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.
Rasheed Tucker goes above and beyond in his quest to succeed on the gridiron.
“I believe that I’m a very determined person and player,” elaborated the 5’8, 162 pound running back. “When it comes down to a close situation, I always find that I have the ability to push beyond my previous limits.”
During his time with both the Upper Canada Blues of the Conference Independent Schools Athletic Association (CISAA) and Ajax-Pickering Dolphins of the Ontario Varsity Football League (OVFL), he has demonstrated his passion, determination and drive at the running back position.
“I play for the fun and competition within the position,” explained Tucker. “I truly enjoy the physicality, emotion, and effort that you must put forth to be successful in any single play.”
“I love the feeling of making guys miss and scoring touchdowns.”
On the field, Tucker has emulated his NFL idols, Adrian Peterson (Minnesota Vikings), Barry Sanders (former Detroit Lion) and Ladanian Tomlinson (former San Diego Charger/New York Jet).
On Saturday, the running back will have his chance to exceed his limits representing Team Central’s junior varsity squad at the Ontario Prospect Challenge (OPC).
“I decided to try out for OPC when I hear about it from Coach Mike Cummings,” recalled Tucker of his introduction to OPC. “I thought it would be a nice way to push myself and grow as a player.”
The entire OPC process has been invaluable and beneficial for the Team Central running back.
“The OPC experience has been pretty good so far,” reflected Tucker. “I feel like I’ve already learned some things from the coaching staff.”
“The highlight so far has just been going full tilt with some of the best players in Ontario. The OPC coaches seem very qualified and it’s been a great experience so far.”
Playing at TD Place in Ottawa against Team East is not an easy task as spectators and recruiters will be looking on in the stands. However, Tucker is doing his part not to let the pressure get to him.
“I’ll just try to be relaxed and play as best I can,” said the offensive standout. “I have been practicing with my summer team, the Durham Dolphins to prepare for our summer season as well as the OPC.”
Tucker cannot wait for the opportunity to play with and against other players from the province.
“I’m really looking forward to competing with and against very talented guys to push myself more and grow as a player and running back,” commented the Team Central running back. “I’m excited to compete with my Dolphins teammate running back Jamar Berry, defensive end Sevion DeCosta, and I’m excited go up against the great talent I’m sure team east will offer, with the range of players from the Ottawa area.”
As the OPC will be a major avenue for players to showcase their abilities in front of recruiters, Tucker is no exception. The Class 2018 running back is already three OUA schools – Western, McMaster and Wilfrid Laurier. Moreover, he is looking south of the border to see if any NCAA schools have any interest.
“I’d like to one day play running back at a Division 1 school in the States and eventually professionally,” added the running back of his future gridiron aspirations.
The present focus for Tucker is OPC and his desire to turn in a stellar performance not only for himself, but Team Central as well.
“My personal goals for OPC are to run as hard as I can, help my team win the game, and win the MVP Award,” expressed Tucker. “My team goals are to learn from the great players that will be around me and for our OPC Central team to win the game.”
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