In one of the most important victories in Westman Wolverines’ history, Kenton’s Cody Hunter was in the middle of the action.
In early September, the son of Kenton’s Mel Hunter and Birtle’s Brenda Hunter made two interceptions, and recovered a fumble for a touchdown on a punt to help lead his team to an 18-3 win over the St. James Rods. It was the Brandon-based team’s first Manitoba Major Junior Football League victory since September of 2015. Hunter was named the MMJHL’s Defensive Player of the Week.
“It was such a team effort to get that win! A win that early in the season really helps pick up momentum that can be carried right through the season,” wrote Hunter, whose Wolverines are 2-2 as of Sept. 19, in a social media interview. “The feeling of all the guys rallying around each other to get the win is really indescribable. It was one of the most exciting football games I’ve ever been a part of and I am honoured to be able to be a part of such a great team effort.”
Three years ago it might have been a little hard to imagine Hunter’s current roles on the Wolverines. He came to the team as a quarterback. However, when he was a rookie Westman had depth at quarterback and a dire need in the defensive backfield. The defensive coaches were immediately asking if Hunter could move to cornerback.
“Cody really embraced that move, without complaint, and with the high level of effort I believe he puts into everything he does. For sure, there have been bumps along the road as he learned a new position … But the type of athlete Cody is, his competitiveness, and his effort have allowed him to really flourish, and this year, Cody has really become a key piece of our defence,” Wolverines head coach Brady Dane wrote in an email interview.
Although he is still likely the team’s de facto backup QB, Hunter has enjoyed playing cornerback.
“I enjoy the ability you have to go and compete with other very good athletes one-on-one,” wrote Hunter, who is studying agroecology at the University of Manitoba. “Covering the opposing team's receivers is a challenge that I look forward to and raises my compete-level to new highs every time. The opportunity to be able to rest if you make a positive play really motives you to work hard each and every down.
“This being my third season and second full season on defence I am now enjoying even more success due to the confidence I have gained after learning the position and I hope to continue to learn and practice to strive to be the best I can be.”
Westman also counts on Hunter on special teams. He is the gunner on the punt team, which means he gets down the field quickly and takes the first shot at the punt returner. In this role, Hunter recovered a Rods fumble for a TD. He also plays on the kickoff coverage team. The Wolverines look to him to be a leader.
“He leads by example, and his effort and dedication to the Wolverines program is above and beyond anything we as a coaching staff could ask for,” Dane wrote.
Throughout Hunter’s football career, he has had the support of his family – including his older brother Shaun. They were Parkwest Outlaw and Wolverine teammates.
“I wouldn’t be playing this sport today if I didn’t have the support I do. Right from the beginning of my career, my parents have been right there, either driving me to games, practices, or camps, or coming themselves just to watch and make sure I know someone is cheering for me.” Says Hunter.
“Shaun has also been a huge help to my football career, being there when I want to talk about the game or just when we want to play catch. The opportunity that we had to play together was truly an honour and I will never forget that. He always wants to know how we did or how the team is looking and is consistently giving me encouragement to keep playing hard and to achieve success. I could not be the player I am without the support of my family.”
