Pataki Running Wild In The OUA
Jonah Pataki rushing the ball for the Queens University Gaels on Labour Day against the Windsor Lancers – Photo by Dennis Pajot
If his first two games this season with the Queens Gaels football team are any indication, he’ll be surpassing his 2013-2014 totals in short notice, and will soon be establishing himself not just as a top rookie, but as one of the OUA’s elite running backs, period.
“The start has been great. It’s really nice to step into a more serious role in the offence,” says Pataki. “It’s nice to have a place where you are counted on in the close games and having a chance to show what you can do is awesome.”
In his opening week, Pataki ran the ball 14 times, picking up 56-yards to help the Queens Gaels defeat the Windsor Lancers 39-30.
In week two, Pataki became the Gaels’ go to running back, and even played a receiving role at times, responding by putting points on the board. In the second quarter, Billy McPhee threw an 11-yard touchdown pass to Pataki, who scored his first TD of the season. He later added a 2-yard rushing touchdown, and finished the day with 29 carries for 157-yards.
Unfortunately, Queens, who won their opener in Windsor, dropped their second game 37-30 to Ottawa.
While Pataki is off to a quick start, he’s slow to take credit, pointing to his coaches, and offseason training at Athletes’ Fuel in Chatham as keys to his success.
“There hasn’t been a single key but I think it has been a few,” says Pataki about his quick start. “My coaching has been one, they have taught and guided me with patience, because I did mess up,” continued Pataki, noting his fumble against Ottawa.
“And I also would say my offseason, the hard work I put in along with the work my trainer Colin Roezler (owner of Athletes’ Fuel Strength & Conditioning) really helped me step my game up to the next level.”
Pataki will continue his OUA season Saturday, September 13 when they host the Western Mustangs.