CFC TOP 100: The towering “2”

Two CIS bound players generate biggest CFC TOP 100  buzz

With the recent release of the CFC TOP 100, two CIS bound players made the biggest buzz on the list.

In the last CFC TOP 100, both Hugo Henderson and George Saloum were not ranked.

After Monday’s release of CFC TOP 100, both players find themselves not only in the rankings, but in the top 25.

Saloum committed to the Ravens in late November while Henderson signed with the Carabins last month.  Both recruits enjoyed tremendous campaigns in their respective high school/CEGEP programs in the fall.

GEORGE SALOUM:

The 6’4, 260 pound defensive lineman from Calgary, Alberta played high school football for Bishop O’Byrne Bobcats of Alberta Schools Athletic Association (ASAA).  This past season, he led the team in sacks and also served as defensive captain.

Saloum was caught off guard when he learned of the news that he has made the CFC TOP 100.

“I’m actually completely surprised I didn’t think I was that known around,” said Saloum.  “I’m really grateful and this just shows how hard work pays off.”

Ultimately, there are two reasons factors Saloum credits for being able to achieve this honour.

“I think it is just having a passion for the game and wanting go somewhere in the game,” expressed the Ravens recruit.

Ravens Head Coach Steve Sumarah is not surprised that Saloum earned this prestigious national honour in spite of overcoming adversity in the past year.

“George is a big athletic defensive lineman who would have played for Team Alberta except he was hurt,” commented Sumarah.   “He was dominant and considered one if the top lineman in Alberta this past high school season.”

“He is aggressive and fast and most importantly makes plays on the football field.  I believe George is worthy of a CFC TOP 100 listing as there are very players with his size and ability.”

Furthermore, Sumarah added that having a player ranked in the CFC TOP 100 solidifies the strength of a CIS recruiting class.  Case and point with the Ravens.

“From the Ravens standpoint, it just shows that out recruiting is national and we do an exceptional job of identifying the top players in the country,” said Sumarah.

With this being the FINAL CFC TOP 100 for Class 2014, Saloum offers advice for those players trying to get ranked for 2015.

“I think the key is doing off season work and taking football extremely serious,” offered Saloum.  “You only have so much time and it’s important to not take it for granted.”

HUGO HENDERSON:

The 6’5, 215 pound quarterback from Montreal, Quebec recently completed a successful CEGEP campaign with Division 1 team Vieux-Montreal Spartiates.  In 2013, he had 165 completions in 256 attempts, a league leading 2,257 yards, 23 touchdowns, 5 interceptions, 759 yards on 111 carries and 13 touchdowns.

For his exceptional play on the field, the CFC TOP 100 ranked player was named Division 1 MVP of the Year.  Also, Henderson was selected as a league First-Team All-Star at the pivot position.

Overall, the Quebec quarterback is appreciative of the honour of being a CFC TOP 100 ranked player.

“I am very thankful and happy that all the hard work that I have put for being there has finally been rewarded,” expressed Henderson.

As for players looking to get ranked in future years, Henderson offers up some good advice.

“You can’t compare yourself to other players, you have to compare yourself to yourself,” said Henderson.  “You are the only person that knows your limits so don’t deceive them!”

“Improve yourself everyday by doing your best in everything you do. Don’t waste reps, because if you are wasting it, you’re wasting your time!  Take the opportunities when they are in front of you.  No excuses.   Be resilient in adversity and humble in success. It’s the way you defeat adversity that will define you as a person and as a football player.  Last but not least, have fun doing the thing you love. If you are not having fun, it’s maybe not the right thing for you!”

(twitter: http://twitter.com/vohra_ameeta)