#CFCOPC PLAYERS TO WATCH: Team East Varsity OL Gettas a blocking machine

The countdown begins to CanadaFootballChat.com’s Ontario Prospect Challenge (OPC) on the April 29th weekend at Tim Horton’s Field in Hamilton. In the days leading up to the OPC, CFC will preview the teams and the players participating in the big event.

Without the big boys blocking in front, any offensive play would struggle to get off the ground and Niko Gettas, a member of Team East Varsity, is ready to ensure the quarterback has plenty of time to move the ball.

The Ontario Prospect Challenge brings together some of the best, young football players from across the province. Gettas said he was drawn to the OPC because it gave him the ability to test his skills against talented players. He added that the highlight has been working with the amazing coaches the team has had.

Gettas has played six years with the Nepean Redskins (National Capital Amateur Football Association) and three years with the St Joseph Jaguars (National Capital Secondary School Athletics Association) as a member of the offensive line.

(The Nepean Redskins have since changed their name to the Nepean Eagles.)

The young football player stands at a towering 6’2, 230 pounds, giving him ample size for the line. While on the offensive line, Gettas has found himself mainly in the tackle positions. “I like playing O-tackle because you get to pull and on some plays hit the defensive backs,” he said.

“I also like the fact that I have more room on the outside on the line rather than inside,” Gettas added.

When asked about his football inspirations, Gettas gave a rather unexpected response. “My football inspirations are great football movies, such as We Are Marshall and Remember the Titans,” he said.

“[It is] because the bond the team builds together is very admirable, also the intensity they bring to their games is awesome,” he added. “Also, watching NFL and seeing how fast and skilled the players are there motivates me to be the best I can.”

This year’s OPC takes place at Tim Hortons Field in Hamilton and Gettas said playing there will be a really good experience and he is very excited for it. “If I get nervous before the game, I’ll listen to some music and talk with my teammates,” he said.

Set to be a member of the Class of 2017, Gettas is aiming for CIS football. He said he would like to go to one of his hometown schools, Carleton University or the University of Ottawa. “I hear they both have great olinemen coaches,” he added.

While university is still a year or so away, the OPC is fast approaching. “During the OPC, I’d like to showcase my skills to their full potential and play my hardest,” Gettas said.

“One personal goal of mine is to flatten someone on the field,” he added.

As for the team, the goal is simple. Get the victory.