Today, CFC features Class 2013 star defensive back from the Citadel Phoenix, Chris Folkins. Chris began his football career when he was 15 years of age.
Chris Folkins
Positions:
Defensive Back, Running Back, Special Teams (kick return/punt return)
Height/Weight:
5’10, 170 lbs
Teams:
Citadel Phoenix (high school: NSSAFFL)
Halifax Seahawks (junior varsity: NSVFL)
Commitment:
None
Consideration:
Acadia, Dalhousie, Queen’s, Open
Class:
2013
When he was in grade nine, Chris began his football career with the Halifax Seahawks of the Nova Scotia Varsity Football League (NSVFL). In 2010, he moved on to the high school football ranks and suited up for the Citadel Phoenix of the Nova Scotia Student Athletic Federation Football League (NSSAFFL).
The defensive back won two consecutive NSSAFFL Tier 1 championship titles with the Phoenix (2010, 2011). Moreover, he was team defensive rookie of the year in 2010 and was selected to the NSSAFFL Nova Division second all-star team in a defensive back position this past season.
Chris experienced one of the highlights of his young football career during his rookie season with the Phoenix. It was at the annual Turkey Bowl game against the Cobequid Education Centre Cougars.
“It was only my second game starting and I think I was the only grade 10 starter,” explains the Phoenix defensive back. βI was still relatively new to football and this was a big game for our team with a big crowd so I was pretty nervous.”
“However, I played one of my best games that day and got a pick-6 in the third quarter; we won the game and overall it was just a fun experience.”
It wouldn’t have been possible for Chris to become a defensive talent without the guidance, instruction and support of the Phoenix coaching staff. In particular, co-head coach/defensive coordinator Jeff Lawley, and positional coaches Matt Wheeler and Mike Thompson have been instrumental in giving him the tools he’s needed in order to achieve gridiron success.
“They have taught me everything I know about football,” comments the Phoenix defensive back. “When I first came to Citadel, I hardly knew how to play football and they have really helped me to develop and improve.”
“They have also taught me that hard work and determination pays off.”
Off the field, Chris says his parents have been the most influential individuals in his life.
“They have always supported me in everything I’ve done and guided me along the right path,” adds the Phoenix defensive back. “They encourage me to work hard and succeed.”
Even though he doesn’t graduate for another year, Chris already has academic and career goals he’s like to achieve. Academically, he would like to go to university and take sciences courses. Beyond that, the Phoenix standout says that he is considering the possibility of applying to medical school so he can become a doctor.
No matter how the future unfolds for him on and off the field, Chris will continue to use the recipe for success he’s learned from the game.
“One thing that I’ve learned from football is that success comes from hard work,” explains Chris. “If you want something you have to work for it.”
Phoenix co-head coach and defensive coordinator Lawley says that Chris has “Jekyll and Hyde” traits.
“Off the field he’s easy going, has a great smile and provides a good example through our Mentorship program for our younger players,” summarizes Lawley. “When it’s time to strap the pads on he is a polar opposite.”
“His teammates have nicknamed him “Serial Killer” for the simple fact that when he gets his hands on you, it’s all over!”
As for the upcoming high school football season, Lawley says that it could be the best one of Chris’ career.
“Chris is a very focused athlete and we expect big things from him next season,” comments the Phoenix co-head coach. “Provided he continues to work on his strength in the gym, he will be a blue chip recruit for university.”
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