Combine day is a lifetime of work boiled down into a few hours of testing. At the 2018 CFL Regional Combine in Montreal on Wednesday, the University of Ottawa was well represented by three standout players, running back Bryce Vieira, linebackers Khadim Mbaye and Ricardo Lubin went to work in their hometown, showing the strength of the Gee-Gees program to a national audience.
A dynamic and versatile running back for the Gee-Gees over the last four seasons, Vieira has been perhaps the most well-rounded weapon on the Gee-Gees' roster. The 24-year-old showcased his athleticism and speed, placing himself in the top five performers for the 40 yard dash, shuttle, and three cone drill.
Bryce Vieira Combine results:
40 yard dash - 4.60s
Three cone drill - 7.16s
Shuttle - 4.22s
Broad Jump - 9'5"
Bench press - 15 reps
Lubin, a hard hitting linebacker, has been a key factor to a strong Gee-Gees defence since transferring to uOttawa from McGill. The incredible work he has put in on special teams will further bolster his chances of going pro. Lubin's highlight of the day was in the broad jump where he posted a 9'10.0" jump, good enough for fourth-best of the day.
Ricardo Lubin Combine results:
40 yard dash - 4.85s
3 cone drill - 7.73s
Shuttle - 4.44s
Broad jump - 9'10"
Bench press - 15 reps
The headliner for Gee-Gees coming out of the day was undoubtedly the performance of Mbaye. With an incredible all-around showing, he secured one of four chances to further display his talents, landing himself a spot in the National Combine later this month in Winnipeg on March 23.
Khadim Mbaye Combine results:
40 yard dash - 4.82s
3 cone drill - 7.63s
Shuttle - 4.5s
Broad jump - 9'0"
Bench - 20 reps
"It feels great," said Mbaye following the event. "I'm happy, all the work I've put in during those weeks helped today."
Gee-Gees head coach Jamie Barresi was in attendance and had high praise for his players following their performances.
"They've brought great leadership and have worked very hard," he said. "They are very talented players, they're selfless and have been productive [during their time with the team]."
Mbaye and fellow defensive standout Jackson Bennett will be the Gee-Gees' representatives in Winnipeg, with both looking for their chance to be selected in the CFL Draft, taking place on May 3.
- Robert Greeley
Twitter: @robertgreeley22
