Regina football players help Canada defeat U.S. in showdown

A few Regina football players helped Canada claim victory over the United States in the Under 18 International Bowl last month — and they’re going to be continuing their careers in the Queen City.

The International Bowl pits the best young football talent from both countries in a match on the gridiron.

Canada won the game 44-26 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Joshua White and Jaxon Ford both play defense for the Campbell Collegiate Tartans and were picked to be on the teams’ roster.

Ford wasn’t on the original roster but got the call after another player had suffered an injury.

“Just to be called was a pretty big honour to represent your country.”

White said it makes things easier for him on the field when he’s playing with someone’s he’s familiar with.

“We link on plays and know each others playing styles so it’s really fun to play with each other.”

It’s only fitting that Ford would be able to find success on the football field — he is the grandson of Saskatchewan Roughrider legend Al Ford.

Jaxon said his grandfather is never too far away when football is involved.

“He watches every single game, he even comes to every single practice.”

Both White and Jaxon will both be sticking around Regina, signing letters of intent with the University of Regina Rams.

“I’m really happy that I signed there and I’m really looking forward to practicing with them and just getting on that field and strapping the buckets on again,” Jaxon said.

White said he enjoyed the environment at the U of R and was set on staying home to play football.

Rams defensive coordinator Sheldon Gray was also at the International Bowl on the coaching staff. He said the event helps the players understand what it takes to play at that level.

“Just the meetings and the preparations that go into it, they get a taste of what University is going to be like.”

Gray said he’s looking forward to working with both players as the Rams season gets underway.