When the 2020 Manitoba Major Junior Football League season was cancelled and the 2021 campaign was up in the air, Kola’s Dusty Siemens was active on the Westman Wolverines’ group chat.
“Dusty was always checking in, asking what the prospects were for the season,” Wolverines head coach Brady Dane said. “His dedication to the team is really unparalleled. He never misses practice, he’s always early, and he brings a positive mindset every day.”
The son of Kelvin and Pat Siemens has been a stalwart presence on the Brandon-based Wolverines for many seasons. The receiver and running back, now in his final season of eligibility, has enjoyed many moments with the team over the years. Siemens is grateful to be able to get back on the gridiron for one last season with the Wolverines after having a campaign wiped out by the COVID-19 pandemic. What did he miss most?
“Basically, everything I’ve missed most about football,” Siemens said. “Being at practice every week, playing in games, hanging out with the boys after games, and the bus rides to and back from Winnipeg for away games.”
Siemens’ love of football and dedication to the team are just some of the reasons why he is a leader for the Wolverines. The squad is not utilizing permanent captains, but rather is rotating a group of veterans, including Siemens, into those spots week to week.
“He leads by example first and foremost, like I said before, by showing up on time, working hard, and taking on any assignment that the team needs,” Dane said. “But he’s also vocal on the sidelines, trying to get the energy up, and keeping things positive, even when we’re struggling on the field.”
Siemens also makes an impact for the Wolverines on the field in various ways. He is utilized at both running back and receiver as well as playing on various special teams. Siemens embraces his different roles.
“I just like being on the field as much a possible trying to help the team win either moving the ball up the field on offence with big runs, catches or having big returns or tackles on special teams,” he said.
There are many reasons why the Wolverines like to have Siemens on the field.
“He’s got a very well-rounded skill set, and a very high level of effort, which allows him to jump into any spot and contribute,” Dane said. “This year, due to some injuries, Dusty has seen more snaps at running back than he did in our previous season, but even before those injuries, his versatility and reliability meant that there was always a role for him on the field.”
During his football playing days, Siemens has had the backing of his parents.
“They’ve supported me big over my football career - being at almost every game and driving me to every practice early on in my football career,” said the former Virden Collegiate Institute gridiron standout who works on his family’s farm.
