ST. PAUL - A night dedicated to honouring young football players from the St. Paul Lions and Bengals football teams took place on April 12.
A president's message, written by Brett Scrannage, was read out loud by long-time coach and football proponent Todd Tanasichuk. In his letter, Scrannage acknowledged how the past two years "have been extremely difficult on everyone."
A somewhat impromptu touch football season was held in 2020, which proved to be a success for younger football players. And in 2021, coaches got to work teaching the bantam Bengals team the basics of the sport.
"These athletes learned a lot," wrote Scrannage.
Before presenting a list of awards to the players, an even longer list of thank-yous was presented. Some of the players took turns at the microphone to thank the coaches from both football teams for their dedication and knowledge. Coaching the St. Paul Lions in 2021 was Mark Tichkowsky (head coach), John Lumby, Dave Mclellan, Kim Werenka, Steve Johnson, Maurice Brousseau, and Matt Kotowich.
Coaching the Bengals was Tanasichuk (head coach), Derek Zapisocki, Kurtis Stolth, Reuban Johnson, Brady Fodness, and Lane Peters.
Special thanks were also given to the coache's wives for their support during a busy and time consuming football season. The wives were referred to as the unsung heroes.
Thank-yous also extended to a long list of businesses who have again stepped up to sponsor the football club. Continued support from the Yaremko family, as well as special mention to the family of Randall Krys who passed away in October of 2020 was also made. Krys was a big supporter of St. Paul football and "we miss him for sure," said Tanasichuk. He described him as the type of guy who always said "yes."
While speaking to the crowd of parents and players, Tanasichuk also brought up the important role Werenka has played as an official on the field.
"It's a thankless job," but one that is necessary, said Tanasichuk. Earlier this year, it was announced that Werenka had been named the official of the year with Football Alberta for the 2021 season.
Another thank-you was given to Roger Girard for being the voice in the booth, announcing games and helping out on the field, always showing up to help clean the field when the snow flies.
Coach Tichkowsky also took time to speak to those in attendance, recalling the success the Lions had in 2021.
"We were close, boys," said Tichkowsky, adding, "We were green as green" but the players showed up with a great attitude.
The team played through a wind storm and other challenging conditions in 2021, and "we have a task ahead of us next (season)." Tichkowsky says his motto for the 2022 season is "unfinished business."
Tanasichuk spoke specifically to the Bengals' team, and recalled how it was one of the most enjoyable seasons he had ever coached. The players had exceptionally good attitudes, and they wanted to learn - and they did.
He commended the players for working hard, even when they were losing on the scoreboard.
Awards
A number of awards were handed out to players on both football teams.
Bengals manager of the year (first ever) - Kurt Yaremko
Lions Most Improved Award - Wyatt Pavoll and Loic Ndongwa
Bengals Rookie of the Year - Jacob Petruk
Lions Sportsmanship Award - Kieran Brousseau
Bengals Rookie of the Year Award - Kayden Taschuk
Lions Best Lineman Award - Krayghan Gratton
Yaremko Family Award for Most Heart - Sebastian Ang (Bengals)
Lions Best Defensive Lineman Award - Helmon Ndose
Claude Vachon 'Most contribution, less recognition' Award - Ethan Noel (Bengals)
Lions Leadership Award - Dorian Tomlinson
Bengals Offensive Lineman Award - Tim Cardinal
Lions Most Heart Award - Jeanathan Cheremshynski
Bengals Best Defensive Lineman Award - Kayden Deschover
Lions Rookie of the Year (Grade 10) - Zachary Quinton
Bengals Most Valuable Offensive Player - Ezra Kornelsen
Bengals Most Valuable Defensive Player - James Dadensky
Lions Rookie of the Year (Grade 11) - Ryan Fodchuk
Lions Defensive Player of the Year - Luke Germain
Randall Krys Leadership Award - Landon Peters
Lions Offensive Player of the Year - Ryan Fodchuk
Bengals MVP Award - Kayden Deschover
Lions MVP Award - Ryan Fodchuk
The St. Paul Football Club typically holds its awards night in December, but the event was postponed until April.
