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A Regina teen is getting some national recognition from the NFL.
Xavier Gatin is a quarterback at Michael A. Riffel Catholic High School who was recently featured on TSN for his highlight reel throw that earned him the Week 7 NFL Canada Way to Play Award.
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Coach Derek Pilon said it’s great to see Gatin recognized for his skills on the field.
“Gatin’s ability at quarterback is second to none with what he can do on the field. Every time he makes a play, sometimes you kind of get used to it, but when you sit back and watch a Grade 10 making plays like that, it’s pretty special.”
The award is meant to reinforce good playing technique and invest in Canadian high school and CEGEP tackle football programs.
Pilon said the entire team was excited when they found out Gatin was selected for the award.
“Anytime your team or a player on your team is recognized nationally, it’s just excitement. So proud of him, proud for our team. I think he was a little surprised. I don’t think he even knew he was nominated. But I think overall… it’s a pretty cool moment.”
Each week during the season (until Nov. 16), one submitted video is chosen and featured on TSN.ca and in a special segment during the NFL broadcast live on CTV.
Pilon said Gatin was nominated by his dad.
“Just watching the play itself, it showcases the skill that Xavier has with his athleticism, the scramble in the pocket, his arm strength, his ability to keep his eyes down the field while the pocket is collapsing, and showcases our receivers still running the route, even though it might be a broken play, and our linemen and running backs maintain protection for an extended period of time. So overall, it’s just a great play.”
As part of the award, Michael A. Riffel Catholic High School will receive $3,000 for equipment from Football Canada.
“The money is massive for us to help maintain our football program,” said Pilon. “Any type of money we can get to help maintain our football program is amazing.”
Pilon said this is the second time a football player from their high school has won the award, and said the last time they were able to replace all their helmets.
“We have to order helmets every year because a helmet has a 10-year shelf life. So helmets aren’t cheap.”
While Pilon said he is not sure what they will be spending the money on this time, he said there are plenty of things they can put the grant towards.
“Any type of equipment, film, jersey replacements, food, charter buses, headsets, anything that can help our program maintain the level that we want to be at, and also be able to provide our players the best equipment to maintain the safety level as well.”
Pilon said they will reassess their equipment once the season is over to see what the biggest need is
