Nick Robinson signed with the VI Raiders of the BC Football Conference on Saturday, June 1. Head coach Curtis Vizza envisions Robinson as a defensive linemen, who could also get some special teams assignments. (VI Raiders)

By Ian Holmes

Training day

‘He’s a specimen:’ VI Raiders sign raw rookie who exchanged his skates for cleats

Jun 2, 2019 | 6:13 AM

NANAIMO — A lifelong pursuit of competitive hockey is on hold for a Nanaimo athlete who’s turning heads by signing with the VI Raiders to play a sport he’s never tried before.

Nick Robinson, 18, officially signed on the dotted line Saturday to suit up for the Nanaimo-based BC Football Conference squad.

Robinson spent two seasons as a bruising defenceman in the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League split between the Nanaimo Buccaneers and Oceanside Generals.

A Raiders’ coach approached Robinson in the off-season to see if he’d be interested in attending a casual team throw-around.

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The likable Robinson said he was surprised by the invite but saw no harm in showing up to the late March session.

“I’ve been really dedicated to weight-lifting and getting bigger, I really enjoy it. But I found especially this past (hockey) season even though I was a lot stronger and a lot bigger, the mobility did start to hurt me in some aspects.”

The Dover bay Secondary grad is penciled in to play on the Raiders’ defensive line this season. New head coach Curtis Vizza said Robinson may also get some special teams action.

Robinson is now busy training and learning how to make the switch from the ice to the gridiron.

“Whether it’s one-on-one coaching or flag football on the weekends, it just comes down to being prepared to absorb as much information as you can, especially when you’re switching sports.”

Robinson is no stranger to the weight room where he continues to refine his 5’11”, 215 lbs. physique.

He can bench press 315 lbs. and squat an astounding 500 lbs.

Vizza said while some people might wonder why the team committed to Robinson, he said there is plenty of upside in developing what he called a “physically dominant athlete.”

Vizza said Robinson’s powerful physique and tireless work ethic can’t be taught, while the skills needed to play football can be.

“He’s got these big shoulders and arms, he’s strong and physical. Then you put him on the line and teach him how to do the stance properly and watch him come off the ball like a rocket.”

Vizza himself was a competitive hockey player in his youth, who later built a stellar junior football career. Vizza played on all three VI Raiders’ national champion teams as a standout offensive linemen.

The Raiders head coach said he’s floored by Robinson’s commitment to make a successful transition into football.

“He trains literally everyday, there’s not much more we could ever ask out of a young man like that,” Vizza said. “He’s weeks away from getting his first playbook on defence where we can sit down with him and teach him the fundamentals of football.”

Robinson said he’s not sure where his football venture will take him, but said the VI Raiders offered every opportunity for him to succeed.

“It’s a very accepting and nurturing family environment,” Robinson said. “They push everyone to the best of their abilities no matter how far off you are. They are always behind your back.

“I can’t wait to get started.”

ian@nanaimonewsnow.com
On Twitter: @reporterholmes