“‘Family-like’ atmosphere” draws WR Hill to the Guelph Gryphons

The wide receiver position is one of the most important positions in football, as many big plays occur when receivers make game-changing catches. That’s the main reason why Ethan Hill plays that particular position.

“I love playing receiver, simply because I love making big plays,” he said. “There’s nothing more exciting than making a big catch or scoring a clutch touchdown late in the game. I think my edge comes from my shiftiness. I focus on getting in and out of my breaks as quickly as possible to gain separation from the defender.”

Ethan has dedicated a lot of his time to football, as he’s been scoring touchdowns against opposing defences for eight years. He has suited up for the York Simcoe Bucs, Villanova Knights and the Kingdom Force 7v7 team at the Kingdom Force Football Academy. His hard work has paid off in other ways, too, as he’s won Offensive MVP five times and Most Dedicated Player once.

There was a special moment for him when he played in a high-level tournament in the States.

“My most memorable football experience was playing at the 7v7 National Championships in Florida,” Ethan said. “We were one of two Canadian teams at one of the most elite tournaments held. I loved the competition and atmosphere.”

When asked if he models his game after a specific player, Ethan dismissed the notion. However, he has been compared to pros with similar statures.

“I frequently get called names such as Wes Welker, Julian Edelman, Christian McCaffrey and Weston Dressler, because of my size and shiftiness,” he said.

The recruitment process has been “solid” for him, as he’s received interest from many different schools. But there was one school that piqued his interest, which is where he’ll be playing next season.

“I have recently signed my LOI to Guelph university,” Ethan said. “I chose Guelph because of the “family-like” atmosphere that I felt when visiting the school.”

His parents and one of his coaches have given him the tools to succeed on and off the field.

“The most influential people in my life are my parents,” he said. “They have always been there for me, and have been great role models for me. I admire how hard they work and how much they care about our family. Also, coach Marcello Lio, of Villanova College, has been one of the most influential people in my life. He has been such a great mentor to me on the football field, but has also been such a great example for me off the field.”

Ethan aims to put forth a strong effort in his first year in U Sports. “I expect to compete as a freshman,” Ethan said. “Whether that means on offence, special teams, whatever it may be. I expect to compete for a chance to play and to better not only myself but the team.” He thinks he will be able to make a smooth transition to the next level.

“I think I’ll adjust well to the next level, however, the size of the players will be a bit of a shock to me as I’m not the biggest guy around,” he said. “I’m trying to put on as much muscle combined with as much speed as I can to prepare for the upcoming season.”

Looking ahead, he aspires “to play in the CFL” after his university football days are over. The sport of football has given so much to Ethan and has shaped him as a person.

“Football means so much to me,” Ethan said. “I have met some of my best friends playing football, and I am so thankful to have worked under so many coaches who have helped to mould me into the person I am today.”

Ethan Hill
WR/ATH/KR
5’8, 170 lbs

Teams: York Simcoe Bucs, Villanova Knights
Commitment: Guelph
Official Visits: Toronto
Considerations: Guelph, Toronto, South Florida, Princeton, Yale, Kent State, York
Class: 2017