Class 2012: Nick Rhodenizer is exemplary student-athlete (Video)

Today, CFC features class 2012 star defensive back from the Citadel Phoenix, Nick Rhodenizer. Nick began his football career in grade 10.

Nick Rhodenizer

Positions:
Defensive Back, Special Teams (Punt Return)

Height/Weight:
5’10, 170 lbs

Teams:
Citadel Phoenix (high school: NSSAFFL)
Halifax Seahawks (varsity: NSVFL)
Team Nova Scotia under-18

Commitment:
None

Consideration:
Carleton, Mount Allison, St. Francis Xavier, Open

Class:
2012

When Nick began his rookie campaign with the Citadel Phoenix of the Nova Scotia Student Athletic Federation Football League (NSSAFFL), he immediately knew he belonged on the football field.

“As a rookie, I was new to the game but was aggressive and athletic from playing basketball my whole life so I quickly embraced the idea of playing defensive back,” adds the Citadel defensive standout.

Nick contributed to the success of the Phoenix defensive unit. During his high school career, the Phoenix had three consecutive undefeated seasons (33-0 record overall) en route to winning a string of three NSSAFFL Tier 1 championship titles (2009-2011).

“My most memorable football experience was winning my third straight championship and fourth in a row for Citadel, something that’s only been done twice before in Nova Scotia high school football history over Horton High School in our championship game this past season,” says the Phoenix defensive back of his time with the team.

Moreover, Nick suited up for the Halifax Seahawks of the Nova Scotia Varsity Football League (NSVFL) in the spring of 2010. That season, the Seahawks made it all the way to the championship finals; however, they lost the title game to the Dartmouth Knights. Furthermore, the defensive standout represented Team Nova Scotia at the Football Canada Cup in Lethbridge, Alberta this past July.

The Citadel Phoenix and the NSSAFFL recognized Nick for his stellar play on the field. He was named team most improved defensive back in 2010 and special teams player of the year this past season. Additionally in 2011, the league selected the graduating standout to the Nova Division second all-star team in a defensive back position.

What is the most inspiring part about Nick’s rise in the Nova Scotia high school football ranks is that he’s achieved a high level of play while overcoming health adversity. When he was just 12 years of age, the Phoenix defensive back was diagnosed with type one diabetes.

“I strive to make sure that it in no way holds me back from what I do in life both on and off the field,” adds Nick.

Being able to succeed at a high level on the field would not be possible without the motivation and instruction of the Phoenix coaching staff.

“The people who influenced me the most throughout my time at Citadel were Coach (Mike) Tanner, Coach (Jeff) Lawley and my two positional coaches Matt Wheeler and Mike Thompson,” comments the Phoenix graduating standout. “They pushed me to get better every day and challenged me daily on the field.”

Off the field, Nick is appreciative of the role his family has played in his life.

“They supported me in everything I did and were always there to make sure I had what I needed to succeed,” says Nick.

Once the Phoenix defensive back completes high school this spring, he would like to attend university and study either commerce or international studies. A future career goal for Nick is to run his own company.

The game has given Nick the recipe for success in football and life. Overall, there is one thing he will take away from the game.

“The most important thing football has taught me about life is that even if you’re at a disadvantage, hard work and determination can allow you to achieve anything you want in life,” comments Nick.

Phoenix co-head coach and defensive coordinator Jeff Lawley has instructed Nick over the past three seasons. Lawley says that he’s enjoyed coaching the defensive back because of the unique football sense he possesses.

“I love to coach smart football players and you can count Nick on that list,” explains Lawley. “He’s got a great football mind; you tell him once and it’s locked in like a steel trap.”

Moreover, Nick is an exemplary student-athlete. This will be an asset to any future football team.

“Nick has a terrific work ethic and trains hard in the gym which enables him to reap the benefits on the football field,” says Lawley. “Nick has an excellent academic background and as such has the privilege to choose whatever school he wants.”

“Nick will make a fine university football player!”

Video of Nick’s Football Highlights:

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