UofT Varsity Blues offer prestige, tradition says commits

Toronto adds one GTA commit and one out-of-province commit to their Class of 2017.

Athlete Zaid Malik from St. Marcellinus Secondary School and running back Silas Trachilis from École Secondaire Kelvin School have the chance to etch their names into the rich history of the University of Toronto Varsity Blues this upcoming season and beyond.

Zaid Malik

Courtesy of Zaid Mailk.

Zaid Malik has his sights set on pursuing Law school after obtaining a business undergraduate in Rotmans Commerce. So, what better place to study than in what he calls one of the best business programs in the country?

“(It’s an) internationally recognized school,” Malik said. “The football program prides themselves on tradition and the coaching staff dedicates a lot of their focus to meeting your academic and athletic needs.”

The 6’0, 165lbs wide receiver was overall impressed with the Varsity Blues coaching staff. “The staff has a great image for the athletes where they must embrace both athletics and academics,” Malik said. “They understand the recruits’ position and they attempt to make you feel as comfortable as possible.”

Perhaps, even more important, is the coaches’ dedication to improving the team. “More than anything, they are determined to put the school on the map among the best football teams in the country and it shows when they coach,” Malik said.

Originally from Mississauga, Ontario, he played with the St. Marcellinus Spirit (Region of Peel Secondary School Athletic Association) and the Mississauga Warriors (OVFL). The 2016 season was kind to Malik, who was a ROPSSAA champion and his school’s athlete of the year. He also is a multiple medalist in track between 2015 and 2016. He will continue to hit the track with the Varsity Blues’ track team.

Silas Trachilis

Courtesy of Silas Trachilis.

Unlike his offensive counterpart, Silas Trachilis is not from the Greater Toronto Area. He is a prairie boy where he played with the Kelvin Clippers (Winnipeg High School Football League) in his hometown of Winnipeg, Manitoba. So, what drew him eastwards?

“UofT provides a great education along with a rich history in football,” Trachilis said.

Standing at 5’7, 170lbs, he is interested in taking Marketing and Management. He is a former team offensive MVP and he has participated in an AA championship game.

None of this, perhaps, would have been possible without his support networks. Trachilis said, “I would like to thank my mentor and training, Lamar McGriggs, and my trainers from Strive Therapies.”

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