Class 2012: James Dowdall to spend best years of his life at UBC (Video X2)

Today, CFC shines the spotlight on Class 2012 star slotback and recent University of British Columbia commit, James Dowdall. James began his football career at 10 years of age.

James Dowdall

Positions:
Slotback, Running Back, Safety, Special Teams (Kick Return/Punt Return)

Height/Weight:
5’9, 161 lbs

Teams:
Coquitlam Minor Football Association

Commitment:
Commitment to University of British Columbia

Class:
2012

Since there was no form of organized football at his high school (Port Moody Secondary), James played his entire career with the Coquitlam Minor Football Association.

The standout has received many honours during his young football career including Vancouver Minor Football League MVP, team MVP and most inspiration award. In 2009, not only was he awarded the most inspirational award, but he also experienced a special moment on the field.

“My most memorable football experience would be back in 2009 during the provincial championship game,” explains the slotback. “After playing quarterback all season, I scored the game’s only touchdown after being moved to running back due to our starter being injured.”

“We went on to win 7-3.”

Next season, James will enter the university ranks in his home province. Recently, he committed to the University of British Columbia (UBC). There were three main factors that made his decision to commit there quite simple.

“Firstly, as it is one of the top academic schools in North America, I knew I’d be provided with a great education,” comments the future Thunderbirds player. “Secondly, the thought of going to UBC as a kid had always seemed unlikely as I knew the caliber of student they took was probably higher than what I could achieve.”

“Thirdly, when Coach Olson took me on a tour of the campus, it further cemented my decision to be a Thunderbird. It’s a really great place to be spending the best years of my life.”

For the past five seasons, James has been privileged to have a phenomenal coaching staff at Coquitlam. They have instructed him into becoming the elite player he is today on the field.

“My head coach Eric Kimura has always had faith in me and done his best to put me into situations that maximize my potential on the field,” adds the standout. “Along with Kevin Marrington, my defensive coach of the past 5 years, I wish them both a happy and well deserved retirement.”

Away from the gridiron, James credits his parents for being the most positive influences in his life.

“They moved us all here from England back when I was nine to give me a better home and brighter future,” says James. “Through my play on the field and work off the field, I hope I can make them proud and reassured that their decision to relocate was a good one.”

Once he steps foot onto the UBC campus in the fall, James will enroll in the arts program. Within the next year, a decision will be made on his major. As for career goals, he has not yet made any yet but says that there is a lot of time to decide those goals. However, there is one gridiron goal he hopes to accomplish in the future.

“I’m looking forward to proving that despite the hype, players that come out of the community can be just as successful in the next level as high school players can,” comments the star athlete.

Overall, there are many things that James is appreciative of from the game of football.

“Football has taught me dedication and what it takes to be a successful athlete,” explains James. “Football has in away acted as a release for me the last few years as I find there is no better way for me to release pent up stress and tension than scoring touchdowns, returning kicks and catching footballs.”

Video of James’ Football Highlights:

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