U.S. offensive lineman signs with Bisons

Lathan’s mother Renatta grew up in Winnipeg’s North Kildonan neighbourhood, and after graduating as a nurse moved to Victoria, Texas, where she met Randy Chambers. Lathan’s extended family continue to reside in Winnipeg, and his uncle Patrick Kelly is a graduate of Manitoba’s engineering faculty, where Lathan also intends to study.

The Chambers’ continue to maintain a strong connection to Winnipeg, and consider themselves fans of the Goldeyes and Blue Bombers, as well as having enjoyed many of the sportsman’s paradises found on the prairies.

OL Coach Terry Watson expects his newest charge to lead by example from day one. “Chambers brings an obvious strong work ethic and high level of physical play. He is a perfect addition to our group and will help push the pace of practice everyday. ”

Lathan sees his decision as offering opportunity and excitement. “First thing, I am happy to be a part of Bison Nation, as a family we looked at the options that where on the table and looked at the value in each of them and I chose U of M, the key factors behind my decision first off was the unique opportunity to continue my educations and play football in Canada, this just don’t happen every day where I come from, playing football in Canada.” Chambers also shared his thoughts on the University. “The engineering department is one of the best in all of Western Canada, the facilities, educational and sport are very nice and they give you every opportunity to be successful in the classroom as well as the playing field and the last factor was Coach Dobie, I met him a couple of years ago on vacation and we have kept in touch, he is a straight shooter and that goes a long way back home.”

Head Coach Brian Dobie knows Lathan’s background will be an asset in preparation, and praised the young man’s decision to embrace the opportunity to leave home. “Coming to Winnipeg from Houston, a 2,500 kilometre drive, will certainly expose Lathan to a new culture. This is a unique decision to come to a new environment where Lathan will certainly have a different experience. Coming from a 5A school in Texas, at a major program, there is no doubt about the quality of coaching and his preparation to make the jump to the CIS.”

Bison Recruiting Co-Ordinator Chris Clement, who has never shied away from international recruiting, thinks Lathan Chambers is a good pickup regardless of where he’s from. “We are dedicated to bringing the best talent we can to Manitoba, and Lathan is a good fit for us as a program. We have had a long relationship with him and he has grown both physically and mentally. He comes with an excellent pedigree and will add an interesting voice to our locker room.”

The 17th recruit of the year for Manitoba, Lathan is also the fourth offensive linemen in a very strong Bison class. Lathan’s highlights can be seen at http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1877970/highlights/316084426