Queen’s ‘best place to be’ says K/P commit

Queen’s welcomes an Ontario commit to their Class of 2017.

Kieran Flannery-Fleck, a kicker from Glebe Collegiate Institute, knows where his heart lies, and that’s with the Queen’s University Gaels.

“I love the small-town vibe, the facilities, the stadium, and the overall school pride,” Flannery-Fleck said. “As a student athlete, I felt it was the best place to be.”

Indeed, Queen’s has a lot to offer their students. The coaches, even more so. “It is a very experienced coaching staff. They know every aspect of the game,” Flannery-Fleck said. “Head Coach Sheahan was very personable and would go out of his way to connect with me.”

When striking a balance between school and sport, having encouragement and support can make the situation easier. Flannery-Fleck won’t be lacking either.

“The coaches are not just focused on you as a football player, but you as a student athlete,” the potential film and media studies student said. “They all stressed the importance of academics because as an athlete, you are never guaranteed a long career.”

Prior to joining the Glebe CI Gryphons (National Capital Secondary School Athletic Association), he played two years playing high school ball in Calgary, Alberta, with the Western Canada Redmen (Calgary High School Athletic Association). The 6’0, 170lbs kicker and punter has also suited up for the Bel-Air Norsemen (National Capital Amateur Football Association).

The 2016 season was a bountiful one for Flannery-Fleck. He was the Norsemen’s special teams player of the year, the NCSSAA all-star game MVP and a NCAFA champion. He also was ranked in CFC’s 3th Team All-Canadian list.

Before joining the Gaels’ training camp this summer, Flannery-Fleck will be playing with the Ottawa Sooners Premier Varsity team in the Ontario Provincial Football League. He said it is in order to keep his mind and body game-ready.

While his journey is set to take him away from his home, Flannery-Fleck won’t forget those who accompanied him this far. “I’m grateful for having such a supportive network of people who helped me accomplish my goal of attending Queen’s University and playing at the U Sports level,” he said. He added he would like to thank his coaches at the Elite Performance Academy.

Soon, it will be time to welcome some new comrades into the fold. “I’m extremely excited to join a school with such rich academic and football history,” Flannery-Fleck said. “I’m also very excited to meet my new teammates and go to battle with them for the next four to five years.”