Today, CFC shines the spotlight on Holland College Hurricanes star running back, Dave Clark. Dave began his football career six years ago with the Prince Edward Island Privateers.
Dave Clark
Positions:
Running Back, Special Teams (Kick Return, Punt Return)
Height/Weight:
5’11, 178 lbs
Teams:
Holland College Hurricanes (AFL)
Prince Edward Island Privateers (MFL)
Commitment:
None
Consideration:
Open
Dave has steadily risen up the elite football ranks in Prince Edward Island (PEI). Starting off as a defensive back with the Prince Edward Privateers of the Maritime Football League (MFL), he amassed impressive offensive statistics while playing 9-10 games a season and four down ball.
In four of the seasons with the Privateers, Dave had over 1000 rushing yards. Furthermore, the offensive star scored more than 10 touchdowns in each of five seasons. Rewarded for his efforts on the field, Dave was team most valuable player in 2009 and team offensive player of year in 2010.
For the past two seasons, the standout has played for the Holland College Hurricanes for the Atlantic Football League (AFL). Playing 10 games a season and three ball down, Dave amassed over 1000 rushing yards and more than 10 touchdowns in each of those seasons.
In 2011, the Hurricanes running back led the team to their first ever AFL championship title. The team defeated the University of New Brunswick Red Bombers 28-0 int he game to hoist the Moosehead Cup. It also marked the first time any PEI football team won a regional championship since 1960.
As a result of his exceptional play on the field this past season, Dave was awarded team offensive player of the year. For his part, running back enjoyed playing for the Hurricanes.
“It was a team driven to win,” explains Dave. “We had a solid group of guys, both coaches and athletes, who were focused on winning.”
Over the years, the offensive star has been influenced by individuals who’ve helped him to become the player and person he is today.
“In my life, most definitely my mom because without her, I would of never of been here to play football,” says Dave. “In football, it would be both Walter Peyton and Adrian Peterson for both their style of play and the determination on and off the field to be the best at everything they do.”
Overall, the dominant offensive gun for the Hurricanes has learned one key thing from the game of football.
“Size, strength, and speed is will,” comments the running back. “If you want something bad enough and are willing to fight to get there, it will always give you the best opportunity to get there.”
Before the running back played football, he competed at a high level in men’s artistic gymnastics. He is a four time national medallist in the sport. Dave would liket o pursue further studies in education or child and youth care.
Hurricanes head coach Mark MacDougall has instructed Dave on the field this past season but has watched him play quite extensively. MacDougall explains that when the AFL came to PEI in 2010 many local players such as Dave had a great avenue to compete against other Maritime players in the 18-24 age group.
As for his playing style, MacDougall says the running back may not be the biggest player on the field, but makes up for it by virtue of having the biggest heart.
“Dave is rarely tackled on the first contact,” adds MacDougall. “He has exceptional speed and balance along with an intense competitive spirit.”
“In 2011, he was the dominant offensive player on the league’s highest scoring offense.”
Seizing the opportunities given, Dave makes the most of it and it equates into success.
“Holland College came into the season with a very big offensive line and Dave took full advantage, rushing for 1500 yards in eight games,” says the Hurricanes head coach. “Dave was a team leader all season and was driven to help his team win the AFL championship.”
A gifted, yet skilled football star, the standout had demonstrated his reliability during his time with the team.
“Dave was meant to run with a football in his hand,” explains MacDougall. “He provided many thrills for local fans and he gave consistent results throughout the season.”
No matter where Dave decides to play next, his impact will be felt instantaneously, as it was the case with the Hurricanes.
“Wherever Dave plays next he will make that team better right away,” comments MacDougall. “The Holland College Hurricanes are proud to have had him represent them these past two seasons.”
Video of Dave’s Football Highlights:
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