A Fort Saskatchewan football player has committed to a Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL) team.
18-year-old Parker Kellington, a former Bev Facey Falcon, will be taking his talents to B.C. to play for the Okanagan Sun.
"It's definitely one of those things where not everyone really gets a chance, and it's nice to reap the rewards of the work that I put in," said Kellington. "It's a nice feeling to be able to have a chance to keep going with my dreams."
The six foot two, 290lb offensive lineman is an impressive get for the Sun. Kellington says that maintaining his hefty frame while staying athletic is a job of its own.
"I like to take advantage of my metabolism, but weightlifting is something that doesn't go unnoticed when you try to get out to football teams like this," said Kellington. "If you want to have a chance, like I have been blessed with, to play at the next level, the weight room is kind of where it all starts."
As far as places to take that next step, Kellington chose a pretty good one. The Sun plays out of Kelowna, making it a scenic choice.
"A place like Kelowna is definitely not a bad spot to be, so that is definitely a bit of a bonus to have."
Though excited about taking the next step, Kellington says he will look back on his high-school career fondly.
"Talking to a lot of my teammates that graduated last year [told me] not to take this for granted," said Kellington.
One of the long-term goals that Kellington is interested in eventually pursuing is signing the dotted line for a CFL team.
Kellington will make the trip out to training camp near the end of May. His season will get going in early July.