The BYU Sports Insider December 2018, Volume 1 Edition 1 BYU BASKETBALL HITS THE PITCH IN FIFA

DECEMBER 2018 VOLUME 1, EDITION 3 SQUALLY CANADA INSPIRES WITH FOOTBALL AND MUSIC

COLLEGIATE ATHLETES: LIFE ON & OFF THE FIELD INSIDE SCOOP

THE FUTURE OF BYU FOOTBALL The BYU Sports Insider DECEMBER 2018 WHAT TO VOLUME 1 LOOK FOR EDITION 1

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22 The Y Photo Credit: BYU Photo unless other wise noted. The Y Photo Credit:

THE VERSATILE SQUALLY WEAPON CANADA on SUPER Inspires with the Saints GOLFER football and Rose Huang’s music BYU excellence BYU FOOTBALL ENERGIZER BASKETBALL Freshmen BUNNY Hits the pitch Spotlight Mary Lake’s in FIFA journey December 1, 2018

Dear Readers,

It was for people like you that I originally set out to create this magazine in the first place. The fact that you picked up a copy, likely from a stand outside one of your classes or on your way into the Cougareat, means there is a deep interest in BYU sports that goes beyond the box scores and statistics and; a yearning for quality content that brings you closer to the teams and gives you insight into the lives of players on and off the field.

What role does music play in the lives of athletes such as Squally Canada? What makes Rose Huang so super on the course and in the classroom? How were and the other football freshmen able to transition to easily to the college game and lifestyle? You see, sports culminate in the stuff we see on TV and in the stadium, but there is so much more that goes into them, creating a world and culture in and of itself that impacts the rest of society as well.

Sports touch so many different aspects of our lives, and even though there is no way we can cover all of them in a single issue, we tried our best to create something new and interesting that starts with wanting to know what happened to our defense against State, and ends with finding out that the player you thought you knew so well on court has a whole life off of it as well. Along the way we hope to enter- tain as well as inform, as we get to know The Y.

Editor,

The Y, Editor in Chief Photo Credit: Ari Davis THE FRESHMEN By Caleb Turner able to rise calmly and confidently against Hawai’i, Wilson was the The Y to the occasion. starting , the youngest Wilson got his first taste of in BYU football history. For his first three games as BYU football in the final quarter of BYU football is experiencing a Cougar, highly-touted freshman a lopsided victory over McNeese what is best described as a “youth quarterback Zach Wilson had to State on Sep. 22. Then on Oct. 5 movement” this year. With injuries watch from the sidelines as senior against Utah State, Wilson once and poor performance plaguing led the Cougars again came in for Mangum, this many of the upperclassmen, the to impressive wins over Arizona time down by double digits, and freshman class has been forced to and No. 6 Wisconsin. Still, Wilson threw his first . It was step up and play a larger role than said he prepared every week as if almost poetic, as Wilson threw to usual. he was going to start so that when fellow freshman Gunner Romney BYU has played 25 fresh- the opportunity came to get playing for the wide receiver’s first BYU men this season, and 11 of those time, the 19-year-old freshman was touchdown as well. The next game, have started games for the Cou-

4 The December 2018 gars. Against Hawai’i on Oct. 13, tailing the life of Wilson, and said ney, who may not be as familiar the team started seven freshmen, he now considers him to be one of with the ins and outs of life in the including six on offense. To give his best friends at BYU, despite not Beehive State. some context, only Minnesota has knowing each other prior to this The group of freshmen from started more freshmen on offense year. Utah also includes Lopini Katoa in a game, with seven. Freshmen and Dallin Holker, both of whom have accounted for just over half of A good thing about have started for the Cougars and BYU’s total scoring this year with “ contributed important plays and 95 of the Cougars’ 182 total points. having so many scoring opportunities for the of- Though he wasn’t the first to fense. start, Wilson has led this movement freshmen is we can “I definitely hoped to play, as the face of the freshman class. always ask each other I thought I had a good chance,” Wilson came to BYU as a four-star Katoa said of playing early. “I felt recruit from Corner Canyon High and learn together... like I was getting used to the col- School in Draper, and put on an lege game quickly, but I just didn’t impressive performance during But‘ it’s always in the know. I knew I would have to fight spring and fall practices to earn the back of your mind that for (the starting spot) because there starting spot midway through the are a lot of good running backs. season. you’re competing It doesn’t feel like I’m new just Romney traveled a little far- because we’ve been going for so ther than Wilson to come to BYU, With them...” long.” from his hometown of Chandler, -DAX MILNE Katoa served a mission before Arizona, and didn’t know many BYU Freshman Football Player coming to BYU, and redshirted players on his arrival. This is the last year, so his freshman experi- case with many first-year players Milne and Romney both start- ence may not be quite the same as coming to play at BYU, leaving ed for BYU against McNeese State, those who were in high school just home for the first time and enter- and one of the two have started last year. New NCAA rules allow ing the fast-paced world of college each of the last five games. Milne coaches to play freshmen for up to football. Luckily, Romney came added that the young wide receiv- four games and still redshirt them, to a BYU football that prides itself er group, which includes his high opening up new opportunities and a on brotherhood, and has joined a school teammate, Brayden Cosper, tight-knit wide receiver group that has gotten help from fellow starter features several freshmen, such as and team captain Micah Simon. Dax Milne, who start alongside “He took me and Brayden him. Cosper in from the very start and “It’s been different, I mean just helped us with the playbook,” college itself is a lot different from Milne said. “He has been a good high school,” Milne said. “BYU is friend to us and I appreciate that.” different from other places too. It’s Milne attended Bingham taken me a second but I think I’m High School in South Jordan adjusting.” with Cosper, and grew up playing Luckily they are not alone, against many of his current BYU and just like it happened with teammates, including Wilson. Wilson and Romney, the chemis- The friendships that already ex- try and connections formed on the ist among those from Utah have field help to create a new bond and allowed for them to adjust more brotherhood. Romney was recently easily to the college environment featured on a BYUtv special de- and welcome those, such as Rom-

December 2018 The Y Magazine 5 One unique aspect of the leaders on the team, we hang out to make an impact immediately on situation at BYU, however, is that with them a lot.” the team. He formed part of one of the expected starters and more The veterans on the team are the deepest groups on the offensive experienced players have willingly equally impressed and grateful for side of the ball, playing alongside given up time on the field and help the freshmen and surprised by their Freshman All-American Matt the younger players for the best maturity and ability to adapt and Bushman. interest of the team as a whole. even thrive so quickly at the next When Moroni Laulu-Pututau The aforementioned Mangum and level. Following the game against tore his ACL at UMass, even more Simon both came into the season as Hawai’i, Wilson’s first start when opportunities opened up for Holker, team captains and sure-fire start- he threw for three and and he took advantage. Although ers, looking to lead the team after ran in for another, senior Dylan his only score came against Ha- paying their dues for several years. Collie had nothing but praise to wai’i, he went for 20-plus receiving Midway through the season, how- heap on the 19-year-old signal yards in four of the final five games ever, Simon and Mangum found caller. of the season. He is fourth on the themselves playing less and cheer- “To come in and play as confi- team in total receiving yards with ing on their younger teammates dent and be as confident as he was, 214 and averages almost 12 yards from the sidelines. to be honest with you I don’t think per catch. Both captains, along with a lot of kids could do it,” Collie Though the transition hasn’t several other upperclassmen who, said. “Zach did it, and he’s going been perfect and some difficult whether due to injury or playing to continue to do it because I know lessons were learned along the situation, have gracefully taken that his preparation will continue way, the experience gained by a backseat as far as playing time to stay the same. I can attest to these freshmen will be invaluable goes, and helped make the transi- the fact that he has prepared as if for themselves and the team going tion for the youth movement much he were a starter since week one. forward. smoother and efficient. Wilson says I have a lot of faith in him and I he considers Mangum and Simon know that everyone else does too.” to be some of his best friends on Out of the five freshman the team, and the two who have starters that have played key roles taught him the most as far the col- in the offense, tight end Dallin lege game and how to adjust to his Holker is the only to have played in new life on and off the field. every game. A true freshman out of “We’re all super close,” Wil- Lehi, Holker came in with a col- son said. “The older guys who are lege-ready mind and body, ready

Gunner Romney carries in the touch- down off a pass from fellow freshman Zach Wilson against Utah State. It was Photo Credit: Ari Davis the first score for either player at BYU.

6 The Y Magazine December 2018

8 The Y Magazine December 2018 Photo Credit: Abigail Keenan ENERGIZER BUNNY By Josh Carter about tearing her ACL. “Coming only CIF championship of its entire The Daily Universe back from it definitely wasn’t a history. walk in the park.” “Mary was practically the It was just another routine play Although she did have her whole reason we won that CIF as Palm Springs High senior libero final year cut short, her career at championship,” Wilhoite said. Mary Lake jumped up to spike the Palm Springs was nothing short volleyball on the other side of the of phenomenal, as her stats were net. among the best the school had ever “She fell down and let However, there was nothing seen. out a blood-curling scream, routine about what happened next. Lake had a total of 404 digs we knew it was trouble.” “We were playing doubles her freshman and sophomore years - GARY WILHOITE, and Mary went up to hit a ball playing varsity and 963 assists. Her Palm Springs High School Volleyball Coach that was set a little tight,” Palm junior year, however, she nearly Springs coach Gary Wilhoite said. doubled her career total of digs “She came down and her knee with 386 and added 614 assists. After a dream ending to a blew up. She fell down and let out Not only did the stats show solid junior year, a big senior year a blood-curdling scream, and we just how good Lake was that year, was inevitable for Lake. However, knew it was trouble.” but she also led her team to a CIF one wrong landing made it so the Lake tore her ACL and her Southern Section Division 2A 5-foot-7-inch libero never got the high school playing days were championship — the equivalent of chance to find out. over. a state championship in most other Lake, however, had already “It was really hard,” Lake said states. It was the team’s first and accepted a scholarship offer from

December 2018 The Y Magazine 9 BYU at the time and was planning Although a scary moment fo brings the energy.” on graduating from high school both Lake and the Cougars, Lake early to start training with the Cou- recovered much quicker from this gars. Although she was nervous to injury and was ready to play when “She’s our energizer inform the coaches at BYU about the season began. BYU Coach bunny and our the injury, they kept their faith in Heather Olmstead praised Lake’s backcourt captain.” Lake that she would make a speedy resiliency and work ethic through- - HEATHER OLMSTED, recovery and return to full strength. out her recovery process. BYU Women’s Volleyball Coach “The scariest call was when I “Mary’s been able to focus talked to the coaches here (at BYU) on what it is she wants, and so she after I tore my ACL,” Lake said. works hard,” Olmstead said. “She Mary Lake is a big reason “But they were actually so nice to was able to get in a good place to why No. 1 women’s volleyball is me about it. They told me, ‘We’re where she was able to help us out still undefeated this season. (BYU not worried, you’ll rehab and you’ll her freshman year.” Photo) be fine, so just stay positive.’ That Lake had a total of 547 digs Olmstead also talked about was the most calming thing, just her freshman year and 120 as- how important Lake has been how great the coaches were with sists. She had similar numbers her whenever the team travels to play me.”After going through rehab and sophomore year with 533 digs and on the road. working hard all off-season long, 131 assists. In the first 18 matches “It’s easy to have energy at Lake was ready to start her college of her junior year so far, Lake has home, everybody’s excited to play career. However, just before the piled up 238 digs and 60 assists. at home,” Olmstead said. “But on start of her freshman season, Lake “Mary’s our energizer bun- the road, it’s a little different of an injured the same knee she had just ny,” Olmstead said. “She’s our environment. There’s a different worked so hard to rehab. backcourt captain. She’s talking pressure and stress, so Mary’s good “A month before my freshman about our seams, she’s helping the at keeping us calm and keeping us season, I tore my meniscus,” Lake passers be steady there and she’s focused.” said. “I had to have surgery, and always going for every ball. She’s Wilhoite said Lake has always was out for a couple of weeks.” scrappy, and she been the ultimate competitor and wanted more than anything for her team to succeed and come out on top. “Mary hasn’t had a whole lot of losing in her career,” Wilhoite said. “Just stay out of her way and let her go.” Lake admits that although it hasn’t been easy, her love for the sport of volleyball is what helped her overcome both injuries. “I think that when you love playing the sport, doing hard things just comes because you want so badly to play,” Lake said. “That’s what got me through everything. If I didn’t love volleyball so much I wouldn’t have gotten through it.”

10 The Y Magazine December 2018 December 2018 The Y Magazine 11 12 The Y Magazine December 2018 SUPER GOLFER Rose Huang leads the BYU Women’s golf team

By Caleb Turner course, earning recognition on the cially among women. Many of her The Y state, national and world stage with competitors received offers from both her high school and Hawai’i high-profile programs such as USC Ever since her parents enrolled state teams. She caught the eye of and UCLA, forcing Huang to doubt her in a children’s golf program BYU head coach Carrie Roberts her own chance of landing an offer in her hometown of Honolulu, when a family friend and professor from one of her top choices. Hawai’i, Rose Huang’s life has at BYU first made her known to the “Somehow BYU saw potential revolved almost entirely around staff. in me and they invited me to come the sport. When she came to BYU, for a visit that fall,” Huang said. Huang was forced to balance her Somehow BYU saw “I came to visit in November and time between her social life, a more “ I loved it here. I loved the girls on rigorous academic load and more potential in me and they the team, I loved Coach Roberts, intense competition on the course. invited me to come for the campus, everything about it.” The years of dedication to her Huang’s place on BYU’s team sport and increased maturity have a visit that fall. and among college competition allowed Huang to develop into an ” has never been questioned, but - Rose Huang elite talent and set her on a course that doesn’t mean her transition to to possibly go down one as of the “I recruited her quite young,” being a Division I student-athlete best golfers in BYU history. Roberts said. “I was pregnant when has been easy. Though not members of The we heard about her so my assistant “It was kind of hard to have to Church of Jesus Christ of Lat- coach went out to see her. There dedicate so much time to golf,” ter-day Saints, Huang’s parents was a year when she kind of strug- Huang said. “The balance between attended BYU-Hawaii and were gled but we hung with her.” school and golf had still been somewhat familiar with the church Huang herself acknowledged more school-centric for me in high and its members. They enrolled the rough season she had her junior school. Ever since coming to BYU, Huang in a golf program for chil- year of high school and said she because of all the traveling during dren at an early age hoping she didn’t expect to receive any offers the season and having to sched- would one day be good enough to from schools. According to Huang, ule classes around these kinds of earn an athletic scholarship to at- the amateur golf competition is things, it’s made golf a bigger part tend college. Huang excelled on the fierce in the state of Hawai’i, espe- of my life.”

December 2018 The Y Magazine 13 Though Huang said she had to personal and thought-out gift with person who helped me find out sacrifice some of her time previ- the cutest note,” Anna Kennedy about BYU and ultimately led me ously spent on social interaction, said. “She is the busiest person I to be at this school.” her teammates and relationships know, but always takes time for Every golfer said this is one within the program have helped each and and every teammate. I of the most united and tight-knit make up for it. think that speaks to her selfless- teams they have ever been a part “They bring me ice cream when ness and the type of leader she is. of, due in large part to the selfless I’m down,” Huang laughingly said. She cares about each of us off the example of Huang. “They’re the best teammates ever. course just as much as she does on “It’s incredible because Rosie I’m sure people always say that, the course.” is such a great person with such but because our team is so small Fellow Hawaiian Allysha Mae great talent but my whole team is and compact we are really close. Mateo is in her first semester at like that. It’s a group of the nicest They’re honestly the best friends I BYU, but in her short time has people I’ve ever met in my life,” could ask for.” already seen the impact Huang has Naomi Soifua said. “I love my Huang’s teammates were quick on the team, and echoed Kennedy’s team and how quickly we were to deflect praise back onto the sentiments. able to connect and get along. Ask squad’s only senior, and also com- “With both of us being from anyone who knows us and they’ll mented on why they believe this Hawai’i and seeing her success tell you the same – there’s no other group is so close and enjoys spend- throughout the years since we were team more united than us.” ing so much time together. in junior golf, she was definite- Freshman Annick Haczkiewicz “Anytime one of us has a birth- ly a role model for me,” Mateo mentioned specifically the great day Rose gives that person such a explained. “Rose was actually the example Huang is in her studies,

14 The Y Magazine December 2018 mances and three top-five finishes. Huang took first place at the WCC Tournament before finishing fourth at NCAA Regionals and 21st at nationals. Her 2017-18 scoring average and career average of 72.82 both sit among the Top 50 in NCAA women’s golf history. “I’m not at all surprised by what she’s accomplished at BYU,” Rob- erts said. “She is a great player and she came in good. She is just so aware and has so much knowledge of herself and her game. She knows what to do and what to fix.” adding that she even tutors other “I would love to work in the Roberts explained that while athletes on the side just to be nice. food industry,” Huang said. “Food Huang has a very kind and gen- “We call her an angel because science is more like food produc- tle demeanor in everyday social she is perfect,” Haczkiewicz said. tion and research and development, interactions, she is able to flip the “She is such a team player and like making new ice cream flavors switch when it comes to golf and always always always has a smile and formulating a protein shake. can outcompete anybody on the on her face.” With the supply chain major I course. Huang considers herself the would like to do the managing part “When she wants something “nerd” among her teammates, of the food industry.” she goes and gets it,” Roberts said. especially because of her obsession Huang plans to stay an extra “There’s just no stopping her. If she with superhero TV shows such as year after her golf eligibility runs doesn’t want you to beat her she Supergirl and Flash. In addition to out to focus solely on academics won’t let you beat her.” superhero TV shows, Huang is a and then wants to try her hand in The women’s golf season starts fan and avid watcher of all the lat- the pros for a little bit because, as up again in February, with the team est Marvel movies, including Thor, she said, “Why not?” traveling as far as Puerto Vallar- Spiderman and the Avengers. ta, Mexico as part of their spring “It’s so nerdy but I love super- I’m not at all season, culminating at the WCC hero anything,” Huang said. “My “ Championship. teammates will tell you that I’m the suprised by what she’s most obsessed person with super- accomplished at BYU . hero anything.” ” As far as the academic side of - Carrie Roberts BYU Women’s Golf Coach things, Huang has taken on a full load and maintains a high standard Playing professionally might for herself. She is a three-time have seemed like a tougher pros- All-American Scholar and member pect prior to last season, but after of the WCC Commissioner’s Hon- an appearance at NCAA Nationals or Roll with a current GPA of 3.66. and setting several BYU records, Huang is pursuing a double major the sky is the limit for Huang. in food science and global supply She broke the school record for chain after being admitted into the the best individual season scoring Marriott School of Business over average with a 71.43 last season, the summer. including three under-par perfor-

December 2018 The Y Magazine 15 FANATICS

By Caleb Turner when they hit the road. Sometimes basketball as is.” The Y other teammates join, but the trio Playing FIFA helps them of Haws, Troy and Cannon are the bond and have fun as a team, while After a grueling practice in most devoted. still maintaining their competitive the , TJ Haws, In order to maintain fairness nature. Even though it’s a video McKay Cannon and Evan Troy and not give any advantage the trio game and intended to help them de- made their way up to the team’s plays with random teams, and keep stress, they take it very seriously. film room. The room serves to a running of record of who leads “If you don’t respect the game study past performances and scout the head-to-head matchups between you’re out,” Haws said, who went upcoming opponents, but has also the three of them.Cannon and on to give Cannon a yellow card turned into the go-to hangout spot Haws both served missions where for talking too much during the and FIFA proving ground. soccer is very prevalent, Cannon in match. “It all started during the World Chile and Haws in France, causing The three agreed that Cannon Cup,” said Troy. “They made us them to gain interest in a sport that is the best at playing soccer in real play soccer for conditioning over is still growing here in the U.S. life because he’s quick, while Troy summer, and we watched the World “I think soccer will continue has the most finesse out of the trio. Cup matches as a team.” to grow as football decreases (in The group also followed the local When the latest game, FIFA popularity) in the U.S.,” Cannon Major League Soccer team, Real 19, came out in September, the said.When asked why they choose Salt Lake, who made a run in the team bought a copy, and now they to play FIFA instead of a basket- playoffs before getting eliminated play it once a week or so after ball video game such as NBA 2K, by Sporting Kansas City in the practices and in their hotel rooms Cannon replied, “We play enough second round.

16 The Y Magazine December 2018 SQUALLY

CANADA Photo Credit: Jordan Lee By Caleb Turner at BYU. He then finished the sea- Washington State. Running backs The Y son on a high note with 113 yards coach AJ Steward explained that and two touchdowns in BYU’s Canada emerged as the leader Squally Canada had one of the season-finale win against Hawaii. among the position group early in most daunting tasks entering his In total, Canada was BYU’s fall camp. junior season in 2017: follow up a leading rusher on the year, totaling “Not only am I impressed record-breaking senior season from 120 carries for 710 yards and six with what he’s done physically, but BYU’s all-time leading rusher, touchdowns. For his career, Canada mentally he’s developed as a play- Jamaal Williams. Canada opened has 263 carries for 1,361 yards and er,” Steward said. “He’s the oldest the 2017 campaign with 98 rush- 13 touchdowns. guy in our group as far as playing ing yards and a touchdown against “I didn’t want there to be any years and I’m very pleased with his Portland State before the Cougars slack left from Jamaal,” Canada maturity and his want for our team went on a five-game losing streak said. “His number is 21 and mine is to be successful.” during which Canada totaled just 22: one-two punch.” 107 yards and no touchdowns. Canada finds himself in The Cougars broke their prime position to follow his fellow “Not only am I impressed losing streaking against San Jose Californian’s footsteps in using a State and Canada’s numbers slowly standout senior season at BYU in with what he’s began to climb again, including an 2018 as a springboard to reach his done physically, but 84-yard, one touchdown game at goal of the NFL. Fresno State. The very next week, He entered this season as a mentally he’s developed Canada peaked in a 213-yard per- veteran starter on offense, a far formance at UNLV in November cry from the transfer student that as a player,” that ranks No. 10 among all-time arrived at BYU in 2015 following single-game rushing performances an injury-riddled redshirt year at -AJ STEWARD BYU Running Back Coach

18 The Y Magazine December 2018 When head coach Kalani stem from lessons his father taught Sitake began his search for a new “If you have knowledge him. These traits are compounded offensive staff last year he made to share with some- by a strong desire to win games no sure to hire coaches who under- matter the individual attention he stood the run game. He believes body, share the knowl- does or doesn’t receive. the new scheme and Steward are a “My dad tells me, ‘If you great fit for Canada. edge. It’s not good to have knowledge to share with “I think it’s good timing for hold back any type of somebody, share the knowledge. him,” Sitake said. “I think he’s re- It’s not good to hold back any type ally responding well to AJ Steward knowledge.” of knowledge,” Canada said. “Even as a running backs coach and this if it might come back and hurt me offense suits him and his skills a -Byron Canada and one these guys ends up beating little more. He’s a downhill runner Squally Canada’s Father me or whatever, I’m not worried. and he has great speed and a good The best man is going to play and feel for the game.” that’s all that matters. As long as Sitake also mentioned the im- Lopini Katoa said he has we win more than four games and pact Williams had on Canada as a learned a lot from Canada’s ex- do way better than last year. I want mentor or “big brother,” as Canada perience and appreciates how to win.” called him, a role the senior is now open Canada is in helping out the Canada’s parents, Byron and trying to mimic with this year’s un- newcomers and preventing mis- Stacy, have always encouraged derclassmen. He can often be seen takes that have hurt the team in their son to be generous with what coaching his fellow running backs, the past. Following an intense fall he’s been given and help those and even sticks around long after camp practice in the heat of the around him. Growing up in Milpi- practice has ended to get in extra afternoon, Katoa was impressed tas, California, Canada was often reps and build chemistry among the when Canada offered to help give surrounded by cousins and other position group. him additional guidance. Canada relatives that his parents took in “If I see something wrong I and Katoa removed their pads and when drug abuse tore apart his just try to correct it – it’s the right continued to walk through plays on extended family. Stacy recalled thing to do,” Canada said. “If I their own, with Canada explaining always having anywhere between get the starting job and I get hurt, where to go and how to handle the 10 to 15 kids in her home, some- I don’t want the backup to be out ball with his freshman counterpart. thing that helped her own children there clueless.” Canada’s selflessness and learn a lesson on generosity they Freshman running back willingness to share his knowledge wouldn’t soon forget.

“Good Comes Back to YOu.”

-Stacy Canada Squally Canada’s Mother

“You have to have a heart of giving,” Stacy explained. “Good comes back to you.” This spirit of giving is some- thing that defines Canada to this day as he plans to use football and

December 2018 The Y Magazine 19 his budding music career as a tool moment is to make it to the NFL, allowed Canada’s parents to accept to help and inspire others, rather a childhood dream. Early on in his his decision to transfer schools than just seek fame and riches. elementary education, Canada drew from Washington State to BYU, “I want to give back to my pictures of himself playing football despite not being a member of The parents and people that are less and wrote on a homework assign- Church of Jesus Christ of Lat- fortunate,” Canada said. He also ment that his dream was to play ter-day Saints. hopes to become the first person in professional football. “As a man you make the best “Will Smith said he never had decisions for yourself and maybe a Plan B because Plan B distracts God had other plans for him,” By- “I want to give back from Plan A,” Canada said of his ron said. “Once it worked at BYU NFL goal. we were all in, as far the Christian to my parents and From the beginning it was background, because he’s been people that are clear that Canada had the drive raised in the church.” and motivation to reach the NFL, His talent and aspirations on less fortunate” but the path he’s taken thus far has the field gave Canada an outlet been in a style all his own. that many of his close friends and “When everyone else wanted relatives didn’t have. This became -SQUALLY CANADA Jordans, he wanted PF Flyers,” his especially noticeable when trage- mother Stacy said on his choice of dy struck the family last year with his family to get a college degree, shoes. “He never got into trouble the passing of Canada’s cousin, something he values even more and played different than other Vinshay Bracy. Entering his junior than success on the field. kids.” year full of expectations, Canada Make no mistake, however, It was this desire to do things used the adversity to push him even Canada’s one and only goal at the right and in his own way that harder, releasing his frustration and

20 The Y Magazine December 2018 pain out on the field during practic- younger generation and people that music in the future, though nothing es and games. go through the same situations I has been released or announced as Canada still listens to his did,” Canada said. “I want to be of yet. cousin’s mixtape before each game someone that kids can listen to and Canada is at the forefront of to honor him and wears a tattoo release their emotions.” the rap scene at BYU, with sever- across his torso with Bracy’s rap Canada currently has over al athletes citing famous hip-hop moniker “ShadyBo.” 17,000 listens and 370 followers on artists such as Drake and Migos as Now entering his fourth SoundCloud, with his most popular their go-to music before games or and final year of , track being “Stand Us,” the first practices to pump them up. Canada knows that he’ll have to track off his mixtape, On My Way. Golfer Rose Huang listens leave everything out on the field He cites Tupac and Kid Cudi as to Drake’s album “Scorpion” on because nothing is guaranteed some of his favorite artists and big- repeat when she goes for drives up after this season. gest influences on his own music. Provo Canyon, one of her favorite “I’m just trying to give it my It’s hard to find time to record pastimes since arriving at BYU. all,” Canada said. “The NFL isn’t new songs with the busy schedule Tight end JJ Nwigwe also promised, football isn’t promised of a Division I athlete, but Canada listed Drake as his favorite artist after this, so I’m just out here every said he tries to find time to sit down to listen to as part of his pre-game play just making sure I don’t make and write new lyrics when possible. routine, not too surprising for the any mistakes.” Canada recently returned home to best-selling hip-hop artist of 2018. Steward believes his veteran Milpitas during the offseason to Defensive back Dayan Ghan- senior has what it takes to be a shoot a music video entitled “Can’t woloku switched things up by pick- great running back and wants to Stand Us.” The video was released ing Atlanta-based rap group Migos, help him maximize those talents on YouTube on Sept. 6. who he listens and dances to as part and finish off his college career BYU teammate Chris Wilcox of his ritual before games. strong. also works in the hip hop industry “He has one of the highest creating his own beats and plans to IQs of a running back that I’ve collaborate with Canada to create ever been around,” Steward said. “He has a knack to make it through tight spaces and great vision, so many things that you can’t coach. He puts the work in and he wants to be great. I want him to leave here knowing he’s given it his all.”

Squally Canada leading BYU rap scene

Off the field, running back Squally Canada is pursuing a rap career to show people his life out- side of football and inspire youth and people in less fortunate situa- tions. “I want to be able to use football or music to inspire the

December 2018 The Y Magazine 21 r AP Photo Credit: Daily Advertise

22 The Y Magazine December 2018 ONE VERSATILE Photo Credit: Salt Lake Tribune WEAPON

By Jackson Payne threw for 6,929 yards and 43 touch- The Pocatello, Idaho, native has The Daily Universe downs while adding 2,815 yards also seen reps at receiver, tight end and 32 touchdowns on the ground. and an occasional passing or rush- Taysom Hill has never been a Hill’s 9,744 career yards of total ing attempt at quarterback. So far conventional football player. offense rank fourth in BYU histo- this season, the 28-year-old has two aren’t supposed ry, ahead of legends such as Steve pass completions on trick plays, to be built like a linebacker and Young and Jim McMahon. 157 rushing yards with a touch- run a 40-yard dash in 4.4 seconds. “What makes BYU unique is down and 11 kick returns. They aren’t supposed to come back playing for a team and a school that “It’s kind of a learning pro- after four gruesome season-ending has a lot of pride in what they do,” cess, you know. And I think having injuries with even more enthusiasm Hill said. “As a player, that’s what this weapon now is really intrigu- and fire each time. They aren’t sup- you want and what it’s all about.” ing, because Taysom is so versa- posed to be playing special teams tile, he can do so many things,” and utility work in the NFL while Saints quarterback being listed as a third-string passer. “HAVING THIS told ESPN. “I obviously had a goal to WEAPON NOW Hill headlines a select play (in the NFL) and to make IS REALLY group of current Cougar alum- an impact, but I never expected INTRIGUING. ni in the NFL, including former to contribute the way that I have ” teammates such as Kyle Van been,” Hill said. “At the end of the - Drew Brees Noy (2010–13), Jamaal Williams day, it was all about finding the Quarterback (2012–16) and Fred Warner (2014– right opportunity and the right fit, 17). and I’ve been able to find that (in While listed as the Saints’ “I don’t think being a BYU New Orleans).” third-string quarterback, Hill has alum in the NFL is anything dif- In 37 games over five years magnified his role on the roster, ferent than being in the business (2012-16) at BYU, Hill excelled as returning kicks and serving as world, but it’s something that I a gifted dual-threat quarterback. He a punt gunner on special teams. take seriously,” Hill said. “I think

December 2018 The Y Magazine 23 that as people get to know you and team-oriented guy,” Hill said. “I’ve of not caring about what other peo- realize that you played for BYU had the opportunity to follow his ple think. You’re always going to that there’s an expectation. It’s fun, routine, learn from him, watch have doubters or people that don’t and it creates a lot of great conver- film with him and just observe the necessarily support you or believe sations with my teammates, and it’s way that he prepares for a football in you, but you have to believe in been a good experience for me.” game, which has been the best yourself and have confidence in Serving as the third-stringer learning experience I could have your ability.” to Saints starter Drew Brees, one of asked for.” Mangum hasn’t been sur- the most accomplished gunslingers BYU quarterback Tanner prised with Hill’s impact for the in NFL history and the all-time ca- Mangum stepped in for Hill fol- Saints this season. reer passing yards leader, Hill has lowing an early injury in 2015 and “I don’t think it surprises had plenty of opportunities to learn then served as his backup during anyone who knows him,” Mangum from the legend. the 2016 campaign. Mangum said said. “He’s obviously an unbeliev- New Orleans Saints quarter- he learned a great deal from the able athlete, so it’s awesome to back Taysom Hill (7) celebrates his veteran during their tenure as team- see how the Saints are using him, touchdown with Drew Brees (9) in mates. and it’s fun to watch him succeed. the second half of an NFL foot- “Taysom taught me about When I see him returning kicks or ball game against the Washington dealing with the off-the-field playing special teams and making Redskins in New Orleans, Monday, pressures that come with being a tackles, it’s a testament to how Oct. 8. (AP Photo/Bill Feig) quarterback at BYU,” Mangum athletic and versatile he is.” “Drew is a very routine- and said. “He taught me the importance Hill’s final season in Cougar

24 The Y Magazine December 2018 blue in 2016 was also head coach With Hill’s opportunities on ’s first season on the the field expanding every week At the end of the job, an 8-4 campaign ending with with the Saints, a strong Super a Poinsettia Bowl victory over Bowl contender, the future is “day... My hope is that Wyoming. bright. Hill reflected on his legacy “Coach Sitake made football and how he would like to be re- people remember me about us, and I really appreciated membered by BYU fans. as a guy who went that,” Hill said. “I felt like he was “At the end of the day, my genuine and that every decision he goal as a quarterback at BYU was and left everYthing made was to help us as a team, and to lead by example in the way that out there on the he was genuine in taking care of I prepared and played the game,” us.” Hill said. “My hope is that people field and competed Hill remains a fan-favorite in remember me as a guy who went as hard as Provo and for Cougar fans across and left everything out there on the the country. He is gaining momen- field and competed as hard as he he possibly could. tum as one of the season’s best possibly could, game in and game ” - TAYSOM HILL stories in the NFL as he ‘reps the out.” Y’ for a wider national audience. Photo Credit: AP photo/Bill Feig

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