Rams commits excited to experience Regina, CanWest

Rams add two BC commits to their team.

Having committed to the University of Regina Rams, Mitchell Lukoni, a defensive lineman from the Kamloops Broncos (CJFL), and Ivan Xu, an offensive lineman from Mount Douglas Secondary School, are ready for the challenge that comes with playing U Sports football.

Mitchell Lukoni

Content to stay in the west, Mitchell Lukoni is excited to battle it out in the CanWest. “With Regina in the CanWest division, I was very happy about receiving an offer from them as I feel it’s the most competitive division in U Sports football and gives the greatest opportunity for the next step in a football career,” he said.

Hailing from Prince George, BC, he added that, “Being from BC, I was happy getting a new experience in going to Saskatchewan…my visit also went very well, and I felt at home in Regina and it was a place I could see myself for the following years.”

When thinking about the Rams’ coaching staff, Lukoni said Head Coach Bryce is a great guy “and he really has put (in) a great culture of winning with the program that I think lots of people will get to see more of in the following years. Coach Gray and Nesbitt really gave me a great impression and I feel they can give me the best opportunity to succeed.”

Lukoni, who is interested in biochemistry, was also very impressed with the school’s academics. He said the school has an outstanding kinesiology and health studies faculty, while also having a great science program.

The 6’4, 250lbs defensive end has been playing football for six years. In high school he was a member of the College Heights Cougars (BCSSFA). He was defensive rookie of the year with the Broncos in 2018.

Throughout his career, Lukoni primarily played as a quarterback. He said transitioning to the defensive line was very tough. “Coming out of high school I had a huge lack of experience at the position and that’s what made me choose Kamloops,” he said. “I’m so grateful for the opportunities the Broncos gave me, and the coaching staff was amazing to me.”

During his time with the Broncos, Lukoni said he learned a lot and that he wouldn’t be the player he is today without the help of Jeff Hunter, Jon Collavini, Braden Vankoughnett and Todd Wiseman.

The UofR Rams welcome Mitchell Lukoni to the family. Mitchell is a 6’4” 250 pound DL from Prince George who played for the Kamloops Broncos. #WeAreUofR pic.twitter.com/hFNk5E3JTX

— Stephen Bryce (@StephenBryce55) January 15, 2019

Ivan Xu

Ivan Xu won’t need much time to adjust to the name “Rams.” A member of the Mount Douglas Rams (BCSSFA), he has played with the team since 2015.

“I chose to commit to the school because of the great, supportive environment they have and the winning culture really appealed to me,” Xu said of his commitment to Regina. “I think the coaches are a good group of guys that really put forth an effort to win and want their players to succeed.”

The 6’2, 260lbs tackle and guard is from Victoria, BC. In addition to being a Fox 40 Prospect Challenge Alumnus, he was the most valuable lineman in the 2016 Subway Bowl. He was also the most valuable offensive lineman in 2018 and defensive lineman in 2019.

Signed! The UofR Rams Welcome Ivan Xu to the family. Ivan is a 6’2” 260 pound OL from powerhouse Mount Douglas Rams and Team BC U18. #WeAreUofR pic.twitter.com/3Ue5PSKz2S

— Stephen Bryce (@StephenBryce55) January 18, 2019