaign come to an end following an OUA semifinal loss to the eventual Vanier Cup champions, the Western Mustangs. The Gryphons head into the 2018 season with dynamic players on offence, defence and special teams, and will be tested early with four of the team’s first six games coming on the road.

Fourth-year quarterback Theo Landers will lead the Gryphon offence in what will be his first full year as the team’s starting QB. When it comes to the Gryphon rushing attack and receiving core, the name of the game is depth, with the Gryphons having a deep stable of ball carriers behind Landers, while four of the team’s starting five receivers from 2017 return in 2018.

Defensively, the Gryphons boast a formidable front seven, with defensive end Alain Cimankinda establishing himself as one of the top pass rushers in the OUA in 2017. Fifth-year senior Luke Korol, one of the leading tacklers in the country each of the past two seasons, headlines a solid linebacking core, while Dotun Aketepe, Elijah Walker and Akeem Knowles round out an athletic secondary.

On special teams, the Gryphons received a huge boost with the return of 2018 CFL Draft pick and All-Canadian kicker Gabe Ferraro. Ferraro, who set a national record in 2017 with 33 made field goals, is back for his fifth and final season with the Gryphons in 2018.

Quote from head coach: (Todd Galloway)

“Our players have worked extremely hard this off season and we’re excited about the balance we have with our returning vets and our younger players. We’ve seen some outstanding leadership from our guys throughout the offseason and it has been fun to watch them push each other in practice. We’re looking forward to testing ourselves week-in, week-out against a deep, talented field of OUA teams.”

Head Coach: (Todd Galloway)

Number of seasons as head coach with team (including 2018): 1^st
Number of seasons as head coach in U SPORTS (including 2018): 1^st
Career regular season record with team: N/A
Career regular season record in U SPORTS: N/A
Career overall record with team (reg. season & playoffs only): N/A
Career overall record in U SPORTS (reg. season & playoffs only): N/A

OFFENCE

Number of returning starters: 6

Key returning players:

Fourth-year QB Theo Landers is set to take over for his first full-season as the team’s starting quarterback following the graduation of James Roberts. In 2017, Landers saw significant playing time, taking over the starting role midway through the season. In just his second start, Landers helped lead the Gryphons to a 24-14 road win over the defending Yates Cup champions and then-No. 5 ranked Laurier Golden Hawks. The native of Maple Ridge, B.C. is one of the most athletic quarterbacks in the country, finishing the 2017 season second on the team with 387 yards rushing. Landers also finished ranked 10^th in the country in completion percentage, completing just over 62 per cent of his passes on the season.

Fresh off an impressive showing at the 2018 East-West Bowl, standout offensive lineman Eric Starczala returns for his fifth and final season to anchor the Gryphons up front. The 6-5, 318-pound Cambridge, Ont., native was named a Second Team OUA All-Star in 2017 and will be looked upon to lead the way for the Gryphons on the offensive line in 2018 following the departure of All-Canadian Andrew Pickett to the CFL.

In the receiving core, Saskatchewan native Kade Belyk returns for his fourth season at U of G. The 6-0, 180-pound Regina native is expected to feature as a Gryphon starter for a third consecutive season and should see an increase in targets following the departure of All-Canadian receiver Jacob Scarfone.

Key recruits or transfers:

Jean-Paul Cimankinda (RB, St. Matthews High School, Orleans, Ont.)
Michael O’Shea (REC – St. Paul’s – Winnipeg – son of Gryphon & CFL Hall of Famer, Mike O’Shea)
Kwame Osei (RB – John Abbott College, CEGEP)

Key losses:

James Roberts (three-year starting quarterback)
Johnny Augustine (2^nd on Gryphons’ list of all-time leading rushers)
Jacob Scarfone (two-time All-Canadian receiver)
Andrew Pickett (two-time All-Canadian offensive lineman)

DEFENCE

Number of returning starters: 7

Key returning players:

LB Luke Korol
DE Alain Cimankinda
DB Dotun Aketepe
DT Greg Corfield

Fifth-year linebacker Luke Korol returns for his senior season with the Gryphons and has established himself as one of the top linebackers in the country following back-to-back standout seasons. For each of the past two seasons, Korol has ranked third in the country in tackles (with 64.0 in 2016 and 66.5 tackles in 2017).

Defensive end Alain Cimankinda burst onto the scene in 2017 with a 3.5 sack performance in his very first game at the university level. Lining up beside the talented Cimankinda is fifth year vet Greg Corfield who anchors the interior of the Gryphon defensive line.

In the secondary, the Gryphons lose Royce Metchie and Nick Parisotto to the CFL, but feature a trio of talented returning players in Dotun Aketepe, Akeem Knowles and Elijah Walker, all of whom have starting experience heading into 2018.

Key recruits or transfers:

DE Carter Wilson (transfer from University of North Dakota)
DT Jeremy Kapelanski (Champlain-Lennoxville, CEGEP)
DB Brendan Murphy (Champlain-Lennoxville, CEGEP)

Key losses:

FS Royce Metchie
DB Nick Parisotto
LB Derek Drouillard
DB Orion Edwards

SPECIAL TEAMS

Key returning players:

K/P Gabe Ferraro
LS Job Reinhart
RET Ryan Isenor

Key recruits or transfers: N/A

Key losses:

Nick Parisotto
Royce Metchie

Carleton Ravens

2017 regular season record: 3-5
2017 regular season standings: 8^th in OUA
2017 playoff record: 0-0
2017 playoff finish: Did not make playoffs

CAR_preview.jpg (3.77 MB)
General Write-Up:

The Ravens will be entering their sixth season of play following their 15-year hiatus from U SPORTS football. With the graduation of the first class of ravens, the program is settling into a more normal routine. Change in the players, and some changes in the coaching staff, has brought a new beginning to the second wave of Ravens.

Quote from head coach: Steve Sumarah

“This off-season was filled with many changes. We have hired a new Defensive Coordinator in Paul-Eddy St. Villien, a new defensive back coach in Devin Murphy and promoted David Caron to Special Teams Coordinator. We return our entire offensive staff led by JP Asselin and added Chris Hopkins as our running backs coach and recruiting Coordinator. Once again we had representation at this year’s CFL combine and draft as three players were taken by CFL teams. Justin Howell was drafted by the Ottawa REDBLACKS and started a game this past week. The turnover we have had will create holes in our roster for, but also opportunities for others to step-up. We are very excited about the upcoming season as we believe we can stay among the elite teams in the very tough OUA. With every team this time of the year, there is hope and anticipation of how the season will go. We believe that we have taken great strides over the past couple of years but we will be judged by our performance on the field. Our players and coaches are excited for the challenge.”

Head Coach: Steve Sumarah

Number of seasons as head coach with team (including 2012): Entering 6^th season
Number of seasons as head coach in U SPORTS (including 2012): Entering 12^th season
Career regular season record with team: 18-22
Career regular season record in U SPORTS: 53-34
Career overall record with team (reg. season & playoffs only): 18-22
Career overall record in U SPORTS (reg. season & playoffs only): 61-34

OFFENCE

Number of returning starters: 6

Key returning players:

REC Phil Iloki (Ottawa, Ont.)
QB Mike Arruda (Gatineau, Que.)
RB Nathan Carter (Ottawa, Ont)

Key recruits or transfers:

RB Jalen Jana (Simon Fraser; Surrey, B.C.)
REC Khalik Johnson (Langley Rams; Surrey B.C.
RB Josh Fergusson (Niagara Spears; Niagara Falls, Ont.)

Key losses:

OL Zach Annen (Montreal Alouettes)
OL Tyler Young
FB Stefano Napolitano FB

DEFENCE

Number of returning starters: 10

Key returning players:

DE Kene Oyneka (Brampton, Ont.)
DL Fred Robitaille (Montreal, Que.
DB Jay Dearborn (Kingston, Ont.)

Key recruits or transfers:

DB Cedric Lavigne (Gatineau, Que.)
DL Dylan Leggett Montreal, Que.
LB Makayeo Hall (Ottawa, Ont.)

Key losses:

DB Justin Howell
LB Leon Cenerini

SPECIAL TEAMS

Key returning players:

P/K Michael Domagalo

Key recruits or transfers:

PK Vincent Plouffe (Gatineau, Que.)

Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks

2017 regular season record: 6-2
2017 regular season standings: 2^nd in OUA
2017 playoff record: 1-1
2017 playoff finish: Lost 75-32 to Western in Yates Cup

LAU_Preview_-_Jeff_Hunter.jpg (624 KB) — (Credit: Jeff Hunter)

General Write-Up:

The Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks head into the 2018 campaign having firmly established themselves as a team to beat across Canada. The Hawks are coming off back-to-back Yates Cup final appearances, including their thrilling victory in 2016, while sitting in the U SPORTS Top 10 rankings every week for the past two seasons. Despite a lopsided loss to the eventual Vanier Cup Champion Western Mustangs in last year’s Yates Cup, Laurier is built once again to make another deep postseason run as they aim for to bring the Vanier Cup back to Waterloo, Ont.

Despite the loss of some key starters from a season ago, the Hawks offence is once again poised to be a challenge for opposing defences with playmakers across the board, including last year’s Hec Crighton Trophy finalist Kurleigh Gittens Jr. Under center, Laurier will have a new starter as the departure of Michael Knevel opens up the door for Tristan Arndt who showed well in his two starts last season, including leading the Hawks over McMaster in the conference semifinals.

The Hawks’ defence also suffered the loss of key pieces as three starters were drafted to the CFL. However, there is no lack of talent ready at all positions read to fill the holes for defensive coordinator Ron Van Moerkerke. Laurier’s defensive line is once again shaping up as one of the best in the country, led by Robbie Smith and Trevaughan James while the secondary will be anchored by veterans Scott Hutter and Ron Kinga. One name to watch for is Malcolm Thompson as the dynamic defensive back is set to return after missing all of 2017 due to injury.

Quote from head coach: Michael Faulds

On the mood heading into camp:

“We are thrilled with where we are at coming out of training camp. This is our staff’s sixth training camp and we are further along and have better depth than ever before.”

On this year’s recruiting class:

“You are always excited about your recruiting class, but until you see them on the field the first few days in training camp you are never quite sure how good it was. I can honestly say this class will win a lot of football games and many first years are good enough to play in year one. Many future league all-stars and All-Canadians are in this class.”

On goals for the season:

“Our goals remain the same and they are definitely realistic with the talent we have in place. We have an elite football program that will compete for a Yates and Vanier Cup this year.”

Head Coach: Michael Faulds

Number of seasons as head coach with team (including 2018): 6
Number of seasons as head coach in U SPORTS (including 2018): 6
Career regular season record with team: 22-18
Career regular season record in U SPORTS: 22-18
Career overall record with team (reg. season & playoffs only): 26-22
Career overall record in U SPORTS (reg. season & playoffs only): 26-22

OFFENCE

Number of returning starters: 7

Key returning players:

REC Kurleigh Gittens Jr. will be suiting up for his fourth year with the Golden Hawks. The reigning OUA MVP and Hec Crighton Trophy finalist is coming off a campaign in which he was a two-time U SPORTS All-Canadian as a receiver and returner after setting the U SPORTS record for receptions in a season (75) and leading the nation in all-purpose yards (1665). He needs 125 yards to become the fourth Golden Hawk to reach 2000 receiving yards in a career.
REC Brentyn Hall is heading into his third year of eligibility with the purple and gold. An OUA Second Team All-Star last year, Hall has posted back-to-back 500-plus yard seasons with Laurier and tied for fourth in the conference in receiving touchdowns last year.
RB Levondre Gordon enters his four year with Laurier. The Hawks primary back last season and a 2018 East West Bowl participant, Gordon finished in the Top 5 in the conference in yards, rushing touchdowns and rushing attempts last season. He needs 473 yards to eclipse 2000 for his career.
QB Tristan Arndt heads into his second year of eligibility with Laurier. Arndt made two starts for Laurier in 2017, including leading Laurier to a victory in the OUA Semifinals against McMaster, as he filled in for injured started Michael Knevel.
OL Drew Mairleitner enters his fourth campaign with Laurier. A staple on the offensive line, Mairleitner has appeared in all but one game for the Hawks in his career and will be looked upon for veteran leadership on a group that lost two starters from 2017.

Key recruits or transfers:

REC Esson Hamilton
QB Connor Irwin-Lewis

Key losses:

REC Carson Ouellette
OL Chris Reddy
REC Daniel Bennett
FB Stu Smith

DEFENCE

Number of returning starters: 5

Key returning players:

DL Robbie Smith returns for his fourth season with Laurier. An OUA Second Team All-Star last season, Smith led the OUA in both sacks (10.5) and tackles for a loss (12.5) while setting the Laurier record for sacks in a game (4.5) and sacks in a season. Needs five sacks to break Kwaku Boateng’s school record of 20.5 in a career.
DL Trevaughan James enters his fourth campaign with the Hawks. A 2017 OUA First Team All-Star, James participated in the 2018 East West Bowl after posting 26.5 tackles and 2.5 sacks as one of Laurier’s starting defensive tackles.
DB Scott Hutter heads into his fourth year with the purple and gold. The Hawks’ starting safety, Hutter has led the team in interceptions in two of his previous three seasons and posted career highs for solo tackles (26) and total tackles (30.5) last season.
DB Ron Kinga wraps up his Laurier career in 2018 as he returns for his fifth season. A consistent presence on the corner, Kinga set career highs for solo and total tackles a year ago.
DB Malcolm Thompson is back for the Golden Hawks after missing 2017 due to injury. Entering his third year of eligibility, Thompson is a former U SPORTS First Team All-Canadian who led the OUA in interceptions, interception return yards and interceptions returned for a touchdown in 2016.
DB Shomari Hutchinson heads into his third season with Laurier and was a breakout star for the Hawks last season. Appearing in seven games, Hutchinson matched the school record for tackles in a game (14.5) against the York Lions, earning himself U SPORTS Defensive Player of the Week accolades.

Key recruits or transfers:

DL Tyler Eckert
DB Nico McCarthy
DL Brandon Omonowa

Key losses:

DB Godfrey Onyeka
DB Isaiah Guzylak-Messam
DL Rashari Henry
LB Brandon Calver

SPECIAL TEAMS

Key returning players:

K/P Nathan Mesher enters his fourth season of eligibility for the purple and gold. Laurier’s record holder for longest field goal (52 yards), Mesher enters 2018 with 202 career points and needs 69 to pass Chris Mamo for first place in career scoring with the Golden Hawks.
RET Kurleigh Gittens Jr. returns for his fourth season with the Golden Hawks. A U SPORTS Second Team All-Canadian as a returner last season, Gittens Jr. posted identical punt and kickoff return yardage (355), including his second career punt return touchdown. Needs 46 kickoff return yards to become the first Laurier player with 1000 in a career.
LS Jon Timmons will be suiting up for his fifth and final season with Laurier in 2018. A staple in Laurier’s lineup since joining the Hawks from St. Marcellinus SS, Timmons has started 28 games over four seasons.
RET Kavantye Bailey enters his second season with the Golden Hawks. The speedy back will feature on special teams for the first time this season after rushing for 105 yards as Laurier’s third string running back in 2017.

Key recruits or transfers:

RET Esson Hamilton

Key losses:

RET Carson Ouellette

McMaster Marauders

2017 regular season record: 6-2
2017 regular season standings: 3rd in OUA
2017 playoff record: 1-1
2017 playoff finish: Lost 16-9 to Wilfrid Laurier in OUA semifinal

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General Write-Up:

The Marauders began a massive roster overhaul in 2017 that saw the team introduce eight new starters on offence, and resulted in four spots for McMaster players on the OUA All-Rookie Team, including Jackson White at quarterback, receiver Tommy Nield, offensive lineman Wyatt Edmonds and running back Justice Allin. Buoyed by their defence, and particularly the OUA First Team All-Star pair of linemen Mark Mackie and Hassan Barry, McMaster was second in the conference in points per game (14.4) and yards per game (185.6) allowed, and led the OUA with 13 interceptions. A 6-2 regular season record placed the Marauders third in the conference at season’s end, after which they hosted and defeated the Queen’s Gaels 12-9 in an OUA quarterfinal at Ron Joyce Stadium. McMaster’s 2017 campaign ended on the road in Waterloo a week later, as they were beaten 19-6 by the defending Yates Cup champions, the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks.

In 2018, it is the McMaster defence that undergoes a massive overhaul, with just three returning starters. Linebacker Eric Blake, who represented the Marauders at the East-West Bowl in May, will be a veteran leader of that group, with the majority of its experience to be found in the backfield through the likes of upper-year defensive backs Will Hudson, Mitch Garland, Nolan Putt, Noah Hallett and Ben Cross. Offensively, second-year quarterbacks White and Team Canada gold medalist Andreas Dueck will battle through training camp for the starting role, with the winner of the positional battle leaning heavily on senior running back Jordan Lyons to stabilize the McMaster attack on the ground. Lyons racked up 700 yards in 2017, before exploding for 319 in his team’s quarterfinal win over Queen’s.

Quote from head coach: Greg Knox

"I'm excited to get our student-athletes on the field after a rewarding offseason that saw us get bigger, faster, and more mature as a group. I believe that we've assembled an outstanding group of both players and staff that will deliver the quality of football that Marauders fans have come to expect."

Head Coach: Greg Knox

Number of seasons as head coach with team (including 2018): 3
Number of seasons as head coach in U SPORTS (including 2018): 3
Career regular season record with team: 12-4
Career regular season record in U SPORTS: 12-4
Career overall record with team (reg. season & playoffs only): 14-6
Career overall record in U SPORTS (reg. season & playoffs only): 14-6

OFFENCE

Number of returning starters: 8

Key returning players:

RB Jordan Lyons
WR Tyson Middlemost
SB Blake Reason
OL Wyatt Croucher

Key recruits or transfers:

REC Levi Paul
REC Xander Tachinski
QB Liam Putt

Key losses:

SB Mitch O’Connor
SB Dan Petermann
OL Cody Speller
OL Kyle Maertens

DEFENCE

Number of returning starters: 3

Key returning players:

LB Eric Blake
DB Will Hudson
DB Noah Hallett
DL Enoch Penney-Laryea

Key recruits or transfers:

LB Eryk Bujalski
LB Jesse Zajaros
DL Cole Klughart
DL Mitch Lyons

Key losses:

DL Mark Mackie
DL Hassan Barry
LB Eric Mezzalira
LB Jake Heathcote

SPECIAL TEAMS

Key returning players:

K/P Adam Preocanin
RET Mitch Garland
LB Andrew Pacheco
LB Nate Edwards

Key losses:

REC Mitch O’Connor
LB Eric Mezzalira
LB Alec Robertson

Ottawa Gee-Gees

2017 regular season record: 5-3
2017 regular season standings: 4^th in OUA
2017 playoff record: 0-1
2017 playoff finish: Lost 30-8 to Guelph in quarter-finals

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General Write-Up:

The 2017 season was another solid one for the Gee-Gees. Kicking off the season with a road win against Guelph, the team had strong momentum through the first weeks of the season. Wins against Queen’s and York had the Gee-Gees as high as No. 8 in the U SPORTS Top 10. The team picked up two more wins over Windsor and Waterloo at home, but found themselves on the losing end at McMaster and Western, as well as a Panda Game double-overtime thriller.

Last season, the team’s strength was their defence, with First Team All-Canadian Jamie Harry, and Second Team All Canadian Jackson Bennett leading a lethal defensive backfield. With cornerbacks Harry and Cody Cranston attending the East-West Bowl along with receiver Kalem Beaver, the 2018 team looks to have plenty of star power.

With 17 returning starters, and plenty of depth across the board, the Gee-Gees are well prepared to take another step in the OUA. Though they will be tested early with three high-level opponents to start the season in Laurier, McMaster, and Guelph, the team can prove their place among the nation’s elite early.

Quote from head coach: Jamie Barresi

“Everything is looking very positive. I’m happy with our depth, we have a great group of returning guys that will help us a lot this year. There’s also been a lot of new kids who have come in and have been very impressive.”

Head Coach: Jamie Barresi

Number of seasons as head coach with team (including 2018): 6
Number of seasons as head coach in U SPORTS (including 2018): 6
Career regular season record with team: 24-16
Career regular season record in U SPORTS: 24-16
Career overall record with team (reg. season & playoffs only): 25-20
Career overall record in U SPORTS (reg. season & playoffs only): 25-20

OFFENCE

Number of returning starters: 10

Key returning players:

RB/SB Bryce Vieira - Signed as an undrafted free agent by the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Vieira is a perennial all-purpose threat. In a final year before seeking another chance in the CFL, Vieira is once again a key weapon in Jamie Barresi’s offence. In four years, Vieira has racked up 3,894 all-purpose yards (125.6 per game) and will be a key target in a pass-heavy offence.
OL Tanner Bishop – Fresh from an OUA All-Rookie team season, Bishop will once again anchor the Gee-Gees offensive line. The athletic guard from Vernon, BC looks to continue developing as a top prospect in his second year with the Gee-Gees.
QB Alex Lavric – In an OUA All-Rookie team season, Lavric threw for 1,409 yards and eight touchdowns in seven games played. The Mississauga, Ont. native continues to learn the Gee-Gees offence and will remain competitive in a talented quarterback room that features recruits Sawyer Buettner and Ben Maracle, along with returnee Joshua Britton-Bailey.
RECs Kalem Beaver and Carter Matheson - The team’s go-to receivers last season will look to continue to make a rise as one of the most athletic and reliable receiving cores in the OUA. Beaver, a representative at the 2018 U SPORTS East-West Bowl, will continue to be a weapon, translating his 4.38 second 40-yard-dash time into 107.5 all-purpose yards per game last season. Matheson, at 6-3, 210 lbs., increased his receiving yardage from 86 yards in 2016 to 489 and two touchdowns in 2017. The fourth-year from Kingston, Ont. will look to continue his upward trajectory this season.

Key recruits or transfers:

OL Nick Sine - From Canada Prep Academy (Welland, Ont.), and formerly Thousand Islands S.S. (Brockville, Ont.). At 6-2, 270 lbs. Sine has been playing at a high level in high school and was able to experience play on both sides of the border. Attended Nike’s The Opening, the biggest college football recruiting showcase in North America last year in New Jersey.
QB Sawyer Buettner – Played three seasons with the Regina Thunder of the CJFL. Buettner led the nation in passing yards last season (2,198), threw for 16 touchdowns at a 67.4 per cent completion percentage. The former product of A.E. Peacock Collegiate (Moose Jaw, Sask.) played for Team Saskatchewan and represented Team Canada at the International Bowl in 2015.
OL Zack Pelehos – Pelehos (6-6, 305 lbs.) was a can’t miss recruit for Gee-Gees offensive line coach Carl Tolmie. The product of Gananoque S.S. (Gananoque, Ont.) shows great athleticism with his size and will be a contributing member of the team to start the year.
RB Jordan Burgher - A transfer from Chabot College, a Junior College in Hayward, Calif., will add depth to a strong stable of running backs for the Gee-Gees. The Toronto, Ont. native is an impressive 6-0, 225 lbs. power back that can add a different gear to the Ottawa backfield.

Key losses: Nicolas Dagher (REC), Tyler McLaren (REC)

DEFENCE

Number of returning starters: 7

Key returning players:

CB Jamie Harry - The Lachine, Que. native was named a U SPORTS First Team All-Canadian and a First Team OUA All-Star. Harry led the OUA with five interceptions (2nd overall U SPORTS). Harry was second on the team with 42 tackles, and also recorded five pass breakups, 2.5 tackles for loss, one sack, one forced fumble, and returned one of his interceptions for a 60-yard touchdown. Harry was one of three Gee-Gees at the 2018 U SPORTS Valero East-West Bowl.
CB Cody Cranston - Entering his fourth-year with the Gee-Gees, was third in the OUA with three interceptions, matching his mark from 2016. The Winnipeg native tallied 23 tackles on the season, returned one of his interceptions for a touchdown and was another representative at the East-West Bowl.
S Thomas Carrier – Fifth on the team in tackles last season with 33, Carrier is another veteran presence in a once again very strong Gee-Gees secondary. Carrier hits harder than his size and is a solid presence in pass coverage.
LB/DE Zach Plausini – A versatile defensive presence for the Gee-Gees, similarly to departing defensive star Khadim Mbaye, Plausini can play both in the linebacking corps and as a defensive end. Last year, the Hamilton, Ont. native picked up 22 tackles, two sacks, two tackles for loss, and a pass breakup.

Key recruits or transfers:

DE Jaden Lattamore – With all the intangibles of a great defensive end, Lattamore from London, Ont.’s South Collegiate, will be pressuring quarterbacks immediately for the Gee-Gees. Represented on Team Ontario at the Canada Cup.
DB Mike Miller – Transfer from StFX, Millar returns to his hometown to play for the Gee-Gees. Missed last season due to injury, in 2016 posted 29 tackles for the X-Men, in 2015 had 18.5 tackles in his first season.
DT Harley Burke – From Leo Hayes H.S. (Fredericton, N.B.), Burke brings undeniable size and athleticism to the defensive tackle position. Standing 6-5 and having cut down to a leaner 295 lbs., Burke has the attributes to cause fits for opposing offences.
LB Kyle Rodger – A transfer from the Montréal Carabins, Rodger returns to the National Capital Region where he attended Cégep de l’Outaouais in Gatineau, Que. Outside linebacker with a high upside this season with Ottawa.
DB Ryk Vanderpol – A transfer from Carleton, Vanderpol moves up the Rideau Canal to uOttawa. At 6-3, 190 lbs. the Nelson H.S. (Burlington, Ont.) product will be a solid addition to the Gee-Gees defence.

Key losses:

DB Jackson Bennett (Hamilton Tiger-Cats)
S Ty Cranston (S, Montreal Alouettes)
LB / DE Khadim Mbaye (Montreal Alouettes)
DE Alain Pae

SPECIAL TEAMS

Key returning players:

LS Jason-Lee Jones
RET Kalem Beaver
RET Bryce Vieira
P Loic Legendre

Key recruits or transfers:

K Max Capriotti – From Bishop Tonnos C.S.S. (Ancaster, Ont.). In his rep football season this summer with the Hamilton Varsity Tiger Cats VR (OPFL), Capriotti led the province hitting 12 of 13 field goals and 12 of 12 on extra points.
K Campbell Fair – From Nicholson Catholic College (Belleville, Ont.). In his rep football season this summer with the Kingston Grenadiers VR (OPFL), Fair went 8 for 8 on both field goals and extra points.

Key losses:

K Lewis Ward (Ottawa REDBLACKS)
DB/RET Jackson Bennett (Hamilton Tiger-Cats)

Queen’s Gaels

2017 regular season record: 4-4
2017 regular season standings: 6^th in OUA
2017 playoff record: 0-1
2017 playoff finish: Lost 12-9 to McMaster in OUA quarter-final

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General Write-Up:

The Gaels started their 2017 season with back-to-back heartbreaking losses. First, a last-minute touchdown by the Carleton Ravens handed the Gaels their first loss in their home opener. The following week, a late field goal by the Ottawa Gee-Gees meant they started off 0-2. After two more losses against Laurier and Western the Gaels finished the first half 0-4.

The second half was a completely different story. The Gaels cruised through their final four games with their narrowest margin of victory being 18 in a home win against the York Lions. On the final week of the season, the Gaels clinched the final playoff spot with a win against Toronto along with some help from across the league.

In their playoff game against McMaster, the Gaels were able to keep it close throughout but were never able to find the end zone resulting in a 12-9 loss.

The Gaels are looking to carry over their late-season success from last year into 2018. With most offensive players returning, the Gaels high-scoring offence should take the next step. However, with vital defensive stars not returning for 2018 others will need to step up and fill their spots.

Quote from head coach: Pat Sheahan

“Nobody’s happy with the middle of the road, nobody’s happy with where we’ve ranked over the past couple of years. We want to be up there with the big boys. It’s going to be fascinating to see how this group grabs the reigns and how far they take the team.”

Head Coach: Pat Sheahan

- Number of seasons as head coach with team (including 2018): 19 seasons.
- Number of seasons as head coach in U SPORTS (including 2018): 30 seasons.
- Career regular season record with team: 87-57-0
- Career regular season record in U SPORTS: 135-90-1
- Career overall record with team (reg. season & playoffs only): 99-69-0
- Career overall record in U SPORTS (reg. season & playoffs only): 153-110-1

OFFENCE

Number of returning starters: 8

Key returning players:

QB Nate Hobbs returns for 5^th season. Second Team OUA All-Star (2017). Led U SPORTS in 2017 TD passes (21). Led OUA and second in U SPORTS in passing yards in 2017 (2,570). Needs 364 passing yards to surpass a career total of 7,000.
REC Chris Osei-Kusi returns for 4^th season. First Team OUA All-Star (2017). Led OUA and fifth in U SPORTS in 2017 in TD receptions (7). Second in OUA and ninth in U SPORTS in 2017 in receiving yards (723). Led Team East in receiving yards (47) in 2017 East-West Bowl.
RB Jake Puskas returns for 3^rd season. Fifth in OUA in 2017 in rushing yards (727) and fourth in rushing TDs (6).
FB Marquis Richards returns for 4^th season. Was selected to Team West in the 2017 East-West Bowl. In 2017, returned mid-season and helped the Gaels finish 4-0 in the second half of the season.

Key recruits or transfers:

RB Rasheed Tucker from from Upper Canada College (Toronto, Ont.). 2015 UCC Athlete of the Year as well as Rookie of the Year. 2016 Durham Dolphins JV team MVP and UCC MVP. Back-to-back CISAA championships in 2015-16.
QB James Keenan from Sacred Hearts CHS (Ottawa, Ont.). 2017 Fox 40 Prospect Challenge game MVP.
RB Nathan Langley from Notre Dame CHS (Burlington, Ont.). Member of Team Ontario during the 2017 U-18 Canada Cup.

Key losses:

REC Alex Zulys had career-highs in receiving in 2017 and found a larger role in the offence. He had 26 receptions for 306 yards to go along with two touchdown receptions.
RB Jonah Pataki was the lead back for the Gaels in 2016 when he posted 814 rushing yards to go along with 7 TDs. His 2017 campaign was cut short due to injury and in 3 games he gained 203 yards.

DEFENCE

Number of returning starters: 3

Key returning players:

DB Ejaz Causer returns for 4^th season. Career-high 31 tackles in 2017 to go along with an interception. Was selected to Team East in the 2017 East-West Bowl. Recipient of the Queen’s Nixon Academic Leadership Award for his achievements in academics, community service and fair play.
DL Cam Lawson returns for his 3^rd season. Second Team OUA All-Star (2017). He recorded 3.5 sacks to go along with 24.5 tackles.
LB Dominic Ciraco returns for his 3^rd season. OUA All-Rookie in 2016. Missed the entirety of the 2017 season with an injury but will return for 2018.

Key recruits or transfers:

DE Anthony Federico from Saint Michael CHS (Niagara Falls, Ont.). 2017 Defensive MVP and CJFL All-Star with the Hamilton Hurricanes.
LB Wells Karabin from St. Andrew’s College (Aurora, Ont.).
DB Eric Colonna from St. Marcellinus (Mississauga, Ont.). 2017 CFC All-Canadian and ROPSSAA defensive player of the year. Also a member of the Mississauga Warriors (OPFL).

Key losses:

LB Nelkas Kwemo was drafted by the Toronto Argonauts in the 2^nd round, 18^th overall in the 2018 CFL Draft. In the 2017 season he was a First Team OUA All-Star as well as a First Team U SPORTS All-Canadian. He amassed 149 career tackles through four seasons and in 2017 he recorded career-highs in sacks (4) and interceptions (3).
LB Mike Moore was drafted by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the 6^th round, 44^th overall in the 2018 CFL Draft. Was among Queen’s team leaders in tackles each of his four seasons. Averaged 5.8 tackles per game throughout his career.
DB Wesley Mann capped off his four-year Gaels career with a First Team OUA All-Star selection. He picked off seven interceptions throughout his career, however five of those came in 2016 where he tied for the OUA lead in the category.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Key returning players: Liberatore, Arhen

K/P Nick Liberatore returns for 3^rd season. Went 13/19 on Field Goals last season and was 34/34 on PATs.

REC/KR Benjamin Arhen returns for 2^nd season. During his six games played he was the team’s primary kick returner. He netted 259 yards on 16 returns.

RB/PR Nolan Bedard returns for 2^nd season. During his seven games played he was the team’s primary punt returner. He netted 342 yards on 25 returns.

Toronto Varsity Blues

2017 regular season record: 1-7
2017 regular season standings: 11^th in OUA
2017 playoff record: N/A
2017 playoff finish: N/A

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General Write-Up:

Under the direction of first-year head coach Greg Marshall, the Varsity Blues are a young and determined team, looking to improve upon last season’s results. Marshall, who became the 26^th head coach in program history this past December, hit the ground running and welcomed over 40 first-year players to training camp.

Toronto’s defence will be bolstered by five returning veterans: defensive linemen Mekhi Henry and Carter Gladman, linebackers Damoy Robinson and Lamar Foyle and defensive back Nick Hallett.

On offence, the Blues return quarterbacks Clay Sequiera and Connor Ennis, who both saw situational playing time in 2017. Also returning is an exciting young receiving corps; second-year receiver Will Corby had a breakout rookie season in 2017, leading the squad with 27 catches for 412 yards and two majors, while Nick Stadnyk and Wacey Schell provided reliable targets and will be counted on for some veteran leadership in 2018.

Quote from head coach: Greg Marshall

“I’m looking forward to the growth potential of our team. We are a pretty young squad and it’s going to be fun to work with these guys and watch them grow each day. We’re going to have to play smart football. We’re going to have to take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves and we’re going to have to make some of our own opportunities.”

Head Coach: Greg Marshall

Number of seasons as head coach with team (including 2018): 1
Number of seasons as head coach in U SPORTS (including 2018): 1
Career regular season record with team: 0-0
Career regular season record in U SPORTS: 0-0
Career overall record with team (reg. season & playoffs only):0-0
Career overall record in U SPORTS (reg. season & playoffs only): 0-0

OFFENCE

Number of returning starters: 5

Key returning players:

QB Clay Sequeira returns for his third season in the Blue and White. Sequeira started in Toronto’s last three regular season games in 2017. He led the Blues in pass yards (888) and ranked second in rushing yards (238).
QB Connor Ennis enters his second season at U of T. The 2017 transfer from Washington State started five games in 2017, racking up 279 yards and two touchdowns.
WR Will Corby will look to once again lead Toronto’s receivers. Corby led OUA rookie receivers with 27 catches for 412 yards and two touchdowns in 2017.
WR Nick Stadnyk has an impressive sophomore campaign, ranking second on the team with 23 receptions and third with 295 receiving yards. The 6-foot-2, 200-pound receiver from Collingwood represented U of T at the 2018 East West Bowl in Quebec City.

Key recruits or transfers:

OL Mostafa Mehry is a 6-foot-6, 315-pound lineman from Leamington, Ont. He helped the Winsor AKO Fratmen to two Ontario Football Conference (OFC) championship titles. He is the older brother of Mojtaba (listed below).
OL Mojtaba Mehry is a 6-foot-5, 300-pound offensive lineman. The Leamington, Ont., native also played for the Windsor AKO Fratmen and was named the male athlete of the year at Leadmington D.H.S. He is the younger brother of Mostafa (listed above).
OL Connor Graham is a 6-foot-2, 275-pound offensive lineman from the powerhouse Nelson Lords in Burlington, Ont. He helped Team Canada to a gold-medal finish at the U20 international football championships in Mexico City in July.
WR Michael Lehmann is a 5-foot-10 receiver, who also joins the Blues from the Nelson Lords in Burlington, Ont.

Key losses:

RB Kaleb Leach
OL Danny Sprukulis
TE Zach Van Kerrebroeck

DEFENCE

Number of returning starters: 7

Key returning players:

DL Mekhi Henry is a 6-foot-3, 290-pound defensive lineman from Brampton, Ont. Henry started all eight games in 2017, leading the Blues with four sacks and seven TFL.
DL Carter Gladman is a 6-foot-1, 240-pound defensive lineman. The Oakville, Ont., native also started all eight games last season, notching 22 tackles, one sack and two break ups.
LB Damoy Robinson is back for his fourth year in the Blue and White. The 5-foot-11, 208-pound native of Brampton, Ont., recorded 19.5 tackles in three games, including a career-high 12 in Toronto`s 2017 season opener at Laurier, before being sidelined due to injury last season.
LB Lamar Foyle had a breakout season in 2017. The 5-foot-10, 225-pound linebacker represented U of T at the 2018 East West Bowl after notching 31 tackles, three TFL and one interception in eight games last season.
DB Nick Hallett led the Blues and ranked fourth in the OUA with 60 tackles last season. He also represented U of T at the 2018 East West Bowl in Quebec City.

Key recruits or transfers:

DL Lukash Cunningham is a 6-foot-5, 230-pound product of the Ernest Manning Griffins, where he was named the best lineman for the past two seasons.
DL Jackson Mayer is a 6-foot-5, 240-pound rookie from the London Junior Mustangs. He was also named the 2017 lineman of the year on the Saunders Sabres.

Key losses:

LB Paul Kozachuk
LB Corey Williams

SPECIAL TEAMS

Key returning players:

K/P Ethan Shafer is back for his third season with the Blues. He will look to step into a starting role to replace two-time U SPORTS all-Canadian TJ Morton.
Returner Daniel Diodati enters his second season with the Blues. He ranked second on the team with 13 punt returns and third with 74 punt return yards in 2017, while also making seven kick returns for 113 yards.

Key losses:

P TJ Morton

Waterloo Warriors

2017 regular season record: 4-4
2017 regular season standings: 7^th in OUA
2017 playoff record: DNQ

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General Write-Up:

Coming off one of their most captivating seasons in over a decade, Waterloo football is once again back on the map.

The Warriors started the season 4-0 for the first time since 1998 and were ranked ninth in the country, enthralling the entire UW community.

Despite missing the post-season on the very last week of OUA action, the Warriors have all of the key pieces in place and with another standout recruiting class, the black and gold are ready to march into the postseason for the first time since 2003.

Waterloo opens their season on Aug. 26 against the same opponent as 2017, the Windsor Lancers, this time however on home field. Waterloo will then head down the 401 to take on Toronto on Labour Day weekend, before returning home for Black and Gold Day on Saturday, Sept. 8 against Carleton, a game certainly circled on the calendar by many.

Last season Waterloo mounted one of the most incredible comebacks of the season, topping Carleton 45-43 to keep their perfect start alive and move to 4-0. If the Warriors hope to stay perfect after four games this year, they will need to get past Laurier on Week 4 in the Battle of Waterloo, hosted by the Golden Hawks at University Stadium.

Quote from head coach: Chris Bertoia

“We are incredibly eager and hungry to get the 2018 season under way,” says head coach Chris Bertoia.

“After three full years of recruiting and development we have all of our pieces in place to content with the top programs in the OUA. Once our guys started getting the taste for victory it was contagious and you could see it in their eyes after our season opening victory in Windsor. There is a lot of energy in our locker room, on the field and you get a sense that tour guys are ready for the next step. It’s our time to seize the opportunity and win the day.”

Head Coach: Chris Bertoia

Number of seasons as head coach with team (including 2018): 4
Number of seasons as head coach in U SPORTS (including 2018): 4
Career regular season record with team: 4-16
Career regular season record in U SPORTS: 4-16
Career overall record with team (reg. season & playoffs only): 4-16
Career overall record in U SPORTS (reg. season & playoffs only): 4-16

OFFENCE

Key returning players:

QB Tre Ford had an outstanding season in his rookie year winning both the OUA and U SPORTS Rookie of the Year Awards. Ford finished 12^th in U SPORTS in rushing yards with 717, fourth in passing efficiency (158.8), and fifth in completion percentage (66.7%). In May, Ford joined the Montreal Alouettes as part of CFL's QB internship program, participating in all training camp activities, gaining valuable experience heading into his sophomore year.
WR Richmond Nketiah returns for his fifth and final year after an incredible 2017. Last season, the recreation and leisure student finish first in U SPORTS with five TD receptions, while collecting 28 catches for 332 yards. Nketiah was selected in the 7^th round, 56^th overall in the 2018 CFL Draft.
WR Tyler Ternowski is back for his third year after earning a spot on the First-Team All-Star list last year. In 2017, Ternowski led his team in receptions for the second straight season with 700 receiving yards and three touchdowns in just five games. Ternowski also led all OUA receivers with an average of 141 yards per game.
WR Mitch Kernick had another solid year last season and is back for his fifth and final season. Kernick was second on the team in receptions with 28, amassing 365 yards for 60.8 yards per game. He finished 2017 with four touchdowns and has 826 career receiving yards.
RB Dion Pellerin returns for his third season after a monstrous 2017 campaign. Pellerin finished the season with 504 rushing yards for an average of 63 yards per game. His season was highlighted in Week 4, putting up 138 rushing yards and 2 touchdown runs both over 50 yards, in Waterloo’s 45-43 come from behind win over Carleton.
OL Jesse Gibbon returns for his fourth year. The 6-foot-5 lineman has been a key piece of the rebuild with his strength and size. In the summer of 2016, Gibbon won gold with team Canada at the IFAF U19 World Championship, defeating the US 24-6 in the championship game. This past spring, Gibbon took part in the 2018 U SPORTS East-West Bowling, helping his West squad to a 15-14 come from behind victory.

Key recruits or transfers:

Kyle Harrington (OL) is an experienced, smart, physical offensive lineman that will compete to dress this season.
Nicklas Sua (RB) led the OVFL in rushing in 2017 and is a physical, shifty runner who will add depth at the running back position.
Charles Gillen (HB) is an all-around athlete that can excel at a variety of positions both on offence and defence.
Jet Correia (OL) is strong and smart, and will compete to dress this season.

Key losses:

Blair McKay (WR)
Kyle Ward (DB)

DEFENCE

Key returning players:

LB Kurtis Gray returns for his third year after a second straight standout season in 2017. Gray was named a Second-Team All-Star after leading the Warriors in tackles with 56.5 along with two sacks. The talented defensive star makes for an imposing presence for the opposition and is expected to be another impact player this year.
DB Tyrell Ford was a force in the backfield in his rookie season with 27 solo tackles. Ford racked up an incredible 772 yards with 538 coming off punts (first in OUA) and 234 on kick returns. Tyrell made one of the biggest impressions on the league in his first career game with two punt returns for touchdowns, one for 98 and the other for 100 yards, as Waterloo defeated Windsor 54-33 for their first win in two years.
DB Lautaro Frecha enters his fourth season with the black and gold. Frecha had an outstanding year for the Warriors in 2017, recording 37 tackles (21st in the OUA), one sack and one interception. Frecha was also a member of the West team at the 2018 U SPORTS East-West Bowl, playing a crucial role in the victory with 3.5 tackles and one sack.
DB Michael Reid returns for his third season after a strong 2017 campaign where he put up 55 tackles and had one interception. Reid will be a key part of Waterloo’s defence once again in 2018.

Key recruits or transfers:

Jack Hinsperger (LB) is a CanadaFootballChat.com (CFC) top 100 player and one of two local Linebackers that will compete to dress on special teams and defence.
Daeshaun Jupiter-Dean (DB) is another CFC top 100 player that is a physical presence and will compete to play at defensive back.
Liam Gracey (DL), also a CFC top 100 player from a highly reputable high school, Saint Andrews College, and will compete to dress as a defensive lineman.
Andy Melo (DB), also a CFC top 100 player from Royal Imperial Collegiate that will make an impact on Waterloo’s back field.

Key losses:

Brandon Corelli (LB)
Paul Kaija (LB)
Tamaul Lewis-Gostlin (DL)
Ethan McDonagh (DB)

SPECIAL TEAMS

Key returning players:

Tyrell Ford (K/P Return)
Gordon Lam (K Return)
Caleb Girard (K/P)

Key recruits or transfers:

Bigg Medensky (FB)
Geryd Lesage (DB)
Immanuel Onyemah (WR)
Justin Succar (WR)
Andre Coulombe (DB)

Western Mustangs

2017 regular season record: 8-0
2017 regular season standings: 1^st in OUA
2017 playoff record: 4-0
2017 playoff finish: Won the Vanier Cup with a 39-17 victory over Laval

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General Write-Up:

The 2018 season is sure to be a little different for the Mustangs as this year’s squad prepares to do something that no other Western football team has done for more than two decades: enter the year as defending national champions.

After an undefeated regular season, last year’s playoff run couldn’t have been any better if it was scripted, with the Mustangs banishing demons of the past nearly every step of the way. First, the Mustangs avenged their heartbreaking losses in the 2015 and 2016 Yates Cup finals by handily defeating the Guelph Gryphons and Laurier Golden Hawks - their opponents in those two losses.

After dispatching the Acadia Axemen in the Uteck Bowl, the stage was set for a rematch of the 2008 Vanier Cup with the Mustangs heading to Hamilton to face the Laval Rouge et Or. In the same town as their matchup a decade earlier, the Mustangs completed their run to the championship, taking down the defending national champions 39-17 to claim their first Vanier Cup Championship since 1994.

The majority of the offence that outscored opponents by a combined score of 647-169 in 12 games is back and will once again be led by OUA All-Star quarterback and Vanier Cup MVP Chris Merchant. Joining Merchant in the backfield will be Cedric Joseph, who broke onto the national stage last year with 12 touchdowns in four playoff games, and Alex Taylor who returns for his final year as a Mustang.

Western’s top-ranked defence will have a different look in 2018 with the departures of linebackers Nick Vanin and Jean-Gabriel Poulin, along with defensive back Jesse McNair. Despite those changes, the purple and white defence remains strong through the middle of the field with veterans Philippe Dion and Fraser Sopik back to lead the Mustangs linebackers. Look for the secondary to be led by Bleska Kambamba and Daniel Valente Jr., while Jimmy Hawley is back to man the middle of the Mustangs defensive line.

Quote from head coach: Greg Marshall

“We’re looking forward to getting the season started – we’ve got a great team here and can’t wait to get back out on the field,” said Mustangs head coach Greg Marshall. “Most of our starters are back, and they’ve got another year of experience under their belts so we’re happy to have that continuity from last season. We’ve also got a number of young players that are ready to step in and make an impact, giving us good depth on both sides of the ball.

“Obviously we’re excited to be coming off the year that we had, but our approach hasn’t changed. We’re going to continue to focus on improving each week, and make sure that we take each game as it comes.”

Head Coach: Greg Marshall

Number of seasons as head coach with team (including 2018): 12
Number of seasons as head coach in U SPORTS (including 2018): 19
Career regular season record with team: 73-15
Career regular season record in U SPORTS: 115-27-2
Career overall record with team (reg. season & playoffs only): 94-25
Career overall record in U SPORTS (reg. season & playoffs only): 148-43-2

OFFENCE

Number of returning starters: 9

Key returning players:

QB Chris Merchant is back for his third season in purple and white after a fantastic 2017 campaign. Last season he threw for 1995 yards on 127 for 207 passing throughout the regular season with 12 touchdowns and nine interceptions, and was named Vanier Cup MVP.
RB Alex Taylor’s 831 yards led the Mustangs last season and became the focal point of the nation’s strongest run game. He already sits among the best running backs at Western, and is on track to set campus records this season.
RB Cedric Joseph broke out last season with an astounding 12 touchdowns in the post season, in addition to the 10 he scored during the regular season. The fourth-year veteran returns after recording 578 yards throughout the regular season on 84 carriers.

Key recruits or transfers:

RB Spencer Nichols is a highly-touted running back from London South, and joins his hometown Mustangs after previously playing for both Team Ontario and Team Canada prior to donning the purple and white.
REC Dejuan Martin joins the Mustangs after transferring from the St. Francis Xavier X-Men. In 18 games with the X-Men, Martin made 75 catches for 975 yards and 10 touchdowns.
REC Francois Rocheleau is coming off a fantastic season in CEGEP, with 40 receptions for 841 yards and seven touchdowns for Andre-Grasset.

Key losses:

OL Mark Wheatley
OL Matt Bettencourt
FB David Mackie

DEFENCE

Number of returning starters: 7

Key returning players:

LB Philippe Dion is back for his final season in purple and white after a year that saw him rack up 27.5 tackles – averaging 3.4 per game – and two sacks.
DB Bleska Kambamba steps in as a veteran member of the Mustangs defensive secondary as he enters his third season at Western. The last two years have seen him take on increasingly prominent roles on the field, including starting all but one game in 2017. He was named an OUA-All-Star after recording 20 tackles, two sacks, and an interception that he ran back for a touchdown.
LB Fraser Sopik returns for his fourth season, fresh off an appearance at the 2018 East-West Bowl. Before making a statement and being named the Vanier Cup Defensive MVP, Sopik put up the best stats of his career with 32.5 tackles in eight regular season games to earn a spot as an OUA All-Star.

Key recruits or transfers:

LB Mike Moore comes to Western after spending the past four seasons playing for the rival Queen’s Gaels. The linebacker played in 32 regular season contests with Queen’s, recording 139 tackles and five sacks, along with five forced fumbles and two interceptions.
DB Robert Panabaker is no stranger to the Mustangs, having played in the London area for both London South and the London Jr. Mustangs. Panabaker won titles with both squads, helping South win the OFSAA Championship in 2017 and playing two undefeated seasons with the Mustangs in 2017 and 2018.
DL Deionte Knight arrives at Western after spending last season playing with Arizona Western College of the NJCAA where he helped the Matadors to a 7-0 conference record. Prior to his time with Arizona Western, Knight played for Football North where he racked up 38.5 tackles and 8.5 sacks.

Key losses:

LB Nick Vanin
LB Jean-Gabriel Poulin
DB Jesse McNair

SPECIAL TEAMS

Key returning players:

K Marc Liegghio is back after recording 22 field goals (81 per cent) and 37 extra points last season to rank first in U SPORTS scoring. Liegghio also handles the punting duties for the Mustangs, averaging 36.7 yards per punt last season, with his longest going for 50 yards.

Windsor Lancers

2017 regular season record: 1-7
2017 regular season standings: 9^th in OUA
2017 playoff record: N/A
2017 playoff finish: N/A

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General Write-Up:

The Lancers are entering their 50^th season of competition armed with a healthy returning quarterback and a recruiting class worth being excited about.

After missing most of last season, quarterback Sam Girard is returning with another year of the playbook under his belt. Girard played in only one full game last season, leading the Lancers to their only win of the season scoring 52 points against York.

Aside from playing a healthy season, Girard will also have some new receivers as the Lancers bring in three receivers over 6-foot-5, including Marcus Monticcolo who stands the tallest at 6-7. Monticcolo is one of 43 reasons to be excited about this season as well, as the Lancers will be debuting the largest recruiting class of Coach D’Amore’s tenure with 43 freshmen set to don the Blue and Gold for the first time.

On the defensive side of the ball there are changes coming as well as new defensive coordinator Jesse Alexander makes his debut on Aug. 26 when the Lancers open the season at Waterloo.

“Jesse Alexander is an experienced coach who has over 10 years of assistant coaching under his belt,” said Coach D’Amore. “He is definitely ready to take over his own defense. He was an outstanding player at Laurier and will bring an aggressive style of defense.”

Quote from head coach: Joe D’Amore

“We are very athletic this season. Our defense is faster, and we bring back a number of key players on offense. If we can stay healthy , the sky is the limit for us.”

Head Coach: Joe D’Amore

Number of seasons as head coach with team (including 2018): 8
Number of seasons as head coach in U SPORTS (including 2018): 8
Career regular season record with team: 22-34
Career regular season record in U SPORTS: 22-34
Career overall record with team (reg. season & playoffs only): 23-38
Career overall record in U SPORTS (reg. season & playoffs only): 23-38

OFFENCE

Number of returning starters: 10

Key returning players:

OL Drew Desjarlais
OL Lucas Moore
WR Tristan Carter
RB Marcus Kentner

Key recruits or transfers:

OL Colin Campbell - Sarnia
OL Blake Collinson - Strathroy
QB Colby Henkel - Kanloops (CJFL Player)

Key losses:

OL Brett Boersma

DEFENCE

Number of returning starters: 9

Key returning players:

DB Matt Gayer
DB Evan Martin
LB Dan Metcalfe
DL Courtney Ellis

Key recruits or transfers:

DL Adam Slikboer - Windsor (CJFL player)
LB Bennet Vani - Sarnia
DB Owen Ford - Ottawa
DL Zack Susko - Windsor

Key losses:

DB Lekan Idowu

SPECIAL TEAMS

Key returning players:

K/P Clark Green

Key recruits or transfers:

K/P Griffin Fenton - Windsor

York Lions

2017 regular season record: 1-7
2017 regular season standings: 10^th in OUA
2017 playoff record: 0-0
2017 playoff finish: N/A

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General Write-Up:

The 2017 York Lions football team faced some tough competition and adversity last season and, as a result, picked up one win in their schedule. The win established some city-wide bragging rights over crosstown rival U of T, as they beat the Varsity Blues by a thrilling final score of 41-16 at the 48th annual Red & Blue Bowl in a game the Lions controlled from start to finish.

The Lions played a number of playoff teams tough throughout the season, including holding a fourth-quarter lead over Ottawa in an eventual narrow loss. Tight end Nikola Kalinic and defensive end Rossini Sandiong-Djabome earned OUA second-team all-star honours for the first time, while Daniel Loggale earned a spot on the OUA all-rookie team.

The Lions head into the 2018 season backed by a strong recruiting class and several key returning veterans who are some of the most talented players the York football program has ever seen. With a solid off-season and training camp behind them, the Lions are primed to make a splash this season in the OUA standings and have the potential to surprise a few teams along the way.

Quote from head coach: Warren Craney

“This is a team that, with the weapons we have on offense, we need to be a playoff team. We have the talent up and down the lineup to make it to the playoffs. We’re coming off a 1-7 season and our expectations are that we are going to flip that record completely on its head.”

Head Coach: Warren Craney

Number of seasons as head coach with team (including 2018): 9
Number of seasons as head coach in U SPORTS (including 2018): 9
Career regular season record with team: 9-55

OFFENCE

Key returning players:

Brett Hunchak ranked fifth in the OUA in passing yards with 1795, fourth in completions (149) and attempts (245) last season. He also threw nine touchdown passes and ran for 215 yards on 34 rushes and added a pair of rushing touchdowns, one each against Laurier and Windsor.

He’s currently ranked second all-time in passing yards (4,832), fourth in touchdown passes (23), second in completions (385) and fourth in attempts (644) in York history and earned York’s Leonard Jean-Pierre W21 Offensive MVP Award in 2016. He participated in the Calgary training camp as part of the U SPORTS-CFL quarterback development program in 2016 and joined Edmonton for the same program in 2017 and won a silver medal as the starting quarterback for Team Canada at the 2014 U19 world junior championships in Kuwait
Colton Hunchak started only three games last year after missing the first five with an injury sustained in the preseason. He amassed 29 catches for 329 receiving yards, averages of 9.6 and 109.7 per game. Tied for second in OUA with six touchdowns, including three against Queen’s and two against Laurier, tied for the second most in a single season in York history.

He was named an OUA West second-team all-star in 2016 and an OUA all-rookie team member in 2015. Earned the team’s Leonard Jean-Pierre W21 Offensive MVP trophy in 2017 and York’s Frank Cosentino Team MVP Award in 2016. He also won a silver medal with Team Canada at the 2014 U19 world junior championships in Kuwait.
Kayden Johnson played in all eight games at running back last season and had 56 rushes for 270 yards, including 11 carries for 124 yards against Queen’s in his best game of the season. He tied for fifth in the OUA in yards per rush (5.8) and was 10th in total rushes (85) and rushing yards (489) in 2016 and represented Canada at back-to-back U19 International Bowls in 2014 and 2015

He’s also a member of the Lions track and field team, winning U SPORTS and OUA gold medals in the 60m hurdles last season and was named York’s male athlete of the year in 2017-18.

Key recruits or transfers:

Noah Craney – A quarterback with a lot of potential and a strong throwing arm. He played at Vanier College in CEGEP the last two seasons and helped lead them to a 7-2 regular season record in 2017. Threw for 700 yards and five touchdowns last year. He was team MVP with the York Region Lions of the OVFL in 2017 and suited up for Team Central Varsity at the Ontario prospects challenge in 2016
Darnel Jarrett - A dangerous running back with athleticism and breakaway speed. He spent two years at Vanier College in CEGEP and rushed for 738 yards and scored eight touchdowns. Also caught five passes for 41 yards out of the backfield. He was named OVFL all-star in 2015 is a former member of Team Ontario.
Caleb Palmateer - A talented offensive lineman who’s played at centre and guard. He played with the Ottawa Sooners of the CJFL from 2016-18 and competed at Ontario prospect challenge in 2013

Key losses:

RB Jesse Amankwaa
WR Adam Adeboboye
OL Christopher Smith

DEFENCE

Key returning players:

Damien Jamieson - Appeared in seven games and started four at linebacker last season. He ranked eighth on the team with 19 total tackles, including four for a loss of 21 yards. Also had 2.5 sacks, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.

He played in seven games as a rookie linebacker in 2016 and recorded 5.5 tackles, one forced fumble, two pass break-ups and one block and earned York’s Andre Durie Special Teams MVP Trophy.
Rossini Sandjong-Djabome - Started all eight games at defensive end last season and earned OUA second-team all-star honours for the first time. He ranked third in the OUA in tackles for loss (12) for an OUA-leading 68 yards lost and tied for ninth in the OUA with four sacks. Also ranked second on the team and 21st in the OUA with 37 tackles and added two fumble recoveries and two pass break-ups. Ross earned the team’s Nobby Wirkowski Defensive MVP Award and earned OUA all-rookie team honours in 2016. He also won the silver medal with Team Canada at the 2014 U19 world junior championships in Kuwait.
Kadeem Thomas - Played in six games as a rookie defensive back and spent some time as a returner and had five punt returns for 112 yards, including a thrilling 50-yard touchdown against Carleton. He also recorded 12 tackles, including one tackle for loss.

Key recruits or transfers:

Matt Dean - An athletic and tough linebacker who will make an immediate impact. He won back-to-back LOSSA gold medals with the Paul Dwyer Saints in 2015 and 2016 and won the OFSAA Eastern Bowl title in 2015. He also won team defensive MVP in 2013 and was named offensive MVP last season
Gaetano Minto - A skilled defensive back whose skills should translate well in the OUA. He played with the Edmonton Huskies of the CJFL from 2014-17 and recorded 42 tackles in 25 career games with the Huskies. He also picked off five passes in his four years with the team, including an interception return for a touchdown in 2016 and was selected for the Alberta provincial football team in 2013.
Brandon Owusu - A four-time high school champion and was captain of his team for three years from grade 10-12. He competed in two OFSAA Bowls and was named team MVP twice in his high school career. He spent three years with the Etobicoke Eagles of the OVFL and won a championship with them in 2017.

Key losses:

None

SPECIAL TEAMS

Key returning players:

Nikola Kalinic - Named an OUA second-team all-star for the first time last season. Started all eight games at tight end and recorded seven catches for 58 yards and earned the team’s Andre Durie Special Teams MVP Award. He’s played in all 24 games during his time at York, recording 26 catches for 271 yards and two touchdowns over his career. Represented Canada at the 2016 U19 International Bowl in Texas.
Dante Mastrogiuseppe - Started all eight games as a rookie kicker and ranked seventh in the OUA in punting average (38.6), with 69 punts for 2,664 yards, the eighth most yards in York history, and average of 38.6 yards per punt is the second-highest mark. He also had 28 kick-offs for 1,462 yards and went nine-for-18 on field goals, with a long of 42 yards, and converted 14 of 15 extra points.
Alex Daley - Started six games at receiver in 2017 and ranked fourth on the team in total receptions (25) and tied for second in receiving yards (329). He scored two touchdowns, one against Toronto and one against Queen’s. He also had nine kick returns for 136 yards and 18 punt returns for 163 yards last season. He ranked fourth in the OUA and fifth in U SPORTS in all-purpose yards (1,156) in rookie season.

Men’s Football

RSEQ Football Players to Watch

24 Aug 2018, 04:00 PM 24 August 2018, 04:00 PM

U SPORTS Staff