OVFL: Perseverance has been the key to LB Bellardini’s success

Perseverance and determination are two words that best describe Anthony Bellardini. He plays linebacker for the varsity Hamilton Ironmen and sustained a devastating knee injury.

“The ACL injury was one of the hardest challenges in my life, both physically and mentally,” said Bellardini. “I was in and out of the physio room three times a week for the first four months. Constantly doing strength and balance exercises, and working on regaining my range of motion. The first time squatting and running after the surgery was scary, however, it gave me a huge boost of confidence mentally. Knowing my knee was strong and healthy definitely was a relief. My goal was to get back on the field as fast as I could. After eight long months of relentless training, my determination and desire finally paid off. I was able to play the last four games of the season.”

He was six years old when he first started playing, and has been competing on the gridiron for almost 12 years.

“I have played a variety of positions,” said Bellardini. “When I was younger I played running back and defensive back. During high school, I’ve played both fullback and linebacker. For the Ironmen, I have just played linebacker, rotating between inside and outside.”

Bellardini is in his fifth year at Bishop Tonnos Catholic Secondary School in Hamilton, and has been a member of the team all five years.

As for the OVFL, he has been playing for six years and is currently a captain on the Ironmen.

“This is my second year being a captain for the varsity football team,” said Bellardini. “Also, in junior varsity I was a captain. I take pride in having a leadership role and enjoy being a role model my teammates can look up to. A leader needs to be unselfish and motivational all the time, and I believe I fill that void.”

He has grown a lot as a player, as a result of the teachings of his coaches.

“My coaches have helped me a lot,” said Bellardini. “Whether it was teaching the basics or complicated schemes, they were always supportive. Most of my varsity coaches are former CIS players, so they definitely bring a lot of experience as they were all playing at an elite level. So sharing their tips, skills and experience is always helpful.”

The high level of competition in the OVFL has pushed him to be a better player and reach for the stars.

“You’re playing against kids equal or better than you,” said Bellardini. “The level of competition encourages you to work harder, whether it is in the gym or studying your playbook. I was always looking to get better as you have to in order to compete in this league. Also, the OVFL has many great games that can help you gain recognition such as the prospects game. Luckily, I was able to be a part of it two years ago and it was a fun game that definitely helped me grow as a player. I gained a lot of knowledge from the coaches and was able to compete with the best kids from around Ontario. Lastly, all the coaches are certified and experienced, they can definitely help you get to the next level.”

Bellardini has a training regimen that he maintains four to five times a week and likes splitting his workouts into upper and lower body days.

“Two days a week I like to do a heavy day in which I lift more weight but less reps,” said Bellardini. “It focuses more on building strength and power. Also, I like to do two dynamic days for upper and lower body. On those days I try to focus on speed, agility, balance, etc. After each workout, I like to do some core work, whether it be planks, sit-ups or med ball twists. If I can, I try to do one day a week of just cardio where I can focus on stamina and endurance.”

He has some words of wisdom for up-and-coming minor football players, especially after overcoming various types of adversity during his career.

“My advice to up-and-coming players is never give up and always strive to be better,” said Bellardini. “I easily could have given up after the ACL injury, but instead I did whatever it took to recover and play the sport I love. I’ve been told in the past that I’m too small or not fast enough, however, something they can’t measure is your heart. Dedicate extra time in the gym and in your playbook to prove those people wrong. So my main point is: don’t let others decide your future, go out and create your own.”

As for education, Bellardini has already committed to Laurier, where he’ll be majoring in kinesiology. But he is determined to play university football as well.

“Since I was a kid, I always wanted to play football at the next level,” said Bellardini. “If I get the opportunity, I will definitely try and do whatever it takes to play as a walk on.”