At a young age Nathan Raymond of Redvers loved sports: playing baseball, basketball, and more. It was while he was playing a basketball game that Murray Easton approached Nathan’s dad Tim about whether or not the already 6’2” 13-year-old was interested in football and potentially playing for the Moosomin Generals. It was this conversation that sparked a lifelong passion, which has led Nathan to compete for Team Canada as well as commit to the University of Regina Rams for his future with a letter of intent that came on Aug. 1.
“I didn’t think I’d be very good at it at first,” Nathan smiles remembering his first time playing. “I was bigger and felt slower, so I didn’t think I would be very good at it. But, I’ve only played three years of football and have found a lot of success in it.”
In that first year Nathan played he found his way not only onto the Moosomin Generals, but earned a spot on the South Sask Selects football team.
Which Nathan says, “I got lucky and made that team. They had such great coaching and it was an amazing experience. I’ve been hooked ever since.”
“We had a former pro who was a head coach and he really liked my attitude and the effort I was putting in; so, I was chosen for that team. And I was thinking that I wouldn’t have much time on the field, I still didn’t think I was very good, but we practiced throughout the winter in Moose Jaw and I even ended up being captain of that team.”
He played for Team Sask each year he has played football and has made Team Canada two years in a row now: “I’ve only played for three years and I’ve done quite a bit with it. I can’t thank my parents enough for supporting me through all of these opportunities.”
“We leave on Jan. 10 from Regina for Dallas, Texas – we get to play in the Cowboys’ stadium, which is really exciting – and we play on Jan. 17. The U18 and U19 teams will have a practice together before the 17th down there and from those guys they’ll select the Junior National Team. There’s only four guys from Saskatchewan on the U18 team and only one guy from Saskatchewan on the 19U team; and I was lucky enough to be selected twice.”
Nathan is a quiet young man who speaks of being lucky to be chosen and is grateful for the opportunities; but, it’s his silent determination and work ethic that has led him to where he is as “luck is a matter of preparation meeting opportunity.” ~Lucius Annaeus Seneca.
Not only did Nathan draw the eye of the Rams and other universities for his play on the field; but the young man finished grade 10 with an average grade of 95 percent, in grade 11 he concluded the year with a 90 percent average, and is currently sitting with an 89 percent average in grade 12. So, his focus, determination, and efforts are evident in all he does.
His intention for school at the U of R is to study Business and is looking forward to training as a Ram.
Presently, however, Nathan is thankful to be receiving support from two local businesses – Bedecs Ready Mix and BedRock Berries & Baskets.
“There’s all kinds of activities locally like hockey, but how often do you get to see and support a football player of this calibre?” Frank Bedecs (Bedecs Ready Mix) asked. “His grades over the last three years are a huge accomplishment as well and is a big reason for sponsoring him. He works hard at everything he does.”
Jo Bedecs added that Nathan’s character is why she decided to sponsor the young man: “For a young person to come in and look you in the eye with respect, it was impressive. You get tired of people asking for donations over the phone or through text. So, for Nathan to come in shake hands and make eye contact; it tells you a lot about his integrity. It was impressive. And that this is his second time making Team Canada, wow!”
“I can’t thank them enough, I can’t even put into words how thankful I am for their support,” Nathan stated. “I hope to accomplish as much as I can and let my actions speak louder than my words because I honestly can’t put into words how thankful I am for the support.”
Bedecs Ready Mix donated $1,000 and BedRock Berries & Baskets donated $400; together this covers the fees associated with playing for Team Canada.
