Neumann's Notes: Protecting Quarterbacks & Canadians

CALGARY – University of Calgary offensive lineman Brad Armstrong knows what it means to serve and protect. He does it on the football field protecting the Dinos' quarterbacks. Off the field, he helps protecting Canadians in Canadian Armed Forces serving as naval reserve officer.

The 6-foot-5, 310-pound graduate of John Diefenbaker High School and the Calgary Mavericks program of the Calgary Minor Football Association is proud to do both while taking science courses at the UofC, majoring in Biochemistry. 

Armstrong is quick to point out the likenesses between the military and being on a football team. 

"Teamwork, the hierarchical structure with the chain of command, hard work, and being mentally strong are similar in both football and the military," stated Armstrong, who is from a military background. His father is a career counsellor in Canadian Armed Forces and his sister is a reservist in Halifax, N.S.

Armstrong attended an almost month training at Canadian Forces Base in Valcartier, Que., and attained his non-commissioned reservist ranking this past spring, forcing him to miss spring camp.

As a military reservist, part of his post secondary education tuition is paid if he passes his courses. 

"Being in the military gives you confidence and develops mental strength," the 23-year-old Armstrong stated. The Armed Forces are delighted that Armstrong is playing in football as it keeps him in top physical condition if called upon to serve. 

Offensive line coach Pat Sheahan is proud Armstrong is involved with the Naval Reserve and proud of his progress on the football field, earning the respect of his teammates for combining his military obligations with his football and academic commitments. 

"Brad has all the attributes of a senior offensive lineman. He actually started as a defensive lineman and has been a starter along the offensive line for the past two years," stated Sheahan. 

"I am proud of him (Brad) being in the Canadian military," stated Sheahan, whose father served in the Navy in World War II, and knows the commitment and discipline required to be in the military from his late father. 

Brad Armstrong - proud to be in the Armed Forces, but also honored to be a member of the offensive line for the Dinos football team.