Shay White

Athletic Career:

• Did you play in college? If so, what was your recruiting process like, and what challenges or surprises did you encounter?

–  No, I have not played in a college.  In Canada the College football does not have the same recognition and hype as in the US.    I have been playing Semi Pro football with the leagues here in Ontario for 4 years and also played some Arena football in the winter.

• What do you consider your biggest accomplishment in your sports career so far, and why does it stand out to you?

–  My 95 yard pick 6 that I got in Sarnia to take our team to the playoffs (Oakville Longhorns). It stands out to me because when I returned it all the way for the touchdown fire works started going off at the exact time in recognition of Canada Day at that time and my parents being there supporting me and cheering me on. A day I will never forget and a cherished forever memory. 

• What is one of the most important lessons you’ve learned throughout your athletic journey, and how has it shaped you?

–  No matter what happens in life to push forward & reach for my dreams. I’ve always been underestimated and looked upon due to my small build since I started playing football in high school, but no matter what I’ve always believed in myself despite any outcomes I’ve faced in my life whether it’s on or off the football field. Believing in myself and those positive spoken words I’ve said to myself has shaped me into who I am today. 

• How do you mentally prepare for competition, showcases, and games? Do you have any specific routines or rituals?

–  Before every football game or showcase the first thing I do is hug my parents & tell them I love them. Putting positive energy in the atmosphere before a big competition is huge for the mindset. When I’m on my way to the stadium I pump myself up by listening to music and visualizing myself doing well & seeing my team win the football game. As soon I get to the locker room and have my gear settled and organized I pray & meditate and speak to myself with positive thoughts before Kickoff. 

• What has been the biggest challenge of your athletic career, and how did you work through or overcome it?

– The biggest challenge mentally that I’ve ever had to face was sadly losing my best friend & finding out about the news after one of my flag football games I played during the winter season. My best friend had the biggest heart & was always supporting me during the ups & downs, we always pushed each other to not give up & to believe no matter what. When it came to football, he was always cheering me on and wanting me to go far in the big leagues, even would show up to my football games supporting me. I took some time after the news to pray and grieve and to this day I think about my friend often as I play because he wanted me to follow my dreams and be the best version of myself & I always know deep down he is with me all the time in my heart. 

• During times when you’re not performing at your best, how do you find the motivation to keep going?

– I speak to my loved ones and surround myself with positive energy and just focus on the times I have done well. 

Team Dynamics & Leadership:

• How has being part of a team influenced your personal growth and leadership style?

– Being part of a team has shaped my personal growth and leadership abilities in many ways. Although I played soccer for a few years as a youth, I spent 11 years as a Martial Art and although I spent time showing leadership to the younger ones, and was a very good role model to them and a motivator, that is a very individual sport.   Playing football has helped me learn patience, empathy and I so much enjoy the camaraderie that comes with playing football.   I have learned a lot about emotional intelligence and being part of a team.  

• Can you share a moment when you had to step up as a leader, on or off the field? What did you learn from that experience?

– Reading this question as brought me back to a time on the field where one of my teammates didn’t understand the play call, when I noticed I stepped aside with him for a moment to explain and direct him with the play call so he wouldn’t feel stressed about the situation before the play was set. It made me feel proud to be able to assist one of my teammates. 

• In your opinion, what qualities make someone a great teammate?

– In my opinion a great teammate is someone who has great leadership, empathy, motivation, and a strong personality.

• What is one early lesson you learned in your career that has had a lasting impact on your success?

– Reading this question, makes me think of an injury I sustained during a high school football tournament where an opponents helmet dug into my arm causing a gash in my forearm. Immediately after the injury occurred I knew it wasn’t too serious so I continued on for the benefit of my team allowing me to get an interception over a player that was twice my size at that time. The lesson that I learned at that time and still believe today is if you have a strong will you can succeed with anything.

• What role does mental health play in your success as an athlete, and how do you maintain your mental well-being?

– Mental health is huge for an athlete’s success due to having a calm mind under performance or a big event. I maintain my well-being by meditation and mindfulness. Focusing on one positive thing within my mind and thinking it over and over and visualizing myself achieving that one challenge.

• What’s one thing people often misunderstand about what it takes to compete at your level?

– People think it’s easy to play at a high level, but don’t understand the things you have to sacrifice to get to that higher level leagues such as the NFL or CFL.  You have to really push yourself on days you don’t have the motivation to keep training.  You also need to be mentally tough and learn not to take criticism personally.  

• If you could make one positive impact on society, what would it be and why?

– I would want to give to those in need and making sure there is better resources for food and housing for people that are low income or even homeless, because in most cases it’s not their fault that they ended up in those situations. As well, I would send donations to charity foundations and animal shelters. I’ve seen as I’ve grown up how hard people have to struggle in life to get where they want to be and it breaks my heart that more people don’t step up and help those in need.

Your Future:

• What do you hope to prove or demonstrate to scouts at the 2026 National Scouting Combine?

– I hope to prove to anyone who Is watching out there that size doesn’t matter even on the biggest stage. 

• Where do you see yourself five years after your athletic career ends?

– When I retire from my athletic career I want to go into coaching football so that I never leave the game I truly love and admire.

• What legacy do you hope to leave behind in your sport?

– I want my legacy to show others that your size doesn’t matter in any situation, what matters is your heart. If your heart isn’t in it then you won’t be able to achieve it. It’s not the size of the person that matters, it’s the size of their passion.