Gittens of Laurier is OUA MVP
Updated: Nov 17, 2018
BURLINGTON, Ont. – It was a season for the record books for Laurier Golden Hawks’ receiver KURLEIGH GITTENS JR. (Ottawa, Ont.) and for his efforts on the field, he has been named Ontario University Athletics (OUA) Most Valuable Player and the conference nominee for the U SPORTS Hec Crighton Trophy.
It’s no surprise that Gittens Jr.’s name can be found at the top of several statistical categories, as the First-Team All-Star on both offence and special teams was a dual-threat this year, helping the Golden Hawks to a second place finish in regular season play.
A consistent target for quarterback Michael Knevel, the third-year sociology major hauled in an OUA and U SPORTS record of 75 receptions, to go along with a nation-leading 953 receiving yards on the season. Beyond his silky smooth hands in the air, he also showcased his slick ability in the return game, which pushed his impressive all-purpose yardage total to 1,665 for the season – also leading the country – finding the endzone seven times – six receiving and one punt return.
Even without many one-on-one opportunities, Gittens Jr. battled numerous double teams to secure his MVP-type numbers. And despite the defensive presence, the 6’0” receiver remained as consistent a player as there was this season. Gittens Jr. racked up eight or more receptions in all but one of Laurier’s games, which included a total of 28 receptions and 288 yards receiving against the remaining top two OUA squads – Western and McMaster, respectively.
Gittens Jr. becomes the first Laurier MVP since 2014, when running back Dillon Campbell received the OUA honours, and the school’s fifth recipient all-time, joining the likes of Bill Kubas (1994), Ken Evraine (1987),and Jim Reid (1977).
Most Valuable Player – KURLEIGH GITTENS JR., Laurier Golden Hawks
