When it comes to Lionsβ football, there is no better example of brotherly love than Ashton and Riley Pilkey.
The pair, who are both defensive backs for the varsity Cambridge Lions of the Ontario Varsity Football League (OVFL), claim the chemistry they have on the field has strengthened their game.
βThe best part about playing with Ashton is the fact that I am right beside him when we play for the Lions,” said younger brother Riley. “The fact that he is my brother allows for Ashton and I too have great chemistry, if one of us makes a mistake it makes it easier to fix it during the play and after the play.”
It is no surprise Ashton had similar words when asked how playing beside Riley has impacted his game.
βThe overall chemistry between him and I makes me play better,” adds Ashton, a recent McMaster Marauders recruit. Β “Itβs a great advantage knowing where he is going to be on the field, and if he has my back that play or not.”
“We are able to read each other like no others on the team and thus it makes the game easier to us.”
Ashton also admitted there is a playful rivalry between the two. Fortunately, this rivalry contributes to a consistent effort on the field every week from both brothers.
βThe best part about having him on the team is the fact that football comes home with us,” explains Ashton. Β “We talk about how we can get better on the field.”
“We can bug each other and joke around at home about mistakes in one game knowing that we will try to show each other up at the next game,β.
Lions Head Coach Anthony Maggiacomo had nothing but positive words for the pair. His comments not only regarded their equally impressive skill, but also their enjoyable personalities.
βAshton and Riley are a great pairing of defensive backs,” commented Maggiacomo. Β “Not just because they are brothers, but because they play similar positions with equal levels of success but in contrasting styles.”
“Riley is one year younger and plays more aggressive and emotional, whereas Ashton plays with a quiet relaxed confidence. Both are leaders on our team andit has been a pleasure coaching both of them. It is enjoyable watching the brothers work together to help make our team better week in and week out.”
Riley stated that even though the brothers already have a stable relationship, it is no doubt football has tightened their bond.
βWe have always been close due to the fact we are only 11 months apart,” said Riley. Β “However, IΒ do believe that football has brought us even closer.”
Next year will be the first year the brothers do not suit up in the same uniform for the first time since Ashton started high school while Riley was still in elementary school. Ashton will be playing for the Marauders, while Riley is hoping to bring Jacob Hespeler Hawks a back-to-back Waterloo County Secondary School Athletic Association (WCSSAA) Championship.
Photo credit: Sandy Warner Photography
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