Lindsay Thurber Raiders defensive lineman Jordy Laumeka will play university football on the east coast of Canada next year.
The Red Deer teen has officially committed to the St. Francis Xavier X-Men program, which represents St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, N.S.
“They reached out to me last spring. Since then I’ve been in contact with them and received an offer, so I committed to them,” Lumeka said.
“It feels surreal, honestly. I didn’t think I’d get this far. But with all the work I’ve put in and all of the help I’ve received led me to this point.”
Lumeka didn’t get to play a Grade 9 season at Lindsay Thurber due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But he was able to play with the team from Grade 10-12.
“Going into Grade 10, we had a fresh new team – I didn’t really know anyone too well. That year we went to provincials,” said Lumeka.
“Last year was a bit of a struggle for the team, but this year we bounced back. It was an unfortunate end to this season in playoffs, but overall it was a good season.”
Lumeka’s family, a few teammates and members of the coaching staff gathered at Lindsay Thurber on Thursday to celebrate his commitment to the X-Men program.
“I’m so thankful and grateful to the people I have who helped me get to this place. At this point in my life, I wouldn’t be able to do it without them,” he said.
“From what I’ve seen, the (St. Francis Xavier X-Men) program sounds amazing. St. Francis is a nice school in a beautiful area. It’s not a big school, so I can get to know my teachers. I can’t wait to experience everything.”
Ole Stearns, head coach of the Lindsay Thurber Raiders football team, expressed excitement for Lumeka as he gets set to continue his football career beyond high school.
“This is well deserved. Jordy earned this and he’s going to do well,” said Stearns.
“He’s a leader and he’s a great example for others, not only in football, but in life. He’s got lots of enthusiasm and he’s respected.”
Stearns has been the Raiders’ coach for the past two years.
“He’s grown so much in the past two years and that comes from the effort he puts in. He’s in the gym quite a bit, he’s always asking questions and looking for ways to get better,” said Stearns.
sean.mcintosh@reddeeradvocate.com
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