Tommie footballer signs with college team

Garyth McLean, a standout in both football and basketball at James M. Hill, has been invited to play at Holland College, and has accepted.  McLean, a senior wearing number 27 for the green and gold, was a force for the much improved team

In the fall of 2016, high school football in Miramichi made a return after a 45 year hiatus (see related story HERE).  The last time football had been played in Miramichi before that was 1969 at Harkins High.  And this week the first Miramichi football player in  very long time has been selected to play at the college level.

Garyth McLean, a standout in both football and basketball at James M. Hill, has been invited to play at Holland College, and has accepted.  McLean, a senior wearing number 27 for the green and gold, was a force for the much improved team on both offence an defence, hardly ever taking a snap off. His quickness, toughness and stamina are his biggest weapons which helped him lead the Tommies to their third straight  River Bowl win (LINK), and an appearance in the NBIAA 10-Man playoffs after a 2-5 season, their best yet.

The Holland College Hurricanes issued the follwoing press release this week:

Garyth McLean, of Miramichi, New Brunswick, is set to attend Holland College this fall; he’ll be studying in the Welding Fabrication program while also playing football for the Hurricanes.

The slot back/wide receiver impressed many at the recent Hurricanes Spring Identification Camp in Cornwall, PEI at the Terry Fox Sports Complex, as well as at a recent recruiting day in Miramichi, NB.

Head coach, Stephen Letner, had the following to say about adding McLean to the roster.

“We’re looking forward to utilizing Garyth’s talents and abilities this season on the field. We’ll look to him to contribute immediately on our roster; he impressed everyone this spring with his offensive capabilities and we’re happy to have him join our team.”

McLean last played with the James M. Hill High School Tommies where he was the Miramichi Annual River-Bowl Most Valuable Player; he also served on the high school’s student council for the last two years.

“I set high standards for myself,” shared McLean. “I’m constantly pushing myself to give everything I have. My speed and decision making are my strengths; I feel I’m at my best in pressure situations.”

It was the trade offerings at Holland College that attracted McLean to enroll.

“I was very interested in the trade programs that Holland College has to offer,” he said. “I decided to enroll in Welding Fabrication as I felt it was a good fit for me, and sets myself up for a career upon graduation.”

The Hurricanes 2018 season ended with a loss to the Dalhousie Tigers in the Atlantic Football League championship game; McLean is focused on helping his new team have a strong season in 2019.

“I’m going to play with speed and the willingness to work hard every minute that I’m on that field. We’re going to show everyone what Holland College Football is all about.”

To view some of his highlights, see this viedo clip of #27