MTA coaches impress 3 commits

Mounties add three out-of-province commits to their 2018 class.

The wait for the new U Sports season is almost over, and for offensive lineman Vincenzo Frangione from St. Pius X High School, linebacker Oumar Diallo from Lester B. Pearson High School and kicker James Parker from the Vancouver Islander Raiders (CJFL), the wait to sign with a team is over after the trio sign with the Mount Allison Mounties.

Vincenzo Frangione

Vincenzo Frangione is ready to get a taste of east coast living. He said he chose Mount Allison because he “loved the small school atmosphere,” adding that “I also love the rich football history and also how it is located on the east coast.”

When he reaches the Mounties, Frangione is confident in the team’s coaching staff. “I really like the head coach. Head Coach Fraser is a nice guy and has a very good reputation in U Sports,” he said. “I think the coaching staff has a lot of experience and has a lot of knowledge of the game.”

He added that, “This will help me further my development and improve my technical skills to help me be more successful at the next level. I am looking forward to being coached by them.”

Pete Fraser, the team’s head coach, said that “Frangione is a fantastic d-lineman to be adding to the roster this late. I expect him to add immediate depth to our group.”

While in his hometown of Ottawa, Ontario, Frangione completed a pre-service firefighter program at Algonquin College. He intends to study psychology in university.

The 6’0, 285lbs defensive tackle has been playing football for nine years, eight with the Myers Riders (OPFL/NCAFA) and one with the Ottawa Sooners (OFC). He recently won an MVP award from the Riders. Last year, St. Pius X recognized him for his success in physical education. He helped the Riders win an OVFL bantam championship in 2013 and a junior varsity championship in 2015. The Riders also awarded him the Ruckstul Sportsmanship award and they recognized him for his volunteer work as a commentator at Riders games. Frangione also took part in the 2017 Fox 40 Prospect Challenge.

Like to announce the commitment of explosive D linemen Vincenzo Frangeone! He will be a force on the Defence for years to come. He a very athletic 6 ‘1” 285 lbs and is currently leading the opfl in sacks! @Ottawa_Sooners @opflfootball @Ontariofootball pic.twitter.com/2hcWFO2p5Q

— Mounties Football (@MTA_Football) June 18, 2018

Oumar Diallo

When choosing a school, Oumar Diallo turned to those around him for advice. “Well, the fact that it is one of the greatest undergraduate universities in Canada was one of the deciding factors,” he said, “as well as the good feedback I’ve heard from my teachers and coaches about the school, people and the football program.”

In terms of the Mounties’ coaching staff, Diallo trusted his own instincts. “Every coach I’ve spoken to has been very welcoming and made sure I was up-to-date and involved in every step of the recruiting process as well as accustomed to the school,” the future political science student said.

“Ourmar is very athletic and should compete early on,” Fraser said. “(He should) also help on special teams with how well he can run.”

Diallo was born in Montreal, Quebec, before moving to Calgary with his family. Once there, he spent three years playing with the Lester B. Pearson Patriots (CSHSAA) and the Calgary Broncos. The 6’0, 210lbs athlete was his school’s team MVP and was named as a division all-star. He also represented Team South U18 at the Alberta Senior Bowl.

“I truly believe that going to MTA is going to give me the best possible change of being successful on and off the field,” Diallo said. “I can’t wait to be a part of such a welcoming community and I’m looking forward to making players out in New Brunswick.”

All they way from Alberta! The 2018 class continues to add speed with Linebacker Oumar Diallo. Oumar, is a sideline to sideline player who is very physical. Can’t wait to see him make plays in the AUS! pic.twitter.com/1Un9fiqxHY

— Mounties Football (@MTA_Football) June 19, 2018

James Parker

As James Parker reviewed Mount Allison, he found something rather familiar. “I chose this program because MTA values everything I value in myself, and I felt something special as soon as I stepped on campus,” he said.

“During my visit, I was able to see that the coaches really are there to make sure we are in the pursuit of our full potential and to make sure we grow towards our potential,” he added.

With the graduation of Mounties’ kicker Ryan Lambert, Fraser is excited to have Parker join the team. “The signing of James Parker is big for us with our very good kicker, Ryan Lambert, moving on,” he said. “James will fill a big void.”

Parker, who is 5’10, 175lbs, spent two and a half years with the Abbotsford Panthers (BCSSFA) after joining late in his grade ten year. After graduating, the product of Abbotsford, BC, moved to Nanaimo, BC, to play with the VI Raiders. Last season he helped the Raiders win the Cullen Cup and was recognized as a CJFL all-Canadian. He is unsure as to which degree he will be pursuing; however, he is considering psychology.

As the new season approaches with haste, Parker is brimming with excitement. “I am excited for this opportunity,” he said, “and I can’t wait to see what we do this year.”

Like to welcome a CJFL All Canadian James Parker to the Mount A family! James is a huge addition to our special teams! Can’t wait to see him kicking field goals in the fall! Stay tuned for more 2018 additions! pic.twitter.com/yc7I5INcE2

— Mounties Football (@MTA_Football) June 18, 2018