Photo courtesy of WJ Smith Photography

He gained valuable experience as a rookie in 2023, now the Quinte Skyhawks are hoping for a breakout season from running back Jake Venditti.

The speedy ball carrier’s greatest strength is his patience behind the line and his explosiveness to make would-be-tacklers miss.   At 5’6, Venditti uses his size to squeeze through holes opened up by his offensive line and “hide” in the trenches before picking his lane. 

He has laid high expectations on his own shoulders coming into 2024 with a personal goal of becoming an Ontario Conference All-Star.  

Though he’s only going into his second CJFL season Venditti’s favourite play during his rookie campaign came against the GTA Grizzlies where he collected one of his longest runs of the season, carrying multiple defenders as he fought for extra yards.

His most memorable game last season was the first of his CJFL career when his Skyhawks matched up against the Ottawa Sooners.  It didn’t go exactly to plan, but it showed him how challenging and rewarding it is being a running back in the CJFL.

As he prepares for his sophomore season, Venditti and the Skyhawks will open up on Sunday August 18th when they visit the Grizzlies in Toronto. 

Jake Venditti of the Quinte Skyhawks is a CJFL Player to Watch in 2024.