Jack Bedell
CFL.ca
On March 6, 50 of Canada’s top football prospects will head to Toronto for the 2009 CFL Evaluation Camp to show off their abilities in front of CFL coaches and scouts.
With upwards of 700 players eligible for the CFL Draft, E-Camp provides the best shot at catching the eyes of CFL teams in preparation for the draft.
One player sure to be on everyone’s radar is former Bishop’s Gaiters running back Jamall Lee. At 6’1”, 220 lbs, Lee possesses a rare combination of size and speed that should translate to success in the league very quickly.
Before heading off to E-Camp, Jamall was gracious enough to take a few minutes to discuss his hopes for this weekend’s combine and beyond.
Q: Professionally, what does a chance to work out at the CFL Evaluation Camp mean to you?
I feel that working out at the E-camp will be a great opportunity to showcase all the hard work that I’ve put into my off-season training. Also, it will be a very beneficial to speak with the GMs, coaches, and scouts in order for them to see how I am on a more personal level.
Q: On a personal level, what would it take for you to consider the weekend a success?
I feel the weekend will be a success if I can meet and possibly exceed the expectations that I’ve put on myself as far as testing goes. If I can do that, and garner interest from the teams, I will be pleased.
Q: It’s been a while since Bishop’s season ended. What have you been doing in terms of preparation for e-camp?
I spent the last couple months training. I’ve been working on all the E-camp drills, also doing a lot of catching and running routes.
Q: Is there anything about the e-camp workouts that gives you anxiety?
I’d say the bench press gives me anxiety because it has always been a weakness of mine. But a lot of emphasis is put on the 40, so I could add that to the list as well. That said, I’m confident that all the work I’ve put in will help me overcome my nervousness.
Q: I know you follow the CFL pretty closely. Considering the way the game is played these days, what are some of the aspects of your game that will give you a chance to succeed in the league?
I think my size, athleticism, and work ethic will give me a chance to succeed. I am very confident that I can fit into any system. I believe I have the necessary tools both physically and mentally to make a solid contribution wherever a team may need me.
Jack B. Bedell is a Professor of English at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, Louisiana and has followed the CFL for nearly three decades.
