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.
When Julian Ford is on the field, his determination takes over.
“I am passionate about what I do and won’t let anything stop me,” explained the 5’9, 260 pound offensive lineman.
His relentless work ethic has already netted him success on the gridiron. During his time with the Orleans Bengals of the National Capital Amateur Football Association (NCAFA), Moore experienced the highlight of his career when the team won Mosquito Championship in 2013.
This spring, he will begin his second season of competition with the Cumberland Panthers of the Ontario Varsity Football League (OVFL).
Not only Is Ford determined, but is also passionate about playing on the offensive line.
“I can block well and because of my size is well suited to the position,” added the Ontario standout. “I like to hit and the pressure that if I mess up the whole play is dead.”
On the field, Ford emulates his NFL idol.
“I look up to and model my game after Nate Solder of the New England Patriots because he is a great offensive player,” said the lineman.
Tomorrow, Ford will play in the biggest game of his career thus far as he will take part in the Ontario Prospect Challenge (OPC) as a part of Team East’s Underclassmen squad.
“It was an easy decision,” recalled the offensive lineman of his decision to try out for OPC. “I will do whatever it takes to achieve my goal.”
Moore believes the OPC process up to this point has been a beneficial and invaluable journey.
“So far, it’s been great,” reflected the Team East standout. “This is my first OPC experience so far and by far some of the best coaches so far in my career.”
“The coaches are helping us know our stuff, formations and have stressed the importance of being prepared. I have a lot of respect for the coaches because they have helped me become the player I am.”
As for the pressure of playing at TD Place in front of many spectators, Ford is unfazed by the challenge and is prepared not only physically, but mentally as well.
“I will handle it well because it helps me elevate my game to a higher level,” added the offensive lineman. “The more pressure the better I play.”
“Mentally, I have been going over the plays in my head to make sure I know what to do. Physically, I staying hydrated, working out (running, lifting weights), getting lots of rest and eating well. I am making sure my body is at my physical peak for the game.”
Set to graduate in 2018, Ford’s ambition is to play down south for an NCAA Division 1 team. The ones that he would consider if the opportunity ever arose are Oregon, Alabama and Texas A & M.
“They all have excellent football programs and can help me fulfil my academic goals,” added the offensive lineman.
Furthermore, he would like to give back after his playing career is completed.
“After playing professional football, I would like to become a professional coach to help young people achieve their dreams,” offered Ford, who wants to play in the NFL.
Ford is leveraging OPC as an avenue to gain attention and interest from recruiters.
“I am looking forward to playing in a professional stadium, playing in front of a crowd and the chance to get scouted,” commented the Team East lineman.
Additionally, Ford welcomes the chance to see how he stacks up with and against fellow competitors.
“We haven’t been a team for long but I am excited to play with some very talented running backs that I will be blocking for,” elaborated the offensive lineman. “I am excited to play against Toronto because in other leagues Ottawa and Toronto have rivalry and those types of games are always exciting to play in.”
Come Saturday afternoon, Ford hopes he is successful in accomplishing a couple of key objectives at OPC.
“My personal goal is to be better than the person I am up against and to have fun,” expressed Ford. “My team goal is to go in there and be better than our opponent, have fun and get a win.”
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