Josh Haczkewicz is joining the Regina Thunder. The graduating YRHS Raider Gridder is going to the Regina team this fall as wide receiver, after starting as slotback in camp.
The signing follows a successful high school career for Haczkewicz, who was co-captain of the Raider Gridders squad as well as a member of the Nissan Titan All-Canadian High School Team. His final season with the Raider Gridders was also the one where they won a Provincial championship, coming out on top of Bishop Mahoney. He was nominated for the Southern Sask. Football League Most Valuable Player Award, and won the Coach’s Award at the team’s year end banquet.
Haczkewicz said that for him, he’s enjoying the opportunity to keep playing and move his football career to the next level.
“I’ve been playing football since I was a little kid, so it’s cool to see it go all the way through and move on to the next level, it means a lot.”
He believes that his speed, that he runs good routes, and that he “catches the ball more than [he] drops it” that lead to him standing out to the Thunder.
“I’m happy I was able to get signed there.”
Haczkewicz is the second Raider Gridder to sign with the Thunder this year, with Josh Kidd also being signed to the Regina team. Haczkewicz is excited to get on the same team as Kidd again, and said they’re close friends, and were planning to room together before COVID-19 hit.
“It will be nice to have a familiar face to talk to in the room.”
With more Raider Gridder players getting signed, Haczkewicz said that it speaks to the strength of the program.
“It says a lot about our coaching, they really prepare us for the next level. The success we’ve had this season brings a lot of attention towards us, and there’s a reason for that. It’s because of the coaches, they do a great job.”
Of course, COVID-19 has made staying in shape a challenge, and Haczkewicz said he’s doing what he can, whether that means working out in the basement or getting his dad to throw the football.
“It’s all you can really do right now.”
Beyond football, Haczkewicz said that his time in Regina will also be spent studying for a degree in Business at the University of Regina.
No matter what happens, Haczkewicz is excited to play again as soon as he can.
“When you’re out on the field it’s like nothing else.”
