Get to know U16 West All Star Team Defensive Back Charlie DeLand!

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Charlie DeLand is a defensive back from Calgary, Alberta that will be participating in the 2018 International Bowl as a member of the Under-16 Western Canadian team.

A native of Haiti, DeLand moved to Calgary where his father opened his eyes to this sport.

“My dad took me to my first CFL game in Calgary and ever since then, I wanted to play football because I found it interesting” recalled the defensive back.

During his career, DeLand has played for the Calgary Cowboys organization at the atom, bantam, peewee and midget levels.  Additionally, he has suited up for the St. Francis Browns of the Calgary Senior High School Athletic Association (CSHSAA).

This past July, the defensive back helped Team Alberta win the gold medal at the Under-16 Western Challenge in Lethbridge.

“I had a great experience with those boys,” reflected DeLand.  “I knew most of them so it was lots of fun to play on the same football team with them.”

“Going out with Team Alberta was a great experience.  Playing with all the Edmonton kids was good to get to know them.  Since then, we have all bonded and hung out together and we’ve been great friends.”

DeLand’s main role model is his friend and local football player Simon King.

“We are the same type of people,” he expressed.  “We are both leaders and we step up.”

“We’ve played since atom together so we have great chemistry and he’s just a great human being to be around.”

The defensive back is grateful to have the chance to represent Canada at the 2018 International Bowl.

“I’d love to make sure that they know Canada is a great country in that our football teams are well trained,” added DeLand.