OPC: “No matter what happens on the field, worry about the next play”

The countdown begins to CanadaFootballChat.com Ontario Prospect Challenge on the May 1st weekend.  In the days leading up to OPC, CFC will preview the teams, coaches and players participating in the big event.

Since 2008, Pete Wilson has built an impressing coaching resume.

Wilson has coached for both the Halton Cowboys and Halton Invictas.  During his coaching career, he’s instructed at the atom, bantam, peewee and junior varsity levels within the Ontario Minor Football League (OMFL), Southwestern Ontario Football Association of Leagues (SOFAL) and Ontario Varsity Football League (OVFL).

For three years, Wilson has been part of the Pop Warner International Canadian Team.  He is also a National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) Level  1 Certified coach.

Currently, he is a coach with the Tier 1 junior Assumption Crusaders of the Halton Secondary School Athletic Association (HSSAA).

“I choose to be a part of the football community to give back what can be gained from this sport and help shape young athletes for future endeavours,” explained Wilson for his reasons for entering the coaching realm.

 

 

Let than two weeks from now, Wilson will add another event to his coaching resume as he is the Head Coach of the Team Halton-Peel Underclassmen squad that will compete at the Ontario Prospect Challenge (OPC) on May 2nd

Not only is this a new opportunity for him, it is a different coaching environment where there is only a short amount of preparation time for the big game.

“The biggest challenge of preparing for the OPC for me, other than learning names, is getting players to gel with one another,” elaborates Wilson.  “It’s great starting with players who all have top skills and years of experience and I look forward to our final practices together prior to the game.”

As he has been a part of the entire OPC process from the tryout phase to the main event, Wilson reflects on what has been the most memorable for him.

“My personal highlight was the Top 100 practice working with the opposing coaches,” recalled the Team Halton-Peel Head Coach.  “I have coached against many of the coaches in the past and it’s nice to be able to work together.”

In the midst of preparations before the game against Team West, there are two areas that Wilson will focus on during the final days.

“Our final preparation will be concentrating on roles and responsibilities for the game,” said the Team Halton-Peel Head Coach.  “Having the team together working hard will provide a positive mind set to help mental preparation.”

Playing in the OPC is an opportunity for many underclassmen players to gain the attention of recruiters and scouts.  Wilson would like all participants to compete and focus while leaving it all on the field.

“My only advice to the players is to play hard and respect this game,” added Wilson.  “No matter what happens on the field worry about the next play.”

Ultimately, Wilson hopes that all players will soak in and enjoy this unique experience.

“From a coaching stand point I want the players to have fun,” expressed the Team Halton-Peel Head Coach.  “All players will see the field and walk away as proud football players. I am looking forward to a clean game that is fun for the players.”

“I am sure their best efforts will pay off on game day.”

(twitter: http://twitter.com/vohra_ameeta)