Bisons announce commitment of two local recruits

Manitoba Bisons football team is pleased to announce the commitment of two local recruits with offensive lineman Braiden Watson and defensive back Brenden Cowan for the 2015 season.

“We are pleased to announce both Braiden Watson and Brenden Cowan to the Bison Football program,” discussed Bisons Head Coach Brian Dobie of the two local recruits.  “Both players have reached their goal of playing at the university level in completely different paths.”

“Watson comes to Manitoba from the Winnipeg Rifles junior football program where he excelled as a top lineman and was recognized as an CJFL All-Canadian. At the 6’3”, 275 lbs. plus his junior experience, we expect him to contest for a starting spot. Cowan comes from rural Manitoba in Plumas, attending high school in Gladstone and playing football at Neepawa Collegiate. His obvious perseverance has led him to the University of Manitoba and at 6’3”, 195 lbs. and a 100m provincial finalist in grade 11, his upside and potential is enormous once he gains more football experience.”

Watson, 21 played last three seasons (2012-14) with the Winnipeg Rifles.

– The Winnipeg native was Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL) All-Canadian plus Prairie Football Conference (PFC) All-Star at the offensive line position for 2014 season

– The 6’3, 275 lbs. offensive lineman attended the Winnipeg Blue Bombers rookie camp in 2014

– Was named Outstanding lineman for the Rifles in 2014

– Prior the Rifles, played grade 12 football at Miles Macdonell Collegiate

Cowan, 18, played for Neepawa Area Collegiate Institute Tigers in 2012-14.

– The Plumas, MB native played for Neepawa on both sides of the ball as quarterback/running back/wide receiver and defensive back and named 2013 Rural Manitoba High School Football League (RMFL) North Division All-Star

– The 6’3”, 197 lbs. versatile player had 700 passing yards, over 1,000 rushing yards, scored 11 rushing TDs, seven passing TDs, and scored on six two-point conversions

– In 2014 nine-man high school championship final vs. Swan Valley, Neepawa were a finalist and Cowan rushed for 195 yards (99 yard TD run) while 6-14 for 146 passing yards with four receptions for 87 yards