OPC: Team East Varsity QB Spinella prepares to lead at home (VIDEO)

The countdown begins to CanadaFootballChat.com Ontario Prospect Challenge on the May 1st weekend.  In the days leading up to OPC, CFC will preview the teams, coaches and players participating in the big event.

Jacob Spinella will be playing in his own backyard next weekend in a big game.

Next weekend at TD Place in Ottawa, the quarterback will represent Team East varsity’s squad as they battle Team Central at the Ontario Prospect Challenge (OPC).

Spinella began his gridiron career at the age of eight with the tyke Nepean Redskins of the National Capital Amateur Football Association (NCAFA).  He has continued on to the midget level with the team, who are now known as the Nepean Eagles.

In addition, the pivot has also suited up for the bantam and junior varsity Ottawa Myers Riders of the Ontario Varsity Football League (OVFL) as well as Mother Teresa Titans of the National Capital Secondary School Athletic Association (NCSSAA).

During his entire career, he has enjoyed the central role he gets to play on offense.

“I enjoy playing quarterback because I get to be one of the offensive leaders on the team and the best part about the position is throwing the ball and having our receivers catch long touchdown passes,” explained Spinella.

While his favourite quarterback is CFL’s Henry Burris (Ottawa Redblacks), he would like to emulate NFL star Peyton Manning (Denver Broncos) on the field.

“Peyton Manning’s ability to read the defense is skill I’d like to further develop,” added Spinella.

The Ontario pivot is excited to be part of the OPC in his hometown and hopes to make an impact in Saturday’s game against Team Central.

“In OPC, I am looking forward to having the opportunity to play in a high quality game, have fun and show my skills to the CIS scouts who are watching,” commented Spinella.

In preparation for the big game, the Team East pivot has been undergoing a rigorous training regimen.

“I have been working out in the gym during the offseason, training and working on quarterback specific drills with Coach Wayne Jacobs of the Ottawa Invaders,” described Spinella.

Overall, Spinella hopes that come game day, he will be able to achieve a couple of key objectives on the field.  Moreover, he is thrilled to have the chance to meet fellow OPC participants.

“My goal for the OPC game is to be on the winning team and to have a strong successful offence,” commented Spinella.  “I’m looking forward to our preparation next weekend and getting to know players from other Eastern Ontario leagues.”

OPC is a stage that many participants hope to impress several recruiters that will be attendance.  Spinella is in that group.  Set to enter a post-secondary institution in 2016, he is currently keeping all his recruitment options open while looking for the one team that can offer him the best situation possible.

“As of now, I’m still considering many CIS schools and hope to get on a team where I can contribute as their quarterback,” offered the Team East pivot.

Once the OPC Varsity Game concludes, Spinella will continue on his quest to aim higher in his gridiron journey.  He hopes that OPC will get him closer to realize his ultimate goals.

“One thing I’d like to achieve as a quarterback is leading a team to a provincial championship win and continuing to play quarterback after high school,” expressed Spinella.

 

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