REC Newransky ready to put Thunder Bay on the map

Sometimes the bright lights of Ontario don’t shine far enough to reflect the Northern cities, but in recent years the times have changed thanks to a young crop of talent who have forced their way into the spotlight. An influential player in this Northern revolution is wide receiver Josh Newransky, who was apart of the CFC50 St. Ignatius Falcons squad this past season who brought home Thunder Bay’s first ever OFSAA title at Tim Hortons Field.

Newransky says that the victory was a milestone achievement for him and his teammates, and shows just how far the entire city has come since he first walked through the doors at St. Ignatius,

“Football in Thunder Bay was not super big when I started playing.” he explains. “Over the past few years, I have had the privilege of seeing football grow in our city. Winning the Simcoe Bowl in Hamilton means so much to our team because we believe the St. Ignatius Falcons represented Thunder Bay very well.”

Along with his team and city, Newransky – who was also a member of Team Manitoba back in 2015 – has grown as a player developing into a reliable receiver that should make an impact at the next level. One statistic that every coach loves to see is touchdowns, and Newransky has plenty for them after hauling in 12 majors on just 33 catches in 2016 – which for those people who struggle with math, is roughly one touchdown for every third reception he made. Newransky also earned brownie points en route to Tim Hortons Field with a clutch four touchdown performance in the semifinals, which never looks bad on a football resume.

The gaudy numbers have had recruiters cranking their neck up towards Thunder Bay in search of talent, but Newransky is still mulling over his options before making a concrete decision,

“The recruitment process is a slow but rewarding process as some coaches take a while to get back to you, and rightly so. I have not committed yet, but my top choice right now would have to be the University of Ottawa. McMaster University and Queen’s University are also a couple of great schools that I have in mind.”

Although he is currently delaying his commitment, there will be no delay for off-season workouts which Newransky hopes will prepare him for a more sophisticated level of football when the time comes to strap on his pads again,

“This off-season I will improve by getting stronger and faster, but also in my knowledge of route running and reading coverages. The next level will be a fast paced, hard hitting, and intellectual game, but I believe I will adjust well.”

The adjustment period can be the toughest part for any athlete making the jump to U Sports, but one great thing about the football community is that there is always a support system in place to help people achieve their true potential. Luckily for Newransky, this support system resides at home and on the field with his parents pushing him every step of the way.

“The most influential people in my life are my parents who support me whenever I need it, and also my coach Tyler Dennis for putting me in situations to make plays and encouraging me in the sport.”

The harsh reality of this world is that some people have it easier than others, and this applies to football as well when it comes to the region you play in. Too often the Northern cities are looked down upon when Ontario football is being discussed, but Newransky and the St. Ignatius Falcons are a prime of example of what pure passion for the game can really achieve,

“Football means so much to me, and so much to other players as well as coaches around the city, because it’s a family away from your family, and a home away from home.” Newransky explains. “I hope Thunder Bay continues to be recognized as a city that produces talented football players.”

Josh Newransky
Receiver
6’1, 187 lbs

Teams: St. Ignatius Falcons, Thunder Bay Knights 2015 U18, Team Manitoba 2015 U18
Commitment: none
Official Visits: none
Considerations: Ottawa, Queen’s, McMaster
Class: 2017