Airdrie native Gabriel Osenda returns home for the summer after continuing to make waves in the football world, earning national recognition as one of the top high school athletes in North America.
Gabriel is the first 5 star ranked player to come out of Western Canada and the second ever to come from all of Canada. A 5 star ranking means that out of college he is projected to be a first round draft pick in the NFL.
After spending the past year honing his skills at the prestigious Baylor Prep School in Chattanooga Tennessee, Gabriel has committed to the University of Tennessee in his Grade 11 year to solidify his place among the next generation of elite college football athletes.
Standing at an impressive 6’8 and 330lbs, Gabriel was a last minute addition to the Navy All American bowl in January. The game was broadcast internationally on NBC where he committed to Tennessee live with his mom (Candice Kolson) and many family and friends watching excitedly from home. His performance on the field earned him a ranking of 5 star from 247 sports, and he has continued to climb the ranks on other platforms and recently won MVP at an Atlanta Rivals camp that now has him ranked in the top 100 players in North America. He is attending their coveted 5 star camp in Indianapolis at the end of the month to compete at an invite only competition.
While home for the summer Gabriel will be training at Smart Start Performance Training Center & Clinic, a gym renowned for its work with elite athletes, including several Canadians now playing at top U.S colleges and in the NFL. The training is part of his focused preparation for his final high school season before he early enrolls at the University of Tennessee in December.
Outside of training, Gabriel will enjoy some well deserved downtime with his mom, sister, family and close friends soaking up quality time in his home town. He and his family are also set to take his official visit to the University of Tennessee June 20th, marking another milestone in his journey.
Gabriel Osenda’s dedication, size and talent have already set him apart- and with his roots in Airdrie and eyes on the NCAA and beyond, the future is looking bright for this rising Canadian Football Star.
Read more about Gabriel in our digital issue of Fall 2023. He’s featured on page 82.
