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CFL courts two Corys 

By Daniel Rodrigues

For the past three and a half seasons, Stinger fans have grown accustomed to hearing the name ‘Cory’ announced as they watch football action. Come this May, all of Canada may get to hear the name called more than once.

This month, Concordia linebacker Cory Greenwood and slotback Cory Watson were pegged as top prospects for the 2010 Canadian Football League draft.

Evaluated by scouts, player personnel directors and general managers from the league’s eight teams, the pair placed third and 14th respectively among the country’s top 15 talents.

“It would definitely be a very special moment for me,” says Greenwood discussing the opportunity to be drafted. “I’ve dedicated a good chunk of my life to football.”

Both Kingston Ont.-native Greenwood and Dollard-des-Ormeaux Que.-resident Watson joined the Stingers at the start of the 2006 campaign and were quick to grab the attention of CFL scouts.

“I remember the date exactly; Oct. 2, 2006,” says Gregory Mohns, Assistant General Manager and Director of Player Personnel for the Toronto Argonauts. “I was watching game film with coach [Gerry] McGrath and both stood out, even as rookies.”

Since then, both fourth-season players have done nothing but make noteworthy plays. But what makes both players such attractive prospects is their ability to play in the game’s third phase – special teams.

“When drafting a player, especially with a top pick, you are looking for someone who can make an impact right away,” says Mohns. “Most often that impact will be on special teams, and Watson and Greenwood are both excellent special teams’ players.”

Aside from versatility, the 6’2” 235-pound Greenwood is described as having good size and speed as well as being a physically gifted individual with excellent football intelligence.

The 6’2” 204-pound Watson is said to have all the intangibles that make a good receiver: good hands, speed and route-running ability. But what sets him apart from many other receivers is the strong physical play he brings to the position.

“I’m honoured to be on the list,” said Watson. “But there is still a lot of time between now and the draft, so I need to continue to work hard because a lot can happen before then.”

For Stingers head coach Gerry McGrath, there is no doubt that both his players will be playing professional football.

“Greenwood and Watson have been tremendous players for our program these last few years,” he says, “and they will continue to be tremendous with whichever team they end up on.”

After four games this season, Greenwood leads all defensive players in the Quebec Student Sports Federation with 37 total tackles, including two sacks. Watson ranks first in Quebec with 288 yards receiving, second with 20 receptions and has scored one touchdown.