Alex Anthony named to Team World roster

Golden Hawk receiver set to play against Team USA in IFAF action
by Tieja MacLaughlin

WATERLOO - Wilfrid Laurier's Alex Anthony (Victoria, BC.) was recently named to the Team World junior football roster as one of the top players from across four different continents, aged 19 and under. Team World will face Team USA in Fort Lauderdale, Florida as part of Pro Bowl week in front of a live televised audience on the NFL Network.

"An opportunity like this almost never comes along," said Anthony. "I’ve represented my province and my country, but to play for the world is just surreal."

The kinesiology and physical education major made 21 catches for 330 yards, and completed four touchdowns in his 2009 freshman season with the Golden Hawks. Now he’ll have the chance to share the field with players from Germany, New Zealand, Japan, Mexico, Sweden, and France.

Before clenching a spot on the final roster, Anthony’s game film and stats were reviewed, his former coaches were asked for their input, and his workout logs were tracked. A list of 100 top-seeded players was eventually cut down to the 45 man final roster.

Anthony has represented Team Canada at the Junior National Football Championships, Team British Columbia for baseball, and has been named BC High School Athlete of the Year among other noteworthy accomplishments. The all around athlete and academic anticipates the experience that awaits him.

“This is the biggest game I’ve played to date,” said Anthony. “Especially in Florida and in the States where football is huge – we’re expecting a big crowd with upwards of thousands.”

The US junior national team will hone 45 of the country’s top high school football seniors, with 2009’s former championship winning coach Chris Merritt leading their squad. Team World will be lead by Swedish head coach Jan Jenmert.

The game will take place in the prestigious Lockhart Stadium following the AFC, NFL Pro Bowl practices. Tune in January 30th at 12:00 p.m. EST on the NFL Network to catch the action.