Achi news desk-
Kyle Vantrease spent five seasons at the University of Buffalo before transferring to Georgia Southern for the final year of his college career.
That’s when the 25-year-old man came into his own. Vantrease completed 340 of 630 passes for 4,247 yards and 27 touchdowns.
Despite a record-setting career, Vantrease was not drafted, although he spent some time in minicamps with the Indianapolis Colts and the Tampa Bay Bucaneers.
With his quarterback prospects dwindling, Vantrease says he thought he’d try every former quarterback’s favorite backup gig: broadcasting.
“Last year I was a sideline reporter at Georgia Southern which was a lot of fun,” Vantrease said.
“Getting back on the field there and experiencing a little bit of the Georgia Southern atmosphere at Paulson Stadium was a lot of fun for me to get back out there.
“Even thinking I wasn’t playing,” he said, “it felt like I was still part of the team.”
Traded in his bike for football
After a year off, Vantrease was itching to get back on the field to do what he does best, being a quarterback.
So he traded in his mic for a playbook and signed with the Stampeders.
Vantrease says it’s great to be back.
“It’s actually been a year since I’ve been able to wear shoulder pads and a helmet,” he said.
“It was cool to be on the sidelines but there’s nothing like walking out there on the field and getting a throw, hearing the whistle blow and you’re part of it.”
“It’s special to be back out on the pitch and today (Wednesday) was great for me,” he added. “It almost helps you fall back in love with the game again and again every time you walk out there. I’m excited for tomorrow.”
Tough competition
The quarterback room is full in Calgary so Vantrease will have to be at his best if he wants to make the team.
Head coach Dave Dickenson says it’s all about getting noticed.
“You really have to take advantage of your reps,” Dickenson said.
“Most of the rookie practice the veterans are watching and I don’t really have them taking any live reps. Two of the other rookies were all here last year so Kyle has to make sure he continues to work hard and take advantage of his reps.”
Ready for the challenge
Vantrease says he learned a lot in his time with the Colts and Buccaneers and will use that in his quest with the Stampeders.
“The expectations I have are that I need to go in and make the most of every opportunity,” he said.
“Whether that’s in a team situation or whether that’s just throwing and showing my arm,” he added. field I am ready and willing to make the most of this opportunity.”
Vantrease and the rookies don’t have much time to make an impression. Main camp starts on Sunday, so you know there are plenty of cuts coming up.
