When wide receiver Tyson Philpot and running back Jalen Philpot take the field for Team Canada this week against the Team USA Under 18 Selects January 17 in International Bowl IX at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas, they will be continuing a family tradition.
Their father, Cory Philpot, aka “Quick Six”, was an all star running back with the BC Lions (1993-1996) and Winnipeg Blue Bombers, who in 1995 set a then-CFL record for most touchdowns in season with 22. The elder Philpot will be on hand as one of the coaches for Team Canada.
The identical twin brothers have been playing football since the age of six and were standouts on their their high school team, the Seaquam Seahawks in Vancouver.
Tyson Philpot (6) and Jalen Philpot (5)
The twins, both 6’1″, 175 lb, are from Surrey, British Columbia and were selected to represent Canada at the 2018 International Bowl in Arlington, Texas as a part of the National Under-18 team.
The brothers are naturally following he their father’s footsteps. As Tyson said to Football Canada:
“My dad did retire when I was born. But just being around him and all the teams he coached really got me that drive to play football.”
During their careers, the offensive and defensive standouts played on multiple community all-star teams as well as both the Holy Cross Crusaders and Seaquam Seahawks of the British Columbia High School Football Association (BCHSFA).
When he is on the field, Tyson says he tries to emulate NFL great Jerry Rice.
“The way he was able to play – I feel like I have some of the same abilities as him like the route running and being able to go up and get the ball.”
Jalen is definitely excited to be here as he told Grace Kennedy of the BC Local News:
“The level of football is going to be an eye opener. The Americans take their football serious.”
From the moment Tyson learned he made the National Under-18 team, he’s been stoked of having the opportunity to play in the 2018 International Bowl, the biggest event of his career.
“I’m excited and happy to play,” he expressed. “It means a lot and I can’t wait to play with the best in Canada and go head-to-head with Team USA and hopefully come out with the win.”
Needless to say their father, Cory Philpot, is pleased not just for his sons but for all the players on Team Canada:
“It’s a great opportunity for a Canadian boys to be able to come and play on Team Canada versus some of the best u18 US players. It gives the kids an opportunity to shine and give the kids to do great things with their lives. Naturally, the fact that my sons are on the team representing Canada is an extra bonus.”