Football Masculin
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General Write-Up:
The 2018 team had one of many changes in players and coaching staff. The year had some ups and downs but overall the improvement form 2017 was remarkable. Coming into the 2019 season, expectations are high with excitement with the combination of new recruits and returning payers preparing for the upcoming season.
Quote from head coach: Steve Sumarah
“The 2018 season showed promise but in the end we struggled to move past the semifinals against a very good Western team. This loss fueled one of the best off-seasons we have had since the programs returned. An outstanding recruiting class plus a group of recruiting vets has the coaching staff excited to see where we can move this program.”
Head Coach: Steve Sumarah
Number of returning starters: 10
Key returning players:
Key recruits or transfers:
Key losses:
Number of returning starters: 10
Key returning players:
Key recruits or transfers:
Key losses:
Key returning players:
Key recruits or transfers:
Key losses:
Key stats from 2018: 62.5 tackles in 8 regular season games (2nd in OUA)
Awards & honours (since start of U SPORTS career): OUA First Team All-star
PROFILE
Jack is an outstanding player and a dominant linebacker for the Ravens. He is able to make plays sideline to sideline. A big physical player he will be a force on the ravens defence this year.
General Write-Up:
The 2019 season will mark the beginning of a new era in Gryphon football with first-year head coach Ryan Sheahan set to take over a program that has earned appearances in three of the past five Yates Cups. Sheahan leads a Gryphon coaching staff full of new faces, including three new coordinators with the additions of Mark Surya (offence), Dennis McPhee (defence) and Donnavan Carter (special teams). While the coaching staff consists of largely new arrivals, the roster features a strong core of returning players, including fifth-year quarterback Theo Landers, fourth-year receiver Kian Schaffer-Baker and fifth-year middle linebacker Job Reinhart.
In 2018, the Gryphons finished the regular season ranked second in the OUA in rushing with 1,631 yards (203.9 per game). In 2019, the Gryphons once again boast all of the necessary pieces to be in the conversation among the league leaders in rushing thanks to the return of several key players. Veteran offensive lineman Eric Starczala returns from CFL camp after being drafted by the Toronto Argonauts to help anchor the Gryphons up front, while a deep stable of running backs features a talented trio of sophomores in J.P. Cimankinda, Kwame Osei and Juwan Jeffrey.
Quote from head coach: Ryan Sheahan
"I look at it sort of as a blank canvas. We get to paint our own picture and draw our own map of the future. We stress hard work and accountability around every turn, and our key to our team's success this year is going to be our work ethic and our attitude."
Head Coach: Ryan Sheahan
Number of returning starters: 10
Key returning players:
Theo Landers (QB) :
Theo Landers returns for his 5th and final season with the Gryphons. The Maple Ridge, B.C. native has already solidified himself as one of the most athletic quarterbacks in the conference and was the 9th-leading rusher in the OUA a season ago to go along with 1,398 passing yards and a 10-to-3 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Landers enters the 2019 season with 934 yards rushing in his career and needs just 66 more yards rushing to become just the second QB in U of G history to reach the 1,000 yard rushing plateau (Justin Dunk 1st at 1,847 career rushing yards).
Juwan Jeffrey (RB) :
The Brampton, Ont. native Juwan Jeffrey had a phenomenal rookie campaign cut short due to injury, but still earned a spot on the OUA All-Rookie Team after recording a pair of 100-yard rushing performances to go along with a game-winning touchdown over the then-No. 8-ranked Laurier Golden Hawks.
Key recruits or transfers:
Key losses:
Number of returning starters: 9
Key returning players:
Key recruits or transfers:
Key losses:
Key returning players:
Key stats from 2018: 3 touchdown receptions in 5 games played during regular season (370 receiving yards, 74 yards per game)
PROFILE
In fourth-year receiver Kian Schaffer-Baker, the Gryphons have one of the top play-making receivers in all of U SPORTS football. The 6-4, 200-pound Mississauga native stole the spotlight in front of CFL scouts at the 2019 East-West Bowl, finishing as the game’s leading receiver with 5 receptions for 126 yards and a touchdown. During the 2018 season with the Gryphons, Schaffer-Baker hauled in three touchdown receptions in five regular season games played, averaging an impressive 17.6 yards per reception. The psychology major has also become known for his highlight-reel catches, including a breathtaking one-handed grab in last year’s Week 3 matchup at Ottawa. With Schaffer-Baker consistently showcasing the ability to make acrobatic catches in traffic, Gryphons’ senior quarterback Theo Landers will have one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in the conference at his disposal throughout the 2019 season.
General Write-Up:
The 2018 season was a difficult one for the Golden Hawks as they failed to make the postseason after making back-to-back appearances in the Yates Cup in 2016 and 2017. A combination of injuries at key positions and narrow defeats (three losses by a combined six points) left the Hawks on the outside of the playoff picture looking in.
Despite the loss of some key veterans to the CFL in the offseason, including the OUA’s all-time receptions leader in Kurleigh Gittens Jr., Laurier appears poised to challenge once again for top spot in the conference with a veteran group that is talented on both sides of the ball.
With so much talent on the field, all eyes will be on young quarterback Connor Carusello, who is expected to be the starter for Laurier this season after taking over the role for the team’s final three games last season. If Carusello can get the ball to his playmakers and the defence once again locks down to become one of the best in Canada, the Hawks could be poised to make some noise once the 2019 playoffs roll around.
Quote from head coach: Michael Faulds
“This is one of the better teams we have assembled on paper in my time here. We have great talent at every single position, but as we witnessed first-hand last year, this season will come down to staying healthy and coming together as a team. Internally we are very confident and excited to get back to our winning ways and challenge for the conference championship.”
Head Coach: Michael Faulds
Number of returning starters: 8
Key returning players:
Levondre Gordon (RB) heads into his fifth and final season with the Golden Hawks. The 2018 OUA Second Team All-Star is coming off back-to-back seasons in which he’s averaged more than 100 yards per game and currently ranks sixth on Laurier’s all-time rushing yards list with 2374 yards.
Osayi Iginuan (FB) also is competing in his fifth and final season for Laurier in 2019. After his season was cut short by injury last year, Iginuan is poised to be a short-yardage threat for the Hawks this season as he has nine rushing touchdowns over his last 18 regular season contests.
Brentyn Hall (REC) enters his fourth season with the purple and gold. A two-time OUA Second Team All-Star, he has recorded 500+ yards receiving in each of his first three seasons with the Golden Hawks.
Brendan McCracken (REC) returns for his final season at Laurier. A 2019 U SPORTS East-West Bowl participant, McCracken has averaged 12.4 yards per reception over his career.
Ente Eguavoen (REC) enters his third season as a member of the Golden Hawks. A 2019 U SPORTS East-West Bowl participant, he had a breakout season in 2018, recording 19 receptions for 268 yards and two touchdowns.
JD Richardson (OL) will be competing in his fifth and final season with Laurier in 2019. Having played in every game since the 2016 season, Richardson will be the Hawks primary center in his final year.
Drew Mairleitner (OL) is another fifth-year offensive lineman with the Golden Hawks. Dressing in 31 of 32 games throughout his career, he provides reliability at the guard position for Laurier.
Bryce Bell (OL) returns for his third year with the Golden Hawks. Dressing in all 16 games over the past two seasons, Bell is a force at tackle in keeping pass rushers from reaching the quarterback.
Key recruits or transfers:
Key losses:
Number of returning starters: 9
Key returning players:
DL Trevaughan James heads into his fifth and final season with the Golden Hawks. A 2018 U SPORTS Second Team All-Canadian and two-time OUA First Team All-Star, he finished tied for eighth in the OUA in knockdowns a season ago with five while also picking up w.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles.
DB Will Amoah returns for his fourth season as a member of the purple and gold. A breakout 2018 campaign in which he was named a U SPORTS First Team All-Canadian and OUA First Team All-Star, he finished second in Canada in interceptions with five while recording three knockdowns and 27 tackles.
DL Sam Acheampong also is back for his fourth campaign at Laurier. Pairing with Trevaughan James in heart of the Hawks’ defensive line, Acheampong has six sacks and 34 career tackles in 23 career games.
DB Malcolm Thompson enters his fourth year of eligibility with the Golden Hawks. A First Team All-Canadian in 2016, he has eight career interceptions and 98 total tackles over his first three season at Laurier.
LB Tommy Bringi enters his second season as a member of the purple and gold. In his first year starting with the Hawks, Bringi led the team in solo tackles with 30 and tied for the team lead in total tackles with 33.5, while also recording two sacks.
Key recruits or transfers:
LB Ife Onyemenam (Clarkson SS)
DL Omari Hastings (Burnhamthorpe CI)
Key losses:
DL Robbie Smith
DB Scott Hutter
Key returning players:
K/P Nathan Mesher will be in in his fifth and final season with the Golden Hawks. The owner of multiple school records, including career points (282) and career field goals (55), Mesher has an chance of finishing his career in the Top 10 in U SPORTS for career scoring with a strong season.
Key losses:
RET Kurleigh Gittens Jr.
LS Jon Timmons
Key stats from 2018: Five interceptions in eight regular season games (T2nd in U SPORTS)
Awards & honours (since start of U SPORTS career): 2018 U SPORTS First Team All-Canadian, 2018 OUA First Team All-Star
PROFILE
The 2018 season was one to remember for Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks defensive back Will Amoah. The Kitchener, Ont., native had a breakout campaign, recording 27 tackles and five interceptions, second most in all of U SPORTS. He was the second Golden Hawk in the last 12 years to reach that mark in a single season. His performance garnered him his first OUA All-Star and U SPORTS All-Canadian nod and earned him a spot at the 2019 U SPORTS East West Bowl; all very impressive awards considering he had notched just 18 total tackles through his first two seasons with the purple and gold.
“That was something that I always knew I could do,” said Amoah, on his breakout season. “I played on the offensive side of the ball in high school so I took that offensive mind set and put it in the defensive mind and helped myself out that way.”
His ball-hawking ability was once again on display at the East-West Bowl earlier this year in Ottawa. Going head-to-head with the top players eligible for next year’s CFL Draft, he had one of the West’s two interceptions on the afternoon, along with a game-high six tackles.
“That week was one of the most surreal feelings I have ever experience,” commented Amoah on his experience at East-West Bowl. “You see how talented everybody around Canada is and for you be in that moment it’s like, wow, that is something that you can definitely be proud of.”
As he heads into his draft season, Amoah will have many more eyes on him than a year ago. Scouts will be watching his every move while opposing teams will be game-planning to stay away from him. He’ll also have the added responsibility of being the leader in a defensive secondary that lost Scott Hutter to the CFL and Ron Kinga to graduation. However, the St. Mary’s High School product believes he’s always had that role on the team due to his work ethic and will now be looking to add a vocal element.
“I feel like I have to become a bit more vocal now,” said Amoah. “Before I was a quiet leader guy, but now I have to be more vocal to kind of encourage the team as a whole. I feel like being a quiet leader works when you already have the rah-rah type guys but when we don’t have that we need someone to spark the flame and see where it ignites to kind of thing.”
General Write-Up:
What’s old is new again for Stefan Ptaszek and the Marauders in 2019. After stepping away from the Marauders in 2016 and ending a golden decade on McMaster’s sideline, Ptaszek returns to the helm of the program he led to three Vanier Cup appearances this season with a veteran lineup at his disposal. Marauders fans will hope that combination can help the Maroon and Grey to improve on a 2018 campaign that saw the team finish 5-3 in conference play and exit the OUA playoffs in at the quarterfinal stage.
The Marauders return 23 of their 24 starters from a season ago, including all 12 of those on the defensive side of the ball, and see much of their offensive core enter its third season together in 2019.
Defensively, McMaster will lean heavily on a veteran-laden backfield, including fourth-year East-West Bowl hopeful Nolan Putt at corner, OUA All-Star Noah Hallett at halfback and fifth-year senior Lucas Bill at safety. The trio of Nate Edwards, Eryk Bujalski and 2019 CFL Draft pick Eric Blake return to headline the linebacking corps, while American import Enoch Penney-Laryea enters his second season at the defensive end spot after leading his team with five sacks in 2018.
Defensive coordinator Scott Brady enters his second season at the controls of the Marauders defence, after guiding his unit to the second lowest points (163) and yards per game (378.4) allowed in the OUA in 2018.
On the other side of the ball, McMaster brings new leadership to a maturing group in 2019, with the hiring of former CFLer Corey Grant as the team’s offensive coordinator. Grant and Ptaszek inherit an offensive group losing just one of its 2018 starters in the form of guard Jon Grant.
Andreas Dueck returns under centre for his third year, after assuming starting duties in 2018, and has familiar weapons to work with, including the running back tandem of senior Jordan Lyons and third-year Justice Allin. Fresh from a breakout 2018 that including a 233-yard performance against Toronto, Tommy Nield returns to anchor the Marauders receiving corps in 2019 with the help of second-year starters Xander Tachinski and Levi Paul.
In front of Dueck, the Marauders offensive line gained valuable experience and stability in 2018 and returns four starters, including veterans Joe Bencze at tackle and Jakub Szott at guard.
Quote from head coach: Stefan Ptaszek
"Our defence attacks and will dictate pace and do what it wants to this season. Offences will feel that pressure immediately, and it’s been fun to watch that defence go so far with such an aggressive unit. Offensively, Andreas Dueck is our leader and he’ll take us where we need to go. Look for us to be balanced and be patient in trying to establish the run as well as the pass and set up our bigger shots.
"Our veteran leadership has been vital in getting us ready on a tight turnaround, especially with their investment throughout the spring and summer workouts. We came to camp with a pretty good idea of who we are, and the young guys are following the great example that the older ones are setting."
Head Coach: Stefan Ptaszek
Number of returning starters: 11
Key returning players:
Tommy Nield (WR)
The former OUA All-Rookie Team member enjoyed a breakout campaign in his second season in 2018, leading the Marauders with 552 yards receiving and three touchdowns, including a 233-yard performance against Toronto that ranked 10th on the OUA’s all-time, single-game list.
Justice Allin (RB)
Allin was limited to just three regular season games in his second season at McMaster in 2018 after an extended layoff due to injury, but returned to the lineup to collect 93 receiving yards in his return against the Queen’s Gaels in Week 7.
Joe Bencze (OL)
Making the switch from the defensive to the offensive side of the trenches in 2018, Bencze established himself as a starter at the tackle position and will be one of McMaster’s veteran leaders on the offensive line alongside guard Jakub Szott in 2019.
Andreas Dueck (QB)
Dueck opens the 2019 season as McMaster’s starter under centre in his third season as a Marauder. He enjoyed an expanded role while splitting quarterbacking duties with the departing Jackson White in 2018, throwing for 1458 yards and five touchdowns.
Key recruits or transfers:
Mike Martin (OL)
The 6-foot-5, 255-pound lineman joins the Marauders from Royal Imperial Collegiate of Canada, where he was a fixture at the left tackle position for the international prep program.
Cameron Guest (RB)
A stalwart for London's Catholic Central high school and the Junior Mustangs, Guest was a Canada Football Chat Top 100 prospect and suited up for Team Ontario at the 2018 Football Canada Cup. He helped Catholic Central to a WOSSA regional championship in 2018.
Key losses:
Number of returning starters: 12
Key returning players:
Noah Hallett (DB)
McMaster’s lone OUA All-Star in 2018, Hallett participated in the 2019 U SPORTS East-West Bowl. He is entering his third year as a starter at defensive halfback, having led the Marauders with seven pass breakups a season ago while adding 25.5 tackles and two interceptions.
Eric Blake (LB)
The Marauders strong-side starter in 2018, Blake racked up 33.5 tackles while taking part in all eight of McMaster’s regular season games. He was selected 68th overall in the eighth round of the 2019 CFL Draft by the Edmonton Eskimos.
Enoch Penney-Laryea (DL)
Making a splash in his first year as a Marauder in 2018, Penney-Laryea led McMaster with five sacks while starting seven games on the end. The product of Tuckahoe, N.Y., enters his fourth season of eligibility in 2019, having spent two seasons previously with the NCAA’s Union College.
Key recruits or transfers:
Devonte Ballantyne (DB/RET)
Originally born in Hamilton, Ballantyne moved to London, Ont., as a child, and was a 2018 WOSSA regional champion at London’s Catholic Central high school, and a two-time London high school all-star at the return position. A Canada Football Chat Top 100 prospect, Ballantyne will feature as a defensive back and returner at McMaster.
Zack Ihasz (LB)
A Canada Football Chat Top 100 prospect, Ihasz helped Burlington, Ont., powerhouse Nelson High School to a third consecutive Halton District title in 2018. The former Team Ontario member took part in the 2018 Canada Cup.
Addison Sadler (DL)
A native of Surrey, B.C., Sadler was a Canada Football Chat Top 100 prospect in 2018, after a 2017 season that saw him named to his conference All-Star team. He took part in the Football Canada Cup in 2018 as a member of Team B.C.
Key losses:
Key returning players:
Key recruits or transfers:
Key stats from 2018: seven pass breakups in 2018 (first on team, second in OUA)
Awards & honours (since start of U SPORTS career): 2018 OUA All-Star
PROFILE
Entering his fourth season as a Marauder in 2019, Noah Hallett stands as one of the brightest spots on a stacked McMaster defence that returns all of its starters from a year ago. He was McMaster’s lone representative among the OUA All-Stars in 2018, after racking up 25.5 tackles, seven pass breakups and two interceptions, while starting all eight of his team’s regular season games. Hallett’s athleticism and hard-hitting approach to the game made him one of the OUA’s best pass defenders, and his breakout third season resulted in Hallett being invited to take part in the U SPORTS East-West Bowl in 2019.
With the prospect of the CFL Draft looming in Spring 2020, the defensive back is poised for another strong season at the heart of the McMaster defence, and he has a veteran cast of characters surrounding him that will look to build on the Marauders exemplary 2018, which saw the team finish second in the OUA in points (163) and yards per game (378.4).
General Write-Up:
In many ways, the 2018 season was a step forward for the Ottawa Gee-Gees football program. A 6-2 record en route to a second-place finish in the OUA had the Gee-Gees return to a Top 5 ranking in the U SPORTS Top 10. A five-game winning streak through the middle of the season was highlighted by a 38-27 victory in the 50th Panda Game.
This era of the Garnet and Grey has been marked by stellar defensive teams, which looks to continue this season. A squad that led the nation in interceptions last year remains noticeably intact and has the benefit of developed depth. The Gee-Gees return 10 of 12 starters on defense including their complete linebacking corps, and all but one player in the secondary and on the defensive line.
Offensively, head coach Jamie Barresi has a quarterback in Sawyer Buettner that excelled in his first season and now firmly holds the reigns of the offence. With a talented core of receivers, experience on the offensive line, and solid depth at running back, the Gee-Gees will strive to move the ball with them in the OUA this season.
The price the Gee-Gees pay for their success last season is a schedule of strong opponents for 2019. With a first-week bye, Ottawa will have eight consecutive weeks of play against the best the OUA has to offer, including 2018 playoff teams in McMaster, Guelph, Carleton, and Western.
Momentum is carrying the Gee-Gees into the realm of contention at a national level, now it is time for them to make the most of their opportunity.
Quote from head coach: Jamie Barresi
“We’ve had a good offseason and a good spring, so I’m hoping to keep that momentum. We have to stay healthy and keep our kids fresh and if we can do that, I think we have a really good opportunity.”
Head Coach: Jamie Barresi
Number of returning starters: 7
Key returning players:
QB Sawyer Buettner will look to emerge as one of the OUA’s top quarterbacks in his second year for the Gee-Gees. In seven games last season, the Moose Jaw, Sask., native threw for 1,470 yards and 14 touchdowns. Buettner’s five-touchdown performance leading his team to a victory in the Panda Game against Carleton gained him national attention last season.
REC Carter Matheson will look to close his Gee-Gees career with a bang. The First Team OUA All-Star reeled in 664 yards and 6 touchdowns in a career year last season. An athletic downfield threat, the 6-3, 210-pound threat averaged 83 yards per game and 16.6 per catch last year.
REC Kalem Beaver has long been an offensive weapon for the Gee-Gees. After not being selected in the CFL Draft in the spring, Beaver is back for a fifth and final season to prove he is worthy of a roster spot at the next level. With elite level speed, Beaver eclipsed the 1,000 all-purpose yard mark last season with 1,009 for 126.1 per game.
OL Tanner Bishop and Thomas Rowlands each return for their final seasons in Garnet and Grey. At guard, Bishop (6-2, 355 lbs.) has been a constant on the offensive line and will look to continue to be a powerful force inside for the team. Rowlands (6-8, 330 lbs.) an aggressive and physically imposing tackle, had his best career season last year. An unfortunate injury in the regular season finale has had him rehabbing throughout the offseason ready to return to action for a fifth and final season.
Key recruits or transfers:
REC Maxim Malenfant – Malenfant (5-10, 185 lbs.) has shown significant promise early in his career at Ottawa. Joining the team in the winter, from Cégep de Thetford, Malenfant has been able to become comfortable with the offence and learn how to use his shifty skills running routes to creep up the depth chart.
OL Julian Iamundo – Iamundo (6-2, 300 lbs.) is a workhorse offensive lineman coming to the Gee-Gees from Dr. Frank J. Hayden S.S. The Burlington, Ont., product brings a gritty and aggressive playing style that the coaching staff hopes will shape the future of the team's offensive line for years to come.
REC Thjis Duineveld – Duineveld (6-4, 205 lbs.) is a large framed and polished receiver that will compete for playing time this season. He is coming to the program by way of the Kamloops Broncos of the BCFC. Last season, he led the Broncos with 517 receiving yards, averaging 14.4 per catch. Duineveld formerly redshirted for one season at UBC during their Vanier Cup winning season in 2015.
Key losses: Bryce Vieira (SB/RB), Matt Bruder (OL), Jason-Lee Jones (FB)
Number of returning starters: 10
Key returning players:
CB Cody Cranston was selected with the 66th pick in the 2019 CFL Draft. Cranston attended training camp and got playing time in the preseason with the Montreal Alouettes. Heading back to Ottawa for his final year, Cranston will look to continue to be one of the nation’s top cornerbacks before making the final jump back to Montreal next spring. Last season, he finished with 24 tackles, two forced fumbles, one interception, and three pass breakups.
S Luke Griese was the biggest standout performer for the Gee-Gees in 2018. Griese was named a Second Team OUA All-Star and earned team MVP after racking up 34 tackles, four interceptions, and two sacks last season. What was perhaps most impressive about Griese’s season, is that he accomplished it after having only dressed in five total games between 2015 and 2018. In one short season, the Newmarket, Ont., native instantly became a player to watch in the OUA.
LB Kyle Rodger’s presence was immediately felt after transferring from the Montréal Carabins. The Gatineau, Que., native led the Gee-Gees in tackles last season with 49.5 tackles and racked up two sacks, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery. Rodger was reunited with former Cegép de l'Outaouais teammate Thomas Carrier in the Gee-Gees linebacking corps, and the pair alongside Abed Hamidi, round out a trio of talented local products starting for the Garnet and Grey.
Defensive linemen Réshaan Davis and Tramayne Stephen form one of the most menacing duos of defensive linemen in the OUA. Davis, a 6-foot-4, 240-pound defensive end was sensational in 2018 despite missing the first two games of the season to injury. Racking up 16.5 tackles, 4 sacks, 5.5 tackles for loss, one forced fumble and one recovery, along with two pass deflections in six games proved why the Oshawa, Ont., native deserved his place at the 2019 U SPORTS East-West Bowl.
Meanwhile, the 6-foot-1, 305-pound Stephen wreaked havoc on opposing offenses, finishing with 18.5 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and four tackles for loss en route to earning a spot at the East-West Bowl in May. The Toronto native and former OUA All-Rookie will look to impress scouts ahead of next spring’s CFL Draft.
Key recruits or transfers:
DE Kevin Anderson – Anderson (6-4, 235 lbs.) comes to Ottawa from 2018 RSEQ Division 2 champions Cégep de Valleyfield. The Chateauguay, Que., native was named to the RSEQ All-Defensive Team, after leading the division in sacks with seven, to go along with 10 tackles for loss and 24.5 overall tackles last year.
DL Jacob Roussel – Roussel (6-0, 280 lbs.) also coming from Cégep de Valleyfield, joined the team in January and has developed extensively since arriving. Hailing from the National Capital Region in Val-des-Monts, Que., Roussel has the opportunity to be an impact maker close to home on the Gee-Gees defensive line.
DB Christopher Cyril – Cyril (5-10, 178 lbs.) has represented both Team Québec and Team Canada in recent years, proving why he is considered a top-tier recruit at defensive back. The Repentigny, Que. native finished with 23.5 tackles, one interception, and two pass breakups for Cégep de Saint-Jean in RSEQ Division 1 play.
DB Kevin Victome – Victome (6-0, 170 lbs.) earned recognition for his standout play as a part of the Football North Clarkson program. Playing prep football against teams on both sides of the border, the Ottawa native has been exposed to top talent at various levels and is now prepared for his next step with the Garnet and Grey.
Key losses: Jamie Harry (CB), Cody Baranyk (DL)
Key returning players: Campbell Fair (K), Loic Legendre (P), Kalem Beaver (RET)
Key recruits or transfers: N/A
Key losses: Jason-Lee Jones (LS), Jamie Harry (RET)
Name: Luke Griese
University: Ottawa
Hometown: Newmarket, Ont.
High school / Cegep: Huron Heights S.S.
Position: Safety
Academic program: Human Kinetics
Year of eligibility: 3
Height: 6-0
Weight: 180
Key stats from 2018: 34 tackles and four interceptions (3rd in OUA)
Awards & honours (since start of U SPORTS career): OUA Second Team All-Star (2018), Team MVP (2018)
PROFILE
Since coming to the University of Ottawa in 2015, Gee-Gees safety Luke Griese has been playing the long game. In 2018, four years into his career in garnet and grey, Griese became one of the team’s most reliable players in perhaps the strongest defensive backfield in the nation.
For his outstanding play, he was named an OUA Second Team All-Star, but a more impressive feat was how he even ended up there in the first place. Coming into last season’s training camp, he was not slated to start, having only dressed in five total games between 2015 and 2018. Roster movement and solid play pushed him up on the depth chart, where he finally seized his opportunity.
A total of three career tackles prior, turned into 34 tackles, four interceptions, two sacks and an All-Star nod after starting each game at safety on a nationally Top 5-ranked team that finished second in the OUA.
While he was not on the field in his early years, he spent his free time volunteering and building a place within his campus community.
In a leadership role with the Student-Athlete Council, he has worked to unite athletes across all sports. He has assisted in enhancing athlete engagement, worked to liaise with the athletic department on athlete issues, and contributed in the Gee-Gees High Performance team’s push to implement a TrueSport program.
For his outstanding efforts in the 2018 season, Griese was named team MVP at the Gee-Gees Athletic Banquet. Now for Griese, who began his career in the shadows, he will look to finish it firmly placed in the spotlight.
General Write-up
The 2019 season marks a new era for the Queen’s Football program as Steve Snyder takes over the reigns as head coach after the departure of longtime coach Pat Sheahan. After finishing with a 3-5 record and on the outside of the playoff picture, the Gaels will be looking to make the postseason under their new leadership in 2019.
The Gaels' rookie head coach Snyder achieved a successful run during his tenure as offensive coordinator with the Western Mustangs, assisting the program to two consecutive undefeated OUA seasons and a Vanier Cup title in 2017.
The key to the Gaels' success will rest on the ability to retool a young offensive core after the graduations of QB Nate Hobbs and receivers Chris Osei-Kusi and Matteo Del Brocco. With the quarterback job up for grabs, the competition in training camp has been fierce with a handful of young QBs vying for the first-string spot. The Gaels return talented skill position players on offence with running backs Jake Puskas and sophomore Rasheed Tucker, not to mention a top receiver target, one of the fastest in the OUA, in Ben Arhen. The offensive line will once again feature stalwarts Josh Mosely and the emerging talent Jacob Butler.
The Gaels boast a veteran defensive core, led up front by linemen Cam Lawson and linebacker Kurtis Schaefer, while being anchored by standout defensive backs Ejaz Casuer, Zackary Kealey, and Oliver MacKenzie all looking to wreak havoc on opposing offensives. The Gaels return all but one starter from 2018.
“We have to integrate our new players quickly, we have to establish our brand of football and we have to become the most respected team on campus and in the community,” said Gaels head coach Steve Snyder. “If we can get 12 guys on the same page, aligned properly and playing right through the whistle then we’ll be fine. We’re going to become better every day that’s the goal.”
Head Coach: (Steve Snyder)
OFFENCE
Number of returning starters: 7
Key returning players:
RB Jake Puskas enters his fourth season with the Gaels. He recorded 338 yards on 59 carries for five touchdowns in 2018 and played in the 2019 U SPORTS East-West Bowl. Puskas had a breakout season in 2017 with 727 yards on 112 carries, and will look to thrive under Coach Snyder’s new offence.
RB Rasheed Tucker is an emerging talent entering his second season with the Gaels. Last season, Tucker had the third most carries behind only Puskas and quarterback Nate Hobbs. Tucker is a dynamic, speedy runner who flashed his potential in his rookie season.
REC Ben Arhen provides the Gaels with speed and great hands as a top option downfield. In 2018, he was third in receptions, touchdowns and yards behind graduating players Matteo Del Brocco and Chris Osei-Kusi.
Key recruits or transfers: Evan Floren (OL), Jaden Bailey (RB)
Key losses: Nate Hobbs (QB), Matteo Del Brocco (REC), Chris Osei-Kusi (REC), Tim Vanheuvelen (OL)
Number of Returning starters: 12
Key returning players:
DL Cam Lawson returns for his third season with the Gaels. Lawson used his size and strength to register 32 tackles and four sacks, the second-highest total last season. For his efforts, Lawson earned an OUA second-team All-Star nod and played in the 2019 East-West Bowl.
LB Kurtis Schaefer enters his fifth and final season with the Gaels in 2019. Last season, Schaefer led all Gaels linebackers in 2018 with a career-high 43.5 tackles.
DB Ejaz Casuer returns for his final season with the Queen’s Gaels. Causer provides a key veteran presence alongside fellow fifth-year Zackary Kealey to lead the Gaels secondary. In 2018, Causer had 30.5 tackles and also tallied three pass breakups and one interception.
DB Zackary Kealey had a breakout season in 2018, leading the Gaels with 52 tackles (sixth in the OUA) and three (second in the OUA) forced fumbles. Look for the veteran Kealey to once again play an integral role in the Gaels secondary, which could be one of the best in the conference.
Key recruits or transfers: Ethan Martin (DB), Andrew Mullins-Grant (DL)
Key losses: Spencer Giffin (LB), Trevor McGarrity (DL)
Key returning players:
K/P Nick Liberatore returns for his fourth season as a Gael. Liberartore was an OUA Second Team All-Star last season, converting 14/22 field goals and maintained his career 100 per cent PAT conversion record going 25-25 last season.
Key recruits or transfers: Ben Hadley (K/P)
Name: Benjamin Arhen
University: Queen’s
Hometown: Brampton, Ont.
High school / Cegep: Bramalea SS
Position: Receiver
Academic program: Arts & Science
Year of eligibility: 3
Height: 6’0
Weight: 176
Key stats from 2018: 19 receptions for 397 yards (3rd on team)
PROFILE
Ben Arhen is on the verge of a breakthrough season for the Queen’s Gaels. With the departures of leading receivers Matteo Del Brocco and Chris Osei-Kusi, Arhen will be looked upon as a key option in the Gaels' passing attack.
With new head coach Steve Snyder at the helm, Arhen should capitalize on the hiring of Western’s former offensive coordinator. Snyder schemed a Mustangs side that led the OUA in scoring, points per game, and passing yards per attempt for the past four seasons.
“What I’m mostly looking forward to most from my team this season is a hardworking team, (and) a great environment to work in this season, said Gaels receiver Ben Arhen. “I’m really, really excited to do what we can do to win a championship.”
With a lot up in the air offensively for the Gaels passing attack, having a speedy veteran in Arhen will help the Gaels adjust early in the season.
General Write-Up:
Under the direction of second-year head coach Greg Marshall, the Varsity Blues are a young and determined team, looking to improve upon last season’s results.
Toronto’s defence will be bolstered by five returning veterans: defensive linemen Malcolm Campbell and Jackson Mayer, linebackers Damoy Robinson and Matt Renaud and defensive back Jordan Gillespie.
On offence, the Blues return quarterback Clay Sequiera and a deep receiving corps, led by third-year standouts Will Corby and Daniel Diodati, as well as fourth-year veteran Nick Stadnyk. Toronto’s running game will see the likes of sophomores Maxwell Gyimah and Adam Williams split duties, while the Blues also return their entire offensive line in 2019.
Quote from head coach: Greg Marshall (2nd Season)
“Our young guys have had an extra year in the weight room. We are more mature and stronger and physically ready for the challenges that we face. We expect to win. We are not going out there hoping and wishing. We have to go out and play at a high level and execute. We need to do the things we are capable of doing and do them well.”
Head Coach: Greg Marshall (2nd Season)
Number of returning starters: 10
Key returning players:
QB Clay Sequeira returns for his fourth season in the Blue and White. Sequeira started in Toronto’s first four regular season games in 2018 before being sidelined due to injury. He represented U of T at the 2019 U SPORTS East-West Bowl and attended the Toronto Argonauts training camp as a part of the CFL QB internship program.
WR Will Corby will look to lead Toronto’s receiving corps for the third straight year. Corby ranked fifth in the OUA, averaging five catches and 83.6 yards per game in 2018.
WR Daniel Diodati had a breakout 2018 season. The Etobicoke, Ont., native ranked second on the Blues and 10th in the province with 4.6 receptions per game.
Key recruits or transfers:
QB Kinsale Philip joins the Blues from New Westminster S.S., where he led his team to the 2017 AAA British Columbia championship title and a second-place finish in 2018.
WR Nigel LeGood joins his brother, Grant, on Toronto’s receiving corps. The Kingston, Ont., native was named the most valuable player on the LaSalle S.S., football team in 2019.
Key losses:
None
Number of returning starters: 7
Key returning players:
DL Malcolm Campbell led the Blues and ranked 10th in the OUA with 45.5 tackles, while also sitting third in the province with six sacks in 2018. He was selected in the eighth round, 65th overall by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the 2019 CFL draft.
LB Damoy Robinson is back for his fifth year in the Blue and White. The 6-foot-0, 208-pound native of Brampton, Ont., recorded 42.5 tackles in eight games last season, including a season-high 11 vs. York on Oct. 20.
DB Jordan Gillespie also returns for his fifth and final season with the Blues. The Whitby, Ont., native notched 38.5 tackles, one sack and six breakups in 2018.
Key recruits or transfers:
DL James Stockwood stands at 6-foot-6, 325-pounds. He joins the Blues from St. Stephen’s College in his hometown of Bowmanville, Ont., where he was named the most valuable player and best defensive lineman.
LB Jeremy Sinclair stands at 6-foot-3, 215-pounds. He comes to the Blues from Windsor S.S. in Vancouver, where he earned British Columbia provincial All-Star status and was named the Defensive Player of the Year at the 2018 Canada Cup.
Key losses:
DB Nick Hallett
LB Lamar Foyle
DL Carter Gladman
Key returning players:
PR Daniel Diodati ranked fourth in the OUA with 35 punt returns for 341 yards, including a season-long 99-yard return for a touchdown, which earned him OUA and U SPORTS special teams player of the week honours.
K/P Ethan Shafer is back for his fourth season with the Blues. He averaged 34.9 yards per punt and went 6-for-9 on field goal attempts in 2018.
Key recruits or transfers: None
Key losses: None
Name: Malcolm Campbell
University: Toronto
Hometown: Mississauga, Ont.
High school / Cegep: Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School
Position: Defensive Line
Academic program: Geographical Information Systems
Year of eligibility: 4
Height: 6-3
Weight: 240
Key stats from 2018: Dressed and started in all eight games. Ranked second on the Blues and 10th in the OUA with 45.5 tackles. Led the Blues and ranked third in the OUA with six sacks. Led the OUA with 12 tackles for loss also recorded one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and two breakups. Had a career-high 12.5 tackles against Windsor on Sept 29.
Awards & honours (since start of U SPORTS career): Was selected in the eighth round, 65th overall by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the 2019 CFL Draft.
General Write-Up:
Twelve seconds. That’s all it took to erase 16 years of suffering.
On Sept. 15 of last year, the Warriors walked into University Stadium and scored 17 fourth-quarter points to defeat crosstown rivals Laurier in an instant classic.
OUA MVP and First-Team all-star Tre Ford took a snap from his own 22-yard line, down 32-27 late in the fourth, and sent a rocket down field to Tyler Ternowski who did the rest with his legs in a play that took 12 seconds - stunning the Golden Hawk faithful with the 34-32 victory. The win was Waterloo’s first over the Hawks since 2002, and as fate would have it, would end up being the victory needed to win the tiebreaker over Laurier to clinch their first playoff berth since 2003.
The Warriors will look to continue that momentum going into 2019 with most of their core intact and some key recruits joining the squad.
Waterloo’s season kicks off on Sunday, Aug. 25 at 7 p.m. ET against Toronto on Warrior Field, while many will have Thursday, Oct. 10 circled on their calendar, when the Battle of Waterloo hits Warrior Field at 7 p.m ET.
Quote from head coach: Chris Bertoia
“It’s been a total team effort from top to bottom to turn this program around.From the players to the coaching staff, everyone has bought in to have only positive expectations and work our tails off each and every day. From Day 1 of taking over this program, the respect has just never been here for the Warriors. We have always been the have-nots. Not anymore - we have shown the last two seasons we can compete with and defeat all OUA football programs and you can see it in our player’s eyes before they enter the field. They expect to win and that’s the culture we have built and continue to preach.”
Head Coach: Chris Bertoia
Number of returning starters: 12
Key returning players:
Tre Ford (QB) returns for his third season after earning Rookie of the Year and MVP honours in his first two. Ford became the fourth Warrior to win the OUA MVP title after putting up eye-popping numbers in 2018, leading the OUA in touchdown passes (27), passing yards (2822), and completion percentage (74.1 per cent, which is a new OUA single-season record).
Tyler Tenowski (WR) returns for his fourth season after putting the league on notice that he is one of the elite pass catchers in the country. Ternowski, led the country in passing yards (144.9 YPG) by more than 40 yards per contest while also setting a new OUA single-season touchdown record with 14. He was named a First Team All-Canadian last season.
Gordon Lam (WR) enters his third season after ranking second in the league with nearly 102 yards per game and reeled in five of Ford’s touchdown passes last year. Lam was named a Second Team All-Canadian last season.
Key losses:
Jesse Gibbon – OL
Ben Koczwara - OL
Mitch Kernick – WR
Richmond Nketiah – WR
Lucas McConnell - QB
Number of returning starters: 10
Key returning players:
Kurtis Gray (LB) enters his fourth year after another big campaign where he led the team in tackles with 42.5.
Michael Reid (LB) also enters his fourth year and is expected to have a big season for the Warriors. He had 35 tackles in 2018.
A pair of Defensive Back’s Tyrell Ford (3rd year) and Lautaro Frecha (5th year) will play key roles in Waterloo’s backfield again this season.
Key recruits or transfers:
Jethro Oleko – LB
Trevon Halstead – DL
Tyson Hergott - DL
Key losses: Lucas Merlin - DB
Name: Tre Ford
University: Waterloo
Hometown: Niagara Falls, Ont.
High school / Cegep: A.N. Myer High School
Position: Quarterback
Academic program: Rec & Leisure
Year of eligibility: 3
Height: 6-1
Weight: 185 lbs
Key stats from 2018: First in U SPORTS in touchdown passed with 27. Second in passing yards per game with 352.8
Awards & honours (since start of U SPORTS career): 2018 OUA MVP, 2017 OUA/U SPORTS Rookie of the Year
PROFILE
Tre Ford returns for his third season after earning Rookie of the Year and MVP honours in his first two. Ford became the fourth Warrior to win the OUA MVP title after putting up eye-popping numbers in 2018, leading the OUA in touchdown passes (27), passing yards (2822), and completion percentage (74.1 per cent, which is a new OUA single-season record). He also threw the fewest interceptions amongst all qualified passers (two), while rushing for 641 yards - good for sixth in the OUA.
General Write-Up:
The Mustangs are coming off another extremely successful 2018 campaign. The team rolled through the regular season undefeated, won the Yates Cup as OUA Champions and then won the Mitchell Bowl over Saskatchewan and made it back to the Vanier Cup for a second year. The result wasn’t the way the team had hoped but those returning for 2019 are hungrier than ever to get back on the field to try and get back there again.
As much as some might think the Mustangs only have their sights set on getting back to Laval in November, head coach Greg Marshall continues to urge his players to only focus on the next opponent and challenge that is ahead.
With Marshalls guidance, some key returning players and some exciting new additions the 2019 season should be a very exciting one.
Head Coach: Greg Marshall
Key returning players:
Brett Ellerman
Chris Merchant
Dylan Giffen
Trey Humes
Key recruits or transfers:
Jack Middleton
Jonathan Femi-Cole
Matt Adams
Key losses:
Alex Taylor
Harry McMaster
Cedric Joseph
Key returning players:
Andrew Thurston
Austin Fordham-Miller
Bleska Kambamba
Daniel Valente Jr.
Key recruits or transfers:
Craig Coleman
John Pantazopoulos
Kojo Odoom
Key losses:
Mackenzie Ferguson
Jimmy Hawley
Key returning players:
Marc Liegghio
Name: Trey Humes
University: Western
Hometown: Brampton, Ont.
High school / Cegep: The Hill School (PA)
Position: Running Back
Academic program: King’s College
Year of eligibility: 4
Height: 5-9
Weight: 195
Key stats from 2018: 43 rushes in 8 regular season games for 298 yards
Awards & honours (since start of U SPORTS career): N/A
PROFILE
After spending much of the last few years working alongside standouts Alex Taylor and Cedric Joseph, it is now Humes' time to shine for the Mustangs ground game.
The Ajax, Ont., native has impressed every time he has stepped on the field.
He had 298 yards in a limited role last year averaging 6.9 yards per carry and added two TDs in 2018.
Humes will see a big boost in those numbers in 2019 with an increased role.
General Write-Up:
After a long, eventful offseason, the Lancers are ready to kick off the Circelli era in Windsor. After an offseason of adjusting, installing, a coach’s clinic and players camp, the blue and gold are excited to finally strap on the pads and get to work.
Despite the excitement and anticipation for the home opener, the Lancers have to replace stalwarts Drew Dejarlais, Courtney Ellis, Evan Martin and Marcus Kentner. On a positive note, the Lancers have two transfer students to be excited about. Joining the Lancers is wide receiver Chris Osei-Kusi, and defensive lineman Joel Stenning from Guelph.
The Lancers return Dan Metcalfe, one of the best linebackers in the country and anchor of the blue and gold defence. Heading into his second year as defensive coordinator, Jesse Alexander’s unit improved in his first year but still have some work to do. With Metcalfe leading the way there will be no doubt new stats will be recorded on defense in the Lancer record books.
Offensively, the Lancers return a slew of their skill players including quarterback Sam Girard, running back Marvin Gaynor and wide receiver Tristan Carter. They all return with hopes of a far more effective offense. The success will likely rest on the shoulders of CJ Church and the rest of the offensive line, something head coach JP Circelli has mentioned, so expect to see an improved unit this season.
Quote from head coach: JP Circelli
“We look forward to the opportunity to start the season with a new culture."
Head Coach: JP Circelli
Number of returning starters: 6
Key returning players:
QB Sam Girard returns for his fourth season with the blue and gold. Girard started seven games in 2018, completing 130 of 230 attempts (56.5 per cent) for 1650 yards and 13 touchdowns to just four interceptions. Girard’s 13 touchdowns were fifth best in the OUA.
WR Tristan Carter. Appeared in eight games in 2018 making 40 catches (T5th in the OUA) for 406 yards and four touchdown
RB Marvin Gaynor played seven games with the Lancers in 2018 and rushed for 259 yards on 58 attempts.
Key recruits or transfers:
WR Chris Osei-Kusi transfers to Windsor from Queen’s. He played four years at Queen’s hauling in 126 catches for 1862 yards and eight touchdown grabs in his Gaels career and was named an OUA All-Star in 2017.
WR Carson Ouelette from Wilfrid Laurier
OL Jackson Morkin
WR Finn Bradbrooke
Key losses:
OL Drew Desjarlais. Dejarlais made Lancer history over the summer as the highest Lancer ever drafted, going fourth overall in the CFL Draft and earning multiple NFL camp invites.
Number of returning starters: 8
Key returning players:
LB Dan Metcalfe returns for a fourth season. Metcalfe played in all eight games for the Lancers last year and finished third overall in the OUA in tackles with 60.
DB Dan Stirling appeared in eight games and made 28 tackles, a forced fumble and broke up three passes.
DL Zack Benson appeared in eight games and recorded 10.5 tackles.
Key recruits or transfers:
DL Joel Stenning from Guelph
DB Aden Al-Kinani from Wilfrid Laurier
DB Weston Simpson
LB Liam Cumarasamy
Key losses:
DB Evan Martin. Appeared in 8 games in 2018 making 21 tackles, an interception and a pass breakup. Martin also returned three kickoffs for 53 yards (17.7 average).
DL Courtney Ellis. Played 7 games in 2018 and finished with 15.5 total tackles.
Key returning players:
Third-year Matthew James had 16 kick returns for 248 yards, and 11 punt returns for 81 yards.
Key losses:
K Clark Green. Green became the Lancer all-time record holder in most field goals in a game with six in 2018 against the Toronto Varsity Blues.
Name: Dan Metcalfe
University: Windsor
Hometown: Kingsville, Ont.
High school / Cegep: Cardinal Carter
Position: Defensive End
Academic program: Criminology
Year of eligibility: 4
Height: 6-0
Weight: 205
Key stats from 2018: Third overall in the OUA in tackles with 60 in eight games played.
PROFILE
As one of the top linebackers in the league, Metcalfe is a force to be reckoned with on the field and will lead the Lancer defense in 2019. He finished third overall in total tackles in the OUA in 2018 with 60, including two sacks, an interception and five forced fumbles.
General Write-Up:
The Lions took a step forward in 2018 with a 3-5 record and close contests against nationally-ranked opponents, falling just short of the top six in the OUA and a playoff spot. That improvement has provided additional motivation to a veteran squad that is on the precipice of a big breakout.
The Lions lost some key players but still return top-end talent at every position on the field. What has long been an offence-dominated team is shifting to one that is more defensive minded. Last year, the defence gave up 120 fewer yards per game than in 2017 and nine starters return - among them OUA All-Star defensive end Rossini Sandjong-Djabome and a pair of OUA All-Rookie Team members in Kwadwo Boahen and Matt Dean. Head coach Warren Craney’s background is as a defensive coordinator and with the talent he now has on that side of the ball, opposing offences will be hard-pressed to put up points.
The offence still remains solid and will flow through fifth-year quarterback Brett Hunchak. Last year’s squad put up the most points per game in his four years and the Lions will be looking to take advantage of his veteran presence to put up even more this season. Even with the absence of his younger brother Colton, now with the Calgary Stampeders, he will have no shortage of weapons all over the field. The lost talent from last season has been replenished with the best recruiting class in years, a group that is full of highly-regarded receivers and offensive linemen.
The Lions have been on the verge of the playoffs for many years and, with the players slated to line up on both sides of the ball, have the pieces to contend for a postseason berth this year.
Quote from head coach: Warren Craney
“This is the most talented football team I’ve seen here, I could argue it’s the most talented football team York has ever seen. We feel we are at a point in our program build where we can compete with anybody and it’s just taking that next step. The biggest thing to get there is belief. They have the talent already and they know how good they are. Now it’s about executing and trusting in our tremendous coaching staff.”
Head Coach: Warren Craney
Number of returning starters: 7
Key returning players:
OL Chavaughn Barrett (Brantford, Ont.) – Has played in 11 games over two seasons on the offensive line, including seven last year at both guard and tackle. He will be the leader of a young offensive line this season.
QB Brett Hunchak (Calgary) – Returns for his fifth and final season with the Lions. He holds every major career statistical record at York, including passing yards, passing touchdowns, attempts and completions. He has ranked among the OUA’s quarterback leaders throughout his career, including last season when he was first in completions (201), second in attempts (296), fourth in passing yards (2252) and completion percentage (67.9) and sixth in touchdown passes (11). Last year he also had 264 rushing yards and two touchdowns on the ground.
RB Kayden Johnson (Kerrobert, Sask.) – Had a career-high 94 rushes and four touchdowns to go along with 415 yards last season and is 10th all-time on York’s career rushing list with 1174 yards. The dual-sport athlete was York’s male athlete of the year in 2018 after playing all eight games for the football team and then winning OUA and U SPORTS gold medals in the 60m hurdles as a member of the track and field team. He also participated in the 2019 U SPORTS East-West Bowl.
REC Alex Daley (Mississauga, Ont.) – Is coming off a career year in which he had 28 receptions, 332 receiving yards and one touchdown. He will be a favourite target this year after the departure of receiving leader Colton Hunchak, who is now with the CFL’s Calgary Stampeders.
Key recruits or transfers:
OL Evan Anseeuw (Walsingham, Ont.) – A big recruit for the offensive line, he starred for Holy Trinity in high school and twice earned offensive Player of the Year awards. He also played in the inaugural West vs. East Canada Bowl for Grade 10 and 11 players.
REC Retsen Daley (Brampton, Ont.) – The younger brother of Alex, Daley is a highly-regarded offensive prospect who can use his size to his advantage. He played some of his high school football at St. Francis in Athol Springs, N.Y., and was a member of the Brampton Bulldogs in the OFC.
OL Logan Scott (Centreville, N.S.) – Another stud offensive lineman recruit from small-town Nova Scotia to the big city. He helped Northeast Kings win three provincial high school titles in four years and earned league all-star honours in his final season. He also represented Nova Scotia at the 2018 Canada Cup.
Key losses:
OL Anthony Dinardo, REC Colton Hunchak, REC Nikola Kalinic
Number of returning starters: 9
Key returning players:
DL Kwadwo Boahen (Calgary) – Played in seven games as a first-year defensive lineman and earned a place on the OUA All-Rookie team after recording nine tackles and one half sack. He was honoured as the team’s Rookie of the Year after the season.
LB Damian Jamieson (Oakville, Ont.) – Coming off a career-year in which he ranked second on the team with 39.5 tackles, including four for a loss, while also adding two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and a pair of blocked kicks. He participated in the 2019 East-West Bowl.
DB Jacob Janke (Leduc, Alta.) – Returned last year after an injury-plagued 2017 and led the team in total tackles (47.5), ranking ninth in the OUA and earning the team’s defensive MVP trophy. He was selected in the fourth round (35th overall) by the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the 2019 CFL Draft and spent training camp with them before returning to the Lions for his final season.
DE Rossini Sandjong-Djabome (Longueuil, Que.) – Earned OUA First Team All-Star honours for the first time last year - the third time he has been recognized by the conference, after another strong season on the defensive line. He ranked fourth in the OUA fourth with nine tackles for loss and seventh with four sacks and also had 24 tackles and two pass break-ups, earning the team’s Lineman of the Year award.
Key recruits or transfers:
LB Braden Hart (Napanee, Ont.) – A standout linebacker who played for the Napanee Golden Hawks in high school as well as the Kingston Grenadiers (OVFL). He played for Team Ontario at the 2018 Canada Cup, earning All-star honours, and also represented Canada at the 2019 International Bowl in Texas.
DL James Kypreos (Aurora, Ont.) – Joins a young defensive line and will make an immediate impact. He played for the Villanova College Knights in high school and club football with the York Region Lions in the OVFL. In 2016 he participated in the International Bowl series in Texas as a member of the U17 Ontario team.
Key losses:
DB Brett Colangelo, DB Malik Langston, DB Ian Lawrence
Key returning players:
REC Alex Daley (Mississauga, Ont.) – Last year he ranked among the OUA’s top six in kick return yards (462), punt return yards (219) and all-purpose yards (1013). In 2016 he had a breakout campaign as a return specialist, leading the OUA in kick return yards (656) and tying for seventh in punt return yards (230).
K/P Dante Mastrogiuseppe (London, Ont.) – The team’s starting kicker has not missed a game in two seasons and has become one of the OUA’s top kickers. Last year he ranked fourth in punting average (39.4), a York record, while converting 11 of 15 field goals and 13 of 14 extra points.
REC Kadeem Hemmings (Mississauga, Ont.) – In 2017, he was the team’s main return man and led the OUA in kick returns (30) and kick return yards (640) and scored one touchdown, a 96-yard run against Laurier. He was also seventh in punt returns (27) and 10th in punt return yards (233).
Key recruits or transfers:
REC Jaxon Hume (Edmonton) – The talented receiver will also be a return specialist for the Lions this year. He played high school football at Harry Ainlay in Alberta and was twice named a First Team All-Canadian (2017 and 2018) in addition to the Carr League MVP in his final season.
Key losses:
REC Nikola Kalinic
Name: Rossini Sandjong-Djabome
University: York Lions
Hometown: Longueuil, Que.
High school / Cegep: CEGEP Edouard-Montpetit
Position: Defensive End
Academic program: Business Economics
Year of eligibility: 4
Height: 6-2
Weight: 235
Key stats from 2018: 9 tackles for loss (4th in OUA), 4 sacks (7th in OUA), 24 total tackles
Awards & honours (since start of U SPORTS career): Three-time OUA all-star
PROFILE
Rossini Sandjong-Djabome is a defensive leader for the York Lions football team and has been one of the most dominant defensive ends in the OUA since he made his debut in 2016.
The fourth-year product from Longueuil, Que., has started all but one game in his three seasons with the Lions after his perfect streak came to an end last year because of injury. He specializes in getting to the quarterback quickly and has 13 sacks, for a total loss of 111 yards, in 23 games as part of 28 tackles for a loss of 148 yards. His career stat line also includes 91 tackles (74 solo, 34 assisted), one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries.
Sandjong-Djabome’s play has not gone unnoticed across the OUA. He earned a place on the OUA All-Rookie Team in his first year, received a Second Team All-Star selection as a sophomore and last season was named a conference First Team All-Star for the first time. He’s also picked up hardware at the York team banquet, receiving the Mike Benevides Lineman of the Year Award last season and the Nobby Wirkowski Defensive MVP Trophy in 2017.
In addition to his tremendous play on the field, Sandjong-Djabome is also a bonafide leader off of it. His infectious smile is well-known across all varsity programs and his French-speaking background has made him a mentor to other young Quebec players who have signed with York in the last couple of years.
Recently, the business and society student has expanded his reach into the local community. Along with three teammates, he is a co-founder of Tiny Strides - a non-profit organization that enables disadvantaged youth to realize their full potential within society and sport by providing them with the opportunity to develop healthy fitness habits, learn life-long skills, connect with mentors and utilize sport to acquire education.
Sandjong-Djabome is scheduled to graduate with a degree in business and society after this season and will also continue to be a major factor for a football team that has big expectations and even loftier goals this year.
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