TRURO, N.S. – Matthew Shannon has been honoured for his efforts on the gridiron during the 2019 under-16 Eastern Challenge.
Shannon, a 15-year-old linebacker from Salmon River, was one of 40 players named to the tournament’s all-star team. The Eastern Challenge was held last summer in Kingston, Ont. The all-star team was named in November.
Québec won the championship and led the all-star selections by placing 19 on the team. New Brunswick fielded eight all-stars, while silver-medallist Ontario had seven and Nova Scotia had six.
“With so many talented players, this all-star list reflects the diverse pool of players that exists in the East,” Aaron Geisler, Football Canada manager of development, said in a release. “During the under-16 East Challenge, we witnessed speed, explosiveness and athleticism from the five participating provinces.
“After three years of this tournament, we can already see the impact and importance of this event on the national stage. Seeing the high level of competition in Kingston made the task of selecting all-stars very tough. Being selected as an East Challenge all-star is a major accomplishment and players should be proud of this special recognition.”
Shannon started playing football at age six in the Truro minor association. This past season he suited up for the Cobequid Cougars high school team, where the Grade 10 athlete was a starting outside linebacker, and by the end of the season was also CEC’s starting quarterback.
He was a member of the Nova Scotia U16 team for the past two seasons. In 2020, Shannon will try out for the Football Nova Scotia U18 team.
