When Chris Van Zeyl showed up at McMaster on the first day of training camp, in a gold Ticats practice jersey, you couldn’t help but notice that it looked a little odd.
The 12 year veteran spent his entire career—save for a short stint on the Alouettes’ practice roster—with the Toronto Argonauts. He was released on the eve of training camp and was quickly snatched up by the Ticats. His addition—coupled with the return of Ryker Matthews—solidified an offensive line that quickly became one of the best in the CFL.
“I’ve been a part of some good offensive lines but this is probably the best I’ve been a part off across the board. You look at our group, all of us could have been all-stars but at the end of the day that’s not up to us.” Said Van Zeyl.
In terms what’s led to his individual success, Van Zeyl says it all comes down to putting in the work.
“I’ve just been playing within the scheme and doing my job, we’re not asked to do anything extraordinary. We prepare in the offseason and do everything to put your best foot forward. At the end of the day it’s just execution.”
June 13, 2019; Hamilton, Ontario, CAN; Hamilton Tiger-Cats defeat the Saskatchewan Roughriders 23-17 in the season opener at Tim Hortons Field. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski
Van Zeyl has been named a CFL All-Star twice in his career and this year, he was named a CFL East All-Star for the sixth time in his career but this is the first time he has been nominated for the Most Outstanding Lineman award. He has been one of the best in the league at his position for the better part of a decade and this would be a great way to recognize a great career as well as a great season.
Competing for the award with Van Zeyl is two-time defending Most Outstanding Lineman, Stanley Bryant. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ offensive tackle is a five time CFL West All-Star and a four time CFL All-Star and has clearly established himself as one of the top offensive linemen in the CFL.
“I’ve been watching Stanley for a long time, he’s consistent and he’s a heck of a tackle. I’ve always respected his game and wish him all the best.” Said Van Zeyl.
A Canadian has not won this award since 2014 when the Stampeders’ Brett Jones took home the award. Should the votes go in his favour, Van Zeyl would be the first player in Tiger-Cats history to be named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Lineman.
“It would obviously mean a lot but I’m looking big picture still. I want to win a bring a Grey Cup back to this city for the first time in 20 years. Personal awards are great but winning the Grey Cup is all I’m focused on right now.”
The winners will be announced at the 2019 Shaw CFL Awards on Nov. 21, during Grey Cup week in Calgary.
Next up: Frankie Williams’ case for Most Outstanding Special Teams Player.