Get to know U18 All Star Team Running Back Adre Simmonds!

A’Dre Simmonds is a running back from Westphal, Nova Scotia who will represent Canada this upcoming January at the 2018 International Bowl in Arlington, Texas as a member of the National Under-18 team.

When Simmonds was seven years old, he got his first introduction to the gridiron.

“My dad brought me down to the field and I was watching the Dartmouth Destroyers practice,” recalled the running back.  “Ever since then, I wanted to be involved with it.”

Simmonds has suited up for the Dartmouth Destroyers organization and Saint Andrew’s College Saints of the Conference Independent Schools Athletic Association (CISAA).

As for the highlight of his career, the running back says it was his first game with the Saints.

“It was my first time moving away from home, my family wasn’t around but the guys around me made me feel more a part of their family,” reflected Simmonds.  “It was a great experience.

Last July, Simmonds participated in the 2017 Football Canada Cup in Wolfville as a member of Team Nova Scotia.

“It was one of the greatest experiences on Nova Scotia’s team because it’s a home crowd,” reflected the running back.  “My family and friends got to see me play.”

“This team was a really good team because everybody on the team was a close-knit group.”

Totally surprised when he learned the news he made the National Under-18 team, Simmonds hopes to seize the opportunity to play at the 2018 International Bowl.

“It means a lot; you get to represent your country,” expressed Simmonds.  “You get to wear the maple leaf across your chest and it’s going to be a great experience.”

“I can’t wait for it.”

Simmonds credits his father for being a main influence in his career and life.

“He’s always been there for me, coaching me up,” said the Nova Scotia player.

Additionally, he has followed the career of NFL great Adrian Peterson.

“I’m a pretty big fan of his,” added Simmonds.

This post is also available in: French