Bulldogs Gearing Up for Season Opener

The North Bay Bulldogs warm-up during practice at Chippewa S.S. on Thursday evening. Photo by Jazz Mathon.

Story by Jazz Mathon

He may be a rookie in the Northern Football Conference, but quarterback Zach Moreau is eager to show his stuff. The former Widdifield Wildcat pivot replaces seasoned veteran Jason Ferreira. However, Bulldogs head coach Marc Mathon says his rookie will have plenty of back up.

"I think Zach Moreau will fit in well with this system and with the support of Dave Wilson working out at the quarterback as well."

Moreau describes his style as run and gun.

"I'm trying to develop into more of a pocket passer for this league, but if I had to I'd be able to run and throw at the same time," said Moreau.

Other veterans expected to add some punch to offense are receivers Andre Landry and Sterling Bilz. As for the offensive line, Ottawa Gee Gees offensive guard Jean Luc Roy is back for a third season and he is joined by rookie offensive guard A.J. Wendover who coach Mathon expects will have an impact.

"With Jean Luc and myself we should have a strong middle and if we get the whole line together then we should have a strong offensive line, which would be a foundation for our offense," said Wendover.

One of the biggest loses on defence is Mike Gauthier. The former all star is taking to year off to allow his achilles heel to recover.

Another pain the Bulldogs are suffering is the loss of the Sudbury Spartans. The team folded permanently last month and coach Mathon is having a hard time understanding why.

“I'm really disappointed they didn't come together as a team to make it happen, my understanding is that they did have players ready to play, they didn't have as much financial problems as some people think, there was a lot problems internally and unfortunately the purging of those required that they folded and that is really too bad."

Mathon says anyone from Sudbury who wants to play for the Bulldogs should contact the team as soon as possible. So far 45 players have signed up, but the team is still welcoming others who wish to join. The Dogs are now practicing four times a week and have an extra one to prepare for the start of the season since they have a bye during the first week of play. Their first match is at home against the Sarnia Sting on Saturday, June 7th at Rolly Fischer Field.