CFC#1 Hubbard: “I just remember people telling me I wasn’t that good…I’m glad I proved the doubters wrong!”

Just over a week ago, Chuba Hubbard realized two of the biggest dreams in his gridiron career.

On Sunday, the 6’1, 190 pound running back from Sherwood Park, Alberta ended his recruitment process by announcing on social media that he verbally committed to NCAA Division 1 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) school, Oklahoma State Cowboys.

For his part, there was never a doubt where Hubbard wanted to go for the next chapter of his gridiron career.  Equally, the Cowboys actively reached out to the offensive star early in his recruitment process.

“Oklahoma State was my number 1 school; me and Coach [Marcus] Arroyo  (runinng back coach) had a great relationship,” recalled the Alberta running back “Once he came down to see me it just impacted my decision, I liked how it all felt.”

“It felt right, and the best school for me right now. So I saw that one RB signed there; he’s a great back, power runner and great blocker. So I prayed and after a long discussion I decided to commit!”

One day later, CanadaFootballChat.com unveiled that Hubbard was the top ranked prospect in the nation in the first edition of the  #CFC100 CLASS 2017 RANKINGS.

Hubbard has had his sights set on the top spot of the rankings for quite some time. Ultimately, he was fuelled, yet inspired to earn the top spot by the naysayers and critics who doubted his abiltiies.

“I’ll be honest, it was something I’ve thought about a lot because I just remember people telling me I wasn’t that good and that I wasn’t even the best in Alberta,” reflected the CFC#1 ranked Hubbard.  “That was my motivation!”

“Actions speak louder then words, so in the end I’m glad I proved the doubters wrong! It was a unreal feeling, and I couldn’t of done it without my parents,coaches and teammates! I’m blessed!”

The running back really came into his own when he suited up for the Bev Facey Falcons of the Alberta Schools Athletic Association (ASAA).  During the regular season in 2015, Hubbard racked up 2243 rushing yards on 112 carries and scored 27 touchdowns.  Overall, he amassed 3213 rushing yards on 173 carries during both the regular season and postseason.

During his career, Hubbard has received several honours including Team, Offensive and Special Teams MVP as well as Outstanding Running Back Award. Moreover, he also played for the Sherwood Park Rams.

As he was making his case in Alberta, many schools south of the border took notice.  Beginning from February 19th up until his verbal commitment over a week ago, Hubbard received 24 NCAA Division 1 offers.

Some of the teams that offered the CFC#1 included Missouri Tigers, University of Central Florida Knights, University of Buffalo Bulls, University of Texas at San Antoinio (UTSA) Roadrunners, Pittsburgh Panthers,California Golden Bears, Oregon Ducks, Texas Christian University (TCU) Horned Frogs, Hawaii Rainbow Warriors, Oklahoma Sooners, Iowa State Cyclones, Texas A&M Aggies, North Carolina Tar Heels, Colorado Buffaloes, Miami Hurricanes, Auburn Tigers, Rutgers Scarlet Knights, Colorado State Rams, Tennessee Vols, Syracuse Orange, Washington State Cougars and Bowling Green Falcons.

However, it was the Cowboys who stole his interest in the end.  Now that his decision has been made, there is a sense of ease for Hubbard.

“There is definitely is a sense of relief,” said the CFC#1.  “My mom is still always going off but not as much so I’m happy about that!”

Hubbard’s focus will now turn to the coming months and weeks before NCAA National Signing Day as he is determined to achieve a major goal with the Falcons.

“This year is going to be a big year,” offered the Alberta running back.  ” I am looking to finish my high school career on top and with a ring on my finger and my teammates.”

As for his new gridiron home, Hubbard is escatic about the future that lies ahead not just for the Cowboys football program, but also the team’s offence.  Ultimately, he hopes to contribute immediately to their success on the field.

“They got that one RB commit; I really thought I’d be able to make a big impact,” assessed Hubbard, who joins fellow Canadians Amen Ogbongbemiga and Shane RIchards who are also with the team.   “They signed a huge OL group this year and some other great players!”

“Oklahoma State is going to be a team people are going to be scared of these upcoming years and I’m excited to be apart of it!”

While the CFC#1 ranked player feels fortunate and grateful of all the support and encouragement he’s received throughout his career, there are two special individuals he credits for making his dream a reality.

“I’d like to thank everyone;  there is a million people I can thank as so many people have helped me get to where I am today,” expressed Hubbard.  “But out of everyone,  I owe it to my mom and my dad!”

“I’m blessed!”

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