Guelph Gryphons coaching staff, family feel draws in two

Guelph adds a local recruit and an out-of-province recruit to their Class of 2018.

Defensive end Tavius Robinson from Guelph Collegiate Vocational Institute and receiver Jack Tocher from Cochrane High School may live in two different provinces, but they have two things in common: they are both originally from Guelph, and they are now both members of the University of Guelph Gryphons.

Tavius Robinson

Courtesy of Tavius Robinson.

Ever since he first started high school, the Guelph coaches have welcomed Tavius Robinson with open arms. “They always welcomed me on the field during practices and showed me how things are run at Guelph,” Robinson said. “I love the coaching staff and how they do things on and off the field.”

Interested in landscape architecture, Robinson said he appreciates how the coaches preach academics as much as athletics. He added that he chose the school because of its great football and school programs.

“Also, the Guelph program really feels like a family,” he said. “The coaches act together like a family and translate that feeling to the players. I am confident that the coaching staff will turn me into a better player and person.”

A product of Guelph, Ontario, himself, Robinson said that, “I love the city, so staying close to home is a bonus. The facilities and campus are incredible as well.”

Robinson is a current member of the Guelph CVI Gaels (District 10). The ten-year veteran has also played with the Guelph Jr. Gryphons (OPFL). Standing at a towering 6’8, 220lbs, he was a junior varsity OFC champion in 2015 and a Division 10 all-star. In 2016, he was named to the Division 10 all-star team again, as well as named as the lineman of the year. He helped his team capture a Division 10 championship too.

“I want to thank my family, close friends and all of my coaches who have always supported me and helped me reach this point in my life,” Robinson said. “I’m really excited to get started next year.”

Jack Tocher

Courtesy of Jack Tocher.

It will be a homecoming of sorts for Jack Tocher. Currently living in Cochrane, Alberta, he said, “I chose to commit to Guelph because of the roots I have there from it being my hometown.”

He added that, “The coaching staff is awesome. They believe in every one of their players and focus on getting better every day.”

The 6’4, 185lbs slotback has played with the Okotoks Foothill Falcons (Big Rock League) and the Cochrane Cobras (Rocky View Football League). In 2015 with the Falcons, he won a Tier 2 provincial championship. Last season with the Cobras, he helped capture a Tier 3 provincial championship. In 2017, he represented Team Alberta U18 at the Football Canada Cup.

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