Skip to main content

NFL Way to Play

Advertising
NFLCA_WayToPlay_Graphic1 (1)

The NFL Canada Way to Play Award is a national initiative that shines a spotlight on high school-aged football players across the country who demonstrate exceptional playing technique and a commitment to safe, effective football. Launched in [YEAR], the program was developed to reinforce the importance of proper fundamentals at the grassroots level while celebrating the next generation of Canadian football talent.

Over the course of 10 weeks during the regular NFL season, one outstanding player is selected each week by a panel of experts from the NFL Canada Football Development Committee. These recipients exemplify the values of smart, skillful play—making an impact on the field while prioritizing safety and sportsmanship.

Each honouree is celebrated with a feature on TSN.ca and highlighted during a special segment on the NFL on CTV broadcast every Sunday. As part of the award, the athlete's high school also receives a $3,000 equipment grant through Football Canada, further supporting the growth of the game at the community level.

[Insert historical impact here – e.g., Since its inception, the Way to Play Award has recognized over XX athletes from XX provinces, contributing more than $XXX,000 in equipment grants to high schools across Canada.]

NFLCA_WayToPlay_Banner1 (1)
NFLCA_WayToPlay_Graphic2

Nominations for 2024 are now closed. Stay tuned for the 2025 season.

NFLCA_WayToPlay_Banner2
NFLCA_WayToPlayWinners_16x9_r2
NFLCA_WayToPlay_Banner3
Davis Sanchez

Davis Sanchez

NFL and CFL game analyst on TSN, Three-time Grey Cup Champion

Mike Thomas

Mike Thomas

Director of Operations, Football Saskatchewan and League Convenor, RYFFL

Aaron Geisler

Aaron Geisler

Executive Director, Football Ontario

Mark Harrison

Mark Harrison

High School Football Coach

Gord Grace

Gord Grace

President, Ontario University Athletics (OUA)

Karen Ouellette

Karen Ouellette

Executive Director, Football Nova Scotia

NFLCA_WayToPlay_Banner4
How long is the NFL Canada Way to Play Award program?

The NFL Canada Way to Play Youth Award is a 10-week long initiative that takes place during the regular season from Week 2 to Week 11.

How do I submit a nomination?

Nominate a high school football player for the NFL Canada Way to Play Award through our official submission form. Stay tuned for updates on when nominations for the 2025 award will open!

What is the age requirement for nominees?

Eligible nominees for the NFL Canada Way to Play Award must be high school football players who are no older than 18 years of age.

Who selects the NFL Canada Way to Play Award recipient?

The winner will be selected by a panel of six representatives from the NFL Canada Football Development Committee. More information about the committee is detailed in the above section.

What criteria is used to select the NFL Canada Way to Play Award recipient?

The NFL Canada Football Development Committee will select the player who demonstrates the most positive impact on the game through proper technique, including tackling, blocking, footwork, discipline, and vision.

Untitled design (2)