Get to know U19 National Team Defensive Back Danny McWhirter

Danny McWhirter is a defensive back from Mount Albert, Ontario who will represent Canada at the 2018 International Bowl in Arlington, Texas as a member of the National Under-19 team.

The defensive back got his first introduction to the sport when he was approximately 12 years old.

“My dad was always talking about football with me,” he recalled.  “I just wanted to try it out.”

“I played hockey all my life but I thought it would be cool to try it out and I just fell in love with it ever since.”

During his career, McWhirter has suited up for York Simcoe Bucs of the Ontario Varsity Football League (OVFL) and Huron Heights Warriors of the York Region Athletic Association (YRAA).

Currently, the defensive standout is a member of the Ontario University Athletics’ (OUA) Carleton Ravens.

For McWhirter, his coaches have been a constant source of motivation and encouragement.

“They are still a huge part of my life,” he expressed.  “They are my parents away from home.”

“They are there taking care of me, making sure I get my school work done, get my priorities straight and they help me down a path to succeed.”

With his selection to the National Under-19 team, it will mark the second straight year McWhirter has represented Canada.  Last year’s North American Championship event was the highlight of his career.

“It was one of the most unreal experiences so far, just being able to go to the Pro Bowl and witness how everything worked and playing against some of the best players in your age group.”

Having the chance to participate in the 2018 International Bowl evokes a sense of excitement for the defensive back.

“Being able to represent your country is a whole different thing,” he emphasized.  “It’s a huge honour to be able to do that kind of stuff.”

This post is also available in: French