Class 2012: Big and Powerful, Alex McKay is ready to take his game to the next level with the Bison’s

Starting at the age of 16, coming from a football program who’s inaugural season was 2008, to committing to the University of Manitoba, Alex McKay’s football career has come full circle.

Alex McKay

Position
Offensive Line

Height/Weight
6’5, 270 Lbs

Teams
Murdoch Mackay Collegiate
Winnipeg Riffles

Commitment
University of Manitoba

Class 2012

There is never an easy road one can take to the top, but there are short roads, and with natural talent and a focused head, Alex McKay is taking that road to the next level. Starting his career at the age of 16, would put some players at a disadvantage, but when your first football season is your teams first season, the possibilities are endless. “My high school, Murdoch Mackay Collegiate, had never had a football team before, but when the interest in a possible team was high, I made sure my name was first on the list for potential players,” the 6’5 270 Lbs O lineman says.

“I had never played football before my grade 11 season which was the Murdoch Mackay Clansmen’s first ever season as well. Once I started playing, I discovered a passion for the game that I had never felt before, so after 2 high school championship loses, I decided to join the Winnipeg Rifles.”

With such a minimal amount of years experience playing the game he now loves, McKay’s chances to make the starting line up his first year, were not on his side. It was then, where the hardworking big man, took it upon himself to push and get himself established as a starter. “I worked my way into the starting line up halfway through my first year and have never missed a snap since.”

The Rifles have helped McKay grow as a player immensely and he has his coaching staff to thank. “I’ve learned everything I know from the Winnipeg Rifles amazing coaching staff and I have them to thank for everything,” including the many awards he picked up while playing for the Rifles. In his past season, McKay was recognized as a PFC all-star, the PFC’s Most outstanding Offensive Lineman, and a CJFL All-Canadian.

With having such a short career, it is no surprise what the aspiring star’s biggest moment is to date. “The moment in my career that stands out the most would have to be finally committing to the University Of Manitoba. Since high school I had looked up to CIS players and knew that someday I would be one of the best.”

Not only positive, this young player also has a good head on his shoulder as he is more then aware the importance of maintaining grounded through his future experiences. “I intend to use football to pursue my career goals in life as well as I can. There are many degree programs I am interested in and I intend to graduate with one in the next four years.”

There is no knowing of what’s to come for McKays future, but hopes of playing professionally in Canada, remain at the top of his dreams. With a heart as big as his stature, there is no denying that he has the tools to get there.

“The hardest work is still ahead of me, but I am extremely proud to have earned my spot on a team that houses some of the best CIS players in CanadaWest. Now all that is left for me is to become one of the best at this level as well.”