Laurier recruit loves school’s community feel

Laurier adds southern Ontario commit to their Class of 2018.

In grade ten, defensive back Ryan Long from Parkside Collegiate Institute decided to dedicate more of his time towards football, training three hours a day everyday. His hard work has since paid off with a commitment to the Sir Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks.

“I loved the community feel of Laurier and how close everyone was. All the players were really inviting, and the facilities were outstanding. It felt better than the other universities I’ve seen,” Long said.

During his recruitment, Long said the Golden Hawks’ coaches never pressured him to pick their team. “They never pushed me too hard to go to Laurier. They just gave me the opportunity to see everything and were confident in their program and that I would love it,” he added. “Coach Faults and the rest of the coaching staff were incredible…keeping in touch and supporting me throughout my decision.”

Long, who is from St. Thomas, Ontario, plans on taking business. He said the school’s amazing business program was another reason why he chose Laurier. He added that he spoke to the head of Laurier’s business school and she helped ensure that business was the right choice for him.

The 5’10, 170lbs athlete spent four years with the Parkside CI Stampeders (Thames Valley Regional Athletics) and three with the Forest City Thunderbirds (OFC). In grade ten, he was the Stampeders’ and Thunderbirds’ most improved player. He also received the special teams award. In grade 11, he was the Thunderbirds’ defensive MVP and an all-star.