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The Sault College Cougars Football program hosted their inaugural ID Camp from December 6th-8th, 2024 at the Northern Community Centre. More than 65 athletes travelled to Sault Ste. Marie from across Ontario and into the United States. Players had the opportunity to showcase their skills, learn from the coaching staff, and mingle with recruits and potential players.
The three-day mini-camp consisted of classroom and film sessions, two-a-day workouts, college and campus tours and culminated in a scrimmage on Sunday afternoon. Coaches had the opportunity to put players through vigorous individual training activities as well as in group dynamic drills.
“Building a college football team is a long process but this weekend we took a step in the right direction.” Head Coach Paul Orazietti shared, “Incredible energy and incredible talent at our camp.” It was an opportunity for the coaching staff to get a look at the out-of-town talent and see how they stack up with the local high school loop. “We put down the first building blocks of our program. We were thrilled with many of our recruits from out of town but even more so with our local players who only affirmed what a great football community we have,” added Orazietti, grinning at what looks to be a promising opening season.
The camp brought in a variety of prospective student-athletes, both familiar with the college and Sault Ste. Marie as well as those with little knowledge of the area. For Cousins, Sam Mustapha & TJ Olaware the opportunity at camp provided exactly what they were looking for when deciding their next steps in life.
Sam, a running back from the Essex County Ravens, rekindled his love for football during his summer season and credits the camp for solidifying his decision to join the Cougars. After meeting with Coach Orazietti, the decision was simple for Sam, “You can either win a championship or make a Champion, so let’s make one.” Sam made his move to North America as a youth and started playing football in Texas, then Ohio, and ultimately moved to Windsor, ON in high school before choosing to join Sault College.
TJ, who began his football journey in Texas after moving from Nigeria, also found his way to Windsor via Quebec. Despite being overlooked by other programs, the opportunity at Sault College was a perfect fit for his goals. “It was amazing being coached and absorbing their knowledge. It shows how much they care for us, investing the time to help us improve,” TJ said. “This was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up!”
The Cougars Football program now looks forward to their main tryout camp in March 2025. The Cougars will compete in their first season of the CJFL, starting in the summer of 2025 with all home games played at Rocky DiPietro Field. Stay tuned for updates regarding the program!
Source: Sault Cougars Athletics
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