Saskatoon recruit heads west to sign with Sun

Sun welcome talented receiver into their program.

Cole Paradzik is a 6’0, 170lb receiver from Evan Hardy Collegiate in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The prairie product is slated to head west and join the Okanagan Sun of the CJFL.

“I thought the Suns would be a great fit for me. The city of Kelowna is is unbelievable and you really can’t beat moving there and playing football for an organization like the Suns.” said Paradzik.

Paradzik recorded 535 yards on 35 receptions, along with 5 touchdowns through the air in 8 games during his senior season. He was also able to rack up 135 yards on the ground, along with one score on 8 carries. Paradzik was a multi sport athlete during his tenure at Evan Hardy, representing the Souls on the basketball court, soccer pitch and was also a member of the track and field team to go along with starring on the football field. His athleticism is clear when watching him play. Paradzik is a talented route runner with great speed, and a special ability to make defenders miss in the open field.

After taking a year away from the game, Paradzik believes he will be well prepared for Sun summer camp in July. “My year away from football made me realize how much I enjoyed playing and how much it meant to me.” Paradzik explains.

“Cole takes football very seriously, that was evident with how critical he was of himself at our spring camp.” noted Ben Macauley, head coach of the Okanagan Sun. Macauley was extremely impressed by Paradzik’s showing at the Suns spring camp. “As he gets a bit bigger, faster, and stronger, he will become a key contributor on offense and special teams.” Macauley added.

Receiver coach Tony Lindsay also mentioned how he really liked the way Cole hit the line of scrimmage aggressively and how hard he runs play in and out.

It was a busy CJFL signing day for the Suns, who managed to sign 19 players. The Suns snagged a total of five players from Saskatchewan, with four being brought in from Saskatoon and with the fifth coming from nearby Moose Jaw. Joining Paradzik from Saskatoon are OL Kyle Zale, DL Mitch Lyons and LB Matthew Panattoni.

Macauley credits his programs roots in Saskatchewan for allowing him to be so successful in recruiting the prairies. “It’s no secret that the prairies have a level of toughness that’s hard to match. It’s not that hard to recruit guys who want a new experience to come to Kelowna.” added Macauley.

“We feel the grass will grow where you water it. And we poured a lot into Saskatchewan this year.” Macauley explains.

The Sun open up their 2017 campaign at home against the Westshore Rebels on July 29th.

 

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