Cold Lake Royals strong safety Daniel Delorme-Crevier got the chance to shine on an international stage earlier this month, playing in the International Bowl.
Delorme-Crevier was one of 38 players selected to the Under-16 Team Alberta roster, which faced off against Team USA in Arlington, Texas on Feb. 3. The game was the first of a Canadian-American football triple-header hosted at AT&T Stadium, home of the National Football League's (NFL) Dallas Cowboys.
“It was an amazing experience for me,” said Delorme-Crevier. “I have never played in a stadium that big. It was great to stand where great NFL players have stood.”
Unfortunately the provincial squad was no match for the U.S. Under-16 National Team and came out on the wrong end of a 43-6 score.
“It didn't go the way we wanted, but it was a great experience and everybody enjoyed it,” said Delorme-Crevier.
While Team Alberta only managed one score, it was a highlight-reel touchdown by Jacob Biggs. The Calgary, AB. native stepped in front of a sideline pass and raced 90-yards to the end zone to cut the American lead to 20-6.
“It was great. The defence was really helping and trying to push the offence for another touchdown, but it didn't happen,” said Delorme-Crevier, who played parts of three quarters in the Alberta backfield.
“I think I played a good game. I made a few mistakes, but still played a good game.”
During his three seasons of bantam football and first season of high school football, Delorme-Crevier played positions on both offence and defence. He feels he is more of an impact on defence and was able to improve on his defensive skills during his time with Team Alberta.
“The coaches were great. They taught me a few things I didn't know and helped me improve the skills I already had,” said Delorme-Crevier.
While he plays for the Royals, Delorme-Crevier resides on the Fishing Lake Métis Settlement, a community 117 kilometres south of Cold Lake.
Of the 38 players on the Team Alberta roster he was the only one from a community north of Edmonton.
While the trip down south was a new experience for the Royals star, he hopes it isn't the last time he gets to show off his skills on an international stage.
“I really want to play at the next level. It is one of my goals. It would be huge for me,” said Delorme-Crevier.
He plans on trying out for the Under-18 Team Alberta this coming spring in hopes of being able to take another trip down south to face some top-notch competition.
“All those guys were great football players. It was a great experience playing against them. I hope to do it again sometime,” said Delorme-Crevier.
