London native, and Sir Frederick Banting graduate Nick Hallett is gearing up to play in his 4th career Grey Cup game against the Montréal Allouettes on November 19th.
An impressive feat considering it’s also only Hallett’s 4th year in the league. Hallett is just one of many CFL players with ties to the London area. With many players coming from the football juggernaut that is Western University, London is widely considered a football hotbed for the CFL. Hallett’s case is slightly different however, as he was born and raised in London, and attended Sir Frederick Banting Secondary School.
Hallett’s not only rostered on The Winnipeg Blue Bombers, but also gets decent playing time as an impactful special teamer. Totaling 24 tackles this year, as well as a blocked punt that was returned for a touchdown in last week’s playoff win over the B.C Lions, Hallett has played a major role in getting the Blue Bombers back to the Grey Cup this year.
Not only has Hallett’s play excited Bombers fans, but also the current Banting Broncos Football team. Watching and cheering on his inspirational journey.
“It’s pretty awesome, especially considering, like, somebody on my team, or even I could be there one day. And, you know, be on the big field. Playing in the CFL. You know, it’s a dream of mine, and I hope to be there one day, and it really just motivates me to work hard everyday day in and day out.”
Minhal Ahmed, an Offensive Lineman for Banting, believes Hallett’s ascension to the CFL really shows that it’s possible for anyone to make it when they put in the effort. Minhal also wants to follow in Hallett’s footsteps from Banting to the CFL.
“It’s just very special to see it, I can’t wait to watch him play in the Grey Cup.”
Banting football’s head coach Todd MacKay also believes that Hallett’s success is a testament to the team’s core values. “We’re constantly pumping the message about hard work, and about dedicated commitment to things, be it school, or be it football. And so with Nick getting there, it definitely sort of sets that standard of, see, this is what you can get when you set those sights to the level you want.”
Hallett’s Blue Bombers are expected to get millions of Canadians tuning into their game Sunday night. Including many current and former Banting Broncos players. Kick-off is set for 6pm from Tim Hortons Field in Hamilton |Ont.
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