#CFCOVFL: Warriors end season with awards banquet

In a season that saw many organizational changes, the Mississauga Warriors Football Club concluded their 2015 spring season with an awards banquet held at the Vic Johnston Community Centre in Mississauga.

For some, it was an opportunity for teammates, friends and coaches to gather and recall enjoyable moments from this past season. For others, it was an opportunity to say final farewells to the organization as they prepare for the next level. The Warriors organization wanted to take the time out to honor the stellar performances and efforts of its players from it various levels of competition.  As well, the organization wanted to thank those who had dedicated their efforts to putting together Warriors’ football this season.

On the varsity side, there were seven Warriors players that took home awards due to their production, work ethic and dedication to the team.

Defensive back Karsten Ntow was awarded the team’s Most Improved Player. Throughout the season, Ntow made constant strides to improving his abilities on the football field, which was exemplified through his perfect attendance for Warriors’ games and practices. Ntow displayed the kind of commitment need to become better and his perseverance paid off.

The Coaches’ award went to recently named OVFL Varsity All-Star Kian Schaffer-Baker. The coaching staff for the Varsity Warriors was very adamant on making sure the receiver was awarded that night. Schaffer-Baker was the team’s top receiving threat and routinely came up with big plays for the Warriors on offence or on special teams.

Defensive Lineman Mekhi Henry was awarded the team’s Defensive Line MVP. Henry was a consistent force on the line, closing gaps and pressuring the quarterback. Defensive line coach Matt Kudu raved about Henry’s abilities and truly believes the sky is the limit if Henry wants to achieve greatness in football.

Taking home the Offensive Line MVP was Zachary Switzman. Not only was Switzman consistently effective protecting the quarterback and creating holes for his rushers, Offensive Line Coach David Rukavina made sure to mention Zachary’s versatility. During certain instances, there were times where Switzman also played on the defensive line for the Warriors.

Linebacker Damian Jamieson won Defensive MVP due to his timely playmaking and penchant for studying the game. As Linebacker Coach Kevan Scott presented Damian with his award, Scott made sure to notify the audience that not only is Damian talented but he is also a student of the game.

“During the season, he would never hesitate to ask questions about what we were doing. He always made sure he understood what we were trying to accomplish,” said Scott.

Offensive MVP went to the Kevin John. This past season for the Warriors, John was one the league’s top offensive threats making plays from the pocket or rushing with the football. This duel threat quarterback constantly kept defenses on their heels.

As Assistant Coach Lucas Cenedese was presenting John, he made note of the experiences he had with the young quarterback.

“I’ve had the opportunity to coach this young man for two years, and it was a pleasure to coach Kevin,” said Cenedese. “Not only is he a talented individual, but he is very humble as well.”

Assistant coaches Kudu and Scott also recall the impact Kevin John had for the Warriors this past season.

“This guy saved the team on so many occasions during crucial moments,” added Scott.  “If he was there for the games against Sault Ste Marie and Cambridge, we may have been able to win those games.”

Lastly, team MVP was awarded to #CFC100 middle linebacker Jack Cassar. He was a dominant force all season long, imposing his will onto opposing offences. As defensive assistants Kudu and Scott presented Cassar, they sang high praises for the linebacker touting him as the best player they have ever coached and going on to notify the audience that he is someone you could potentially see playing professional football one day.

Many of the Warriors’ awards winners do plan on playing another season for Mississauga next season. However, one player who will not be returning is Kevin John as he will be attending Western  this coming fall.  Earlier in the week, John, Schaffer-Baker and Cassar were named 2015 Varsity All-Stars for the Adam’s Conference.