The Valley Huskers have high hopes this season after finishing 7-3 last year and qualified for the Canadian Bowl playoffs.  They have several players returning this year including receiver Payton Lake, entering his fourth campaign.

A year ago, he made 37 receptions for the Huskers, good for 578 yards and had four touchdowns.  He was dangerous after making the catch as well, averaging 15.6 yards with every reception.  

He is a very coachable player and has no issues taking criticism as he looks to improve upon those numbers from last year.  He will be asked to take on a leadership role and help the younger players progress just as he has.

Lake is very confident in his club this season with his goal of helping his team to an undefeated record.  He feels with the players coming back, the new pieces they have added, along with their experience from last year, they have the team to be able to run the table.

When he looks back to some of his favourite moments during his career, the play that stands out the most is when he scored his first CJFL touchdown.  His Huskers were battling with the Prince George Kodiaks two years ago when he ran an out and up, caught the pass and got into the end zone.  He remembers that incredible feeling of scoring and celebrating with his teammates. 

His most memorable CJFL game was a tilt last season with the VI Raiders.  Following this game was named the BC Conference Offensive Player of the Week.

Lake and the Huskers open their season on July 27th when they host the Kamloops Broncons at Exhibition Field.

Receiver Payton Lake is a CJFL Player to Watch in 2024!