Bishop’s ‘made me feel appreciated and welcomed’

Bishop’s adds an out-of-province commit to their 2018 class.

Lineman Gavin Grewal from Frank Hurt Secondary School understands the importance of first impressions and Bishop’s Gaiters made sure they started things off on the right foot.

“When I first received the call from Coach Justin I remember him being quite friendly and approachable. Growing up, I was always taught that first impressions matter most, and Coach Justin was everything I looked for in a coach,” Grewal said.

“Not only did the team fly me to Bishop’s University, but (they) also introduced me to the whole team, which made me feel appreciated and welcomed. I felt as if this was where I belonged and where I was supposed to go next for my football career,” he added.

During the recruitment process, Grewal said the coaches were wonderful and never pushed him to join the team. “They made me feel as if I was already a part of the team,” he said. “Coach Justin has been very helpful throughout the process. This university takes pride in its players and I noticed that when I met the coaching staff and I would be honoured to be mentored by them. This is why I chose to become a Bishop Gaiter.”

Thinking about a life post-football. Grewal’s goal is to join the RCMP. He said that he believes he must understand and learn the history and laws of Canada beforehand, therefore he is interested in taking criminology and other courses to broaden his horizons.

Grewal, who is 6’2, 315lbs, participated in Langley community football for about six years. He spent one year playing North Surrey Minor Football and two years with the Frank Hurt Hornets (BCSSFA). He was a defensive captain on the Hornets for a season. He was also the Hornets’ ‘best lineman of the year’ for the 2017 season and was named as Team BC’s ‘best defensive lineman’ at the ABC Border Bowl. He also participated in the 2017 Fox 40 Prospect Challenge.

Soon to make a set of new brothers, Grewal will never forget all those who have so far shared his journey with him. “I feel thankful for all the people who have struggled with me and bettered me and helped me accomplish the goals today,” he said. “I would have never thought when I first touched the football that it would lead me on this amazing journey and create mentorships, friendships and a community that I feel welcomed in.”

It’s official.@BishopsGaiters @Koutsonikas pic.twitter.com/ufpFMeaXES

— Gavin Grewal (@grewalgavin49) June 2, 2018