Humboldt Collegiate Institute’s (HCI) Tristan Hering definitely made an impression at the Saskatoon Hilltops spring camp.
The son of Ryan Hering and Deb Bender-Hering received the MVP award at the junior football team’s camp. The event was stocked with talented players looking to grab the coaches’ attention. The rush end impressed with his ability and attitude.
“We liked his motor, great work ethic and tenacity getting to the ball,” Saskatoon head coach Tom Sargeant said.
Hering, who was surprised to have received the award, greatly enjoyed going to camp with the 17-time national champions.
“The atmosphere,” Hering said when asked what was the best part. “It is just more intense than high school … Everyone just goes harder.”
Hering did notice some difference between junior football and the high school ranks.
“Your technique is more important,” he said. “You can’t win battles just through strength or speed any more.”
The Hilltops lost just four players from their 2014 Canadian Bowl title team. Sargeant plans on bringing eight new players to the team. Hering certainly impressed the coaching staff at the spring camp.
“He looked like a true Hilltop. He has a good role model in his brother, Tyrell, ahead of him,” said Sargeant, referencing Hering’s brother, a Hilltops defensive lineman.
When Tyrell Hering was going into Grade 11, he moved from Bruno, where the boys grew up, to Humboldt to play football. Tristan Hering followed his brother to Humboldt when the younger sibling was in Grade 9. He had quickly developed a passion for football.
“I just like the aggression,” he said.
At HCI, Hering became an important part of the defensive line. Last summer, he earned a spot on one of Saskatchewan’s teams in the Under-18 Canada Cup.
“Tristan’s strengths on the fields are realized through his incredible commitment to developing his strength and skill in his off season,” HCI head coach Cory Popoff wrote in an email interview. “His passion for the game of football drives him to succeed and achieve in this sport. “
“On the field Tristan is a warrior, and will literally take on two or three blocks before making a tackle. He gives 100 per cent every down regardless of the score.”
Hering also demonstrated impressive headship qualities on the gridiron.
“The best thing that I liked about coaching Tristan was his ability to rally his teammates to play harder right alongside of him,” Popoff wrote. “He modeled what he expected from his teammates on the field. Our other coaches will all agree that Tristan was an absolute pleasure to coach.”
The HCI sideline mentor said he was very happy for Tristan receiving this award. Popoff hopes Hering continues to work hard, prays he stays healthy, and can’t wait to see him play for the Hilltops. At spring camp, Hering took an important step towards suiting up for the celebrated junior franchise.
“He certainly came in and showed he is a Hilltop and has a bright future,” Sargeant said.
