Class 2012: Poised to be a force in the CIS, Nikita Starchenko will bring it all to Western


A threat on defense, Nikita Starchenko will be taking his impressive talents to the Mustangs in the fall.

Nikita Starchenko

Position
LB

Height/Weight
6’4, 215 Lbs

Teams
Oshawa Hawkeyes
Donald A. Wilson Gators
Team Ontario East

Commitment
Western

Class 2012

Respected on and off the field, Nikita Starchenko is a class act in every aspect of the game. Many can say it might stem from the success he has been fortunate enough to have experienced already, but regardless the case, Starchenko is a star on his own, and has the championships and acclimations to back it up.

Starchenko’s first taste of success brings him back to his 2005 season when he was named Offensive and Defensive MVP. He relieved the same success 2 years later, while still playing for the Oshawa Hawkeyes. MVP status is nothing new to high school senior. In his 2009-2010 season and 2011-2012 season, Starchenko was dawned Defensive MVP one again. His stellar play which got him the title may also be the play that lead his Donald A. Wilson Gators to the Metro Bowl this past season. Where, after a hard fought battle by St.Andrews College, his Gators pulled off the victory 21-14.

Along with his most recent championship titles, Starchenko has represented his province, playing for Team Ontario East while en route to becoming Canada Cup Defensive Player of The Game during the tournament.

With so much success, it may be hard for one to point out a single event in their career that stands out amongst the others. However, asking Starchenko, his fondest memory may come while playing on the biggest stage he has stepped foot on. “Coming back against Sac in the metro bowl game this year in overtime to win 21-14.” Short and simple, Starchenko exemplifies a true athlete’s perspective on success and winning. “A moment that I remember like it was yesterday,” the 6’4 line backer says. “Making the last 3 crucial stops against 2 top tier players on sac in overtime and on the last play of the game stopping the sac receiver short of the first down marker with one of my best friends, Brandon Hatzes.”

An excited Western Mustang team awaits Starchenko upon his completion of high school. The Metro Bowl champion will bring his winning ways to an already impressive defense. His goals reflect his decision on what school to attend as his dreams involve winning the Vanier Cup. Along with many Canadian born players, this Whitby native is no exception when it comes to the bigger picture and is hoping to take his career to the CFL after his stint in London.

Young but mature, Starchenko is ready for what his future holds and is excited to take the path in front of him. “Expand my football career for as long as I possibly can, I love the game,” is what he will tell you if you ask him what’s next. “I just want to be successful and live the dream. Have a job where I enjoy going to work everyday.”

Nikita Starchenko has already experienced so much success as a football player and when he dawns the purple and white next season, that success is sure to continue.

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