Football is not for the faint of heart, with its punishing play and speed, but Kenneth Kwindja doesn’t shy away from that physicality; he embraces it.
“Football is a real passion for me. I love hitting people,” the linebacker and defensive back said.
A linebacker first, Kwindja believes his position is the most fun to play. “You can play the run as much as the pass,” he said. “You have to have a very good football intelligence to play linebacker. Also, it’s the perfect position to hit someone.”
Having played for five years, the 5’11, 195lbs veteran wasn’t originally interested in the sport. It wasn’t until his coach, Dominic Menard, offered him a chance to play at the start of high school. He admits he was not interested at first because “I thought that I would never have the chance to reach a high level of football.”
Courtesy of Kenneth Kwindja.
With his recent success, Kwindja probably doesn’t entertain that doubt anymore. In 2016, he captured a Bol d’Or with his team. “It was the most beautiful experience of my life,” he said. He was also named the defensive player of the year for L’Aigles d’Or de Dalbé-Viau. This summer, he played on Team Québec at the 2017 Football Canada Cup where he was a captain. Québec beat Team Saskatchewan 10-7 in the championship game to capture their third straight gold medal.
Kwindja, who dreams of playing in the NFL, has someone very special he plays for. He said the most influential person in his life is his mother. “She made so many sacrifices for me. She is an excellent example of courage, determination and perseverance. I would like to help her in return,” he added. “I would like to thank my parents and God for everything.”
Currently looking into prep schools in the United States, his goal for this season is to be the best defensive player on his team. “It would be an honour and a blessing to play there (in the Untied States),” Kwindja said.
Next year, Kwindja plans on participating in NCAA camps. He said he hopes a recruiter will notice him. When he hits the field, he wants scouts to know that he will be a physical player who will give everything he’s got. And, to make sure he’s seen, and to make sure that he is ready for the next level, he said he wants to learn the game book from veteran players.
“I would do anything to achieve my goals,” Kwindja said. “I know it will not be easy, but with God, everything is possible!”
Kenneth Kwindja (#11)
Linebacker and defensive back
5’11, 195lbs
Teams: L’Aigles d’Or de Dalbé-Viau, Team Québec
Official visits: none
Unofficial visits: none
Considerations: open
Class: 2019
Advocating for football prospects one story at a time.
FPC West Showcase Spotlight: Alberta DT embracing the process of football with a major piece of advice
